NSEERS Reregistration from November 15, 2003
Posted Nov 14, 2003

The National Security Entry-Exit Registration System (NSEERS) or special registration program was originally implemented on November 15, 2002. Those who are subject to NSEERs special registration must reregister annually. There is a twenty-day window to reregister for those who last used the "call-in" registration process. These individuals are allowed to reregister up to 10 days before the anniversary of the initial registration, but no later than 10 days after the registration anniversary. If one originally registered at the Port of Entry (POE), s/he must reregister within 10 days of the anniversary date of entering the U.S. Readers of the MurthyBulletin and MurthyDotCom who were subject to NSEERs are advised to check the dates of their registrations now and plan accordingly.

Ongoing NSEERS Requirements

Annual reregistration should be completed at the nonimmigrant’s designated government immigration office. In additional to annual reregistration, those subject to NSEERS special registration must complete an AR-11SR form within 10 days of any change in address, school, or employer. This form is available from USCIS through MurthyDotCom.

Those who completed special registration may exit only from select ports and must report to an immigration officer for departure registration. Those subject to special registration who enter at a POE must report to a designated government immigration office for a follow-up interview within 30 to 40 days of initial entry. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has assumed responsibility for the NSEERS program, so interviews and reregistration will likely occur at their offices. Failure to follow these rules may result in removal proceedings, criminal charges, and withholding of immigration benefits.

Preparing for Reregistration

One's passport, I-94 card, government-issued identification, and proof of residence should be taken to reregistration. When reregistering, it is best to arrive prepared and with documents proving that lawful status is being maintained; an employer letter and pay stubs for an H1B status holder, for example. Further, if one is going without an attorney, a friend, relative, colleague, or someone should be informed that one is going for special registration, should the government detain the person.

Reregistration May Not Be Required for LPRs

Since special registration applies only to nonimmigrants, persons who obtained lawful permanent resident (LPR) status since first registering, should not be required to reregister. It is advisable, however, to confirm that the government has proper documentation of the new status before failing to appear for reregistration. In some cases, it may be safest to use an immigration attorney to assist with this process.