Starting April 11, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduced a new biometric registration rule that stirred confusion among foreign nationals residing in the U.S. However, immigration experts have clarified that this update primarily affects undocumented immigrants, not those with valid visas or legal status.

Here’s a complete breakdown of what this means for Indian families, visa holders, and green card holders in the United States.

🧬 What Is the New Biometric Requirement?

The new Form G-325R is at the heart of this rule. It is an online biometric registration form designed to collect fingerprint and identification data from individuals without legal immigration status in the U.S.

If you are in the U.S. legally — as a student, worker, tourist, or permanent resident — you are most likely already registered and do not need to take any immediate action.

✅ Who Is Already Considered Registered?

If you have an I-94 record (proof of lawful entry), you’re considered registered. This includes:

  • H-1B Workers

  • F-1 International Students

  • B-1/B-2 Tourists or Business Travelers

  • L-1, O-1, TN, and other non-immigrant visa holders

You can check your I-94 record online at: www.cbp.gov/i94

Children under 14 who entered the U.S. legally and have I-94s are also considered registered.

📌 Special Case: Children Turning 14 on Dependent Visas

If your child is on a dependent visa and is turning 14, they must complete biometric re-registration within 30 days of their birthday.

Applicable Dependent Visa Types:

  • H-4 (dependent of H-1B)

  • L-2 (dependent of L-1)

  • TD (dependent of TN)

  • R-2 (dependent of religious workers)

  • B-2 (tourist visa)

Steps Required:

  1. File Form G-325R online

  2. Submit biometric data (fingerprints)

  3. Create and use a USCIS online account in the child’s name

🟩 What About Green Card Holders Turning 14?

Children under 14 with permanent resident status must file Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) within 30 days of their 14th birthday.

💵 Filing Fee Rules:

  • No Fee if the current Green Card expires after age 16

  • Fee Required if it expires before age 16

📋 Summary Table: Actions Based on Status

Category Action Required Deadline
Visa holders with valid I-94 No action needed N/A
Children under 14 with I-94 Already registered N/A
Children turning 14 on H-4, L-2, TD, etc. File G-325R & submit biometrics Within 30 days of turning 14
Green Card holders turning 14 File Form I-90 Within 30 days of turning 14

🔒 Final Word

This biometric rule by USCIS mainly targets undocumented immigrants and is not intended to impact legal visa holders or green card holders. The confusion it caused is understandable, but rest assured — most legal immigrants are already compliant through their I-94 registrations.

To avoid misinformation, always check updates on the official USCIS website or consult with a licensed immigration attorney.