What Immigration Documents Are You Required to Carry? A Guide for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals living in the United States are required by law to carry proof of their lawful status. While many people are aware that they need to maintain valid immigration documents and potentially register per the alien registration requirement, fewer realize that U.S. immigration law also requires foreign nationals to carry certain documents with them at all times as proof of registration with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

In this post, we’ll break down what documents must be carried, who this rule applies to, and what foreign nationals should know to stay in compliance — based on 8 CFR §264.1(b).

Who Is Required to Carry Proof of Registration?

Under U.S. immigration law, almost all foreign nationals over the age of 18 who are in the U.S. for more than 30 days are required to carry valid proof of registration or lawful immigration status. This applies to individuals with both nonimmigrant and immigrant status. You don’t just need to have valid immigration documents, you’re required to carry them with you.

What Immigration Documents Count as Proof of Registration?

The list of acceptable documents is found in 8 CFR §264.1(b). Here are the main categories:

1. Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)

• Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card)
  • This is your green card. It must be carried with you at all times as proof of lawful permanent resident status.

2. Conditional Residents

• Form I-551 with a Conditional Resident Designation
  • Even conditional green cards are subject to the carry requirement.
  • If you have an expired conditional resident card and you have filed the I-751, you should also carry the I-751 receipt notice.

3. Nonimmigrants (Temporary Visa Holders)

• Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) and
• Valid Passport with Visa Stamp (if applicable)
  • If you’re in the U.S. on a temporary visa (like H-1B, F-1, O-1, etc.), your I-94 and passport with the visa stamp show your current status.

4. Individuals with Advance Parole or DACA

• Form I-512 or I-512L (Advance Parole Document)
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued under DACA or similar status
  • These documents confirm lawful presence and certain benefits like travel or work authorization.

5. Asylees and Refugees

• Form I-94 showing asylee or refugee status
• Refugee Travel Document or other DHS-issued documentation
  • These serve as both registration proof and identity verification.

What Happens If You Don’t Carry These Immigration Documents?

Failure to carry proof of registration as required can result in:

• Fines or penalties
• Delays during law enforcement interactions
• Complications in immigration filings or travel

While enforcement may vary, it’s important to understand that this requirement is a legal obligation, not just a recommendation.

Best Practices for Staying Compliant

• Make clear copies of your key immigration documents.
• Carry originals as required (especially your green card or I-94).
• Use a safe, secure method for carrying documents — like a wallet insert or passport pouch.
• Avoid laminated or damaged documents. Replacements can be requested through USCIS.

If you’re unsure which documents apply to your specific status, speak with an immigration attorney for tailored guidance.

If you are not yet a Sumner Immigration Law client and you’re looking for an experienced, empathetic, and efficient team to help you navigate the process with confidence, please contact us today to set up your initiation consultation to get the process started! You can set an appointment online. You can also call us at 804-214-7870 or send us an email at info@sumnerimmigration.com. We are immigration lawyers in Richmond, VA but we serve clients throughout the U.S. and around the world. For more information on our firm visit Who We Are and What Makes Us Different! We look forward to hearing from you!

As always, the above information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Please speak with a qualified immigration lawyer before taking action.