Ghanaians living in the United States—whether they are students, workers, or visitors—are being urged to comply with a new U.S. immigration rule. This regulation requires all foreign nationals to register with the authorities and carry proof of their legal status at all times. The rule comes in response to a directive from an executive order by former President Donald Trump, which is now being enforced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The new rule went into effect last Friday and applies to all non-U.S. citizens aged 18 and older, including individuals from Ghana, Nigeria, and other African countries. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), everyone classified as a “foreign national” (or “alien” according to U.S. law) must carry proof of their legal status—such as a Green Card, visa documents, or the I-94 entry record—at all times.
Who Needs to Register?
- All non-citizens aged 18 and above
- Visitors, students, workers, Green Card holders
- Canadians staying more than 30 days
- Parents of children under 14 must register them too
Children under 14 must be registered by their parents or guardians. Once they turn 14, they are required to re-register and undergo biometric processing (fingerprinting) within 30 days. Even those who have previously registered are being advised to update their information using the new online system. A new form, G-325R, must be completed, and biometric data will be collected unless exempted.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Failure to comply with the rule could lead to:
- Fines
- Misdemeanor charges
- Possible jail time
- Random checks by police or immigration officers
The law now allows even local law enforcement, such as traffic police, to ask foreign nationals for proof of registration or legal status.
Legal Experts Urge Ghanaians to Take Action
Immigration lawyers in the U.S. are warning that this is not a rule to take lightly. “For Ghanaian and Nigerian nationals in particular, this is not a rule to ignore,” said an immigration attorney in New York. “If you’ve been in the U.S. for more than 30 days and don’t have your papers in order, you could face serious consequences.”
Steps You Must Take
- Register Online – Fill out Form G-325R on the USCIS website.
- Get Biometric Screening – Attend fingerprinting if required.
- Carry Your Papers – Always have your Green Card, visa, or I-94 with you.
- Register Your Children – Do this before they turn 14, and re-register them once they do.
Ghanaians in the U.S. are strongly encouraged to consult immigration experts, stay updated on legal requirements, and take immediate steps to comply with the new rules
By: Kobina Welsing
