Under Section 264(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), “every alien, eighteen years of age and over, shall at all times carry with him and have in his personal possession any certificate of alien registration or alien registration receipt card issued to him.”
Recent Policy Developments
Recent developments under the current administration have brought renewed attention to the rule and its potential consequences for lawful permanent residents.
DHS guidance now explicitly states that all adults subject to registration must carry their evidence of registration at all times. Agencies including Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have reiterated this position through public statements and advisories.
A violation of this provision constitutes a misdemeanor. In 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) clarified that the general federal penalty provisions apply, authorizing fines up to $5,000 and/or up to 30 days’ imprisonment.
What Lawful Permanent Residents Should Be Aware Of
- Carry your Form I-551 (Permanent Residence Card) or other registration evidence with you at all times.
- Individuals who have not received official proof of registration may obtain documentation through Form G-325R.
- Keep digital copies for your records, but note that electronic images do not satisfy the statutory “carry” requirement.
- Be aware that failure to comply may result in fines or misdemeanor charges under current DHS interpretation.