Navigating Your Path
to Possibilities: US
Immigration Attorney
to Possibilities: US
Immigration Attorney
Medical Exam for Immigration
Understanding the Immigration Medical Exam
If you’re applying for a U.S. Green Card, whether through family sponsorship, employment, or asylum, you must undergo an immigration medical examination as required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This medical exam ensures that you meet the health-related requirements for lawful permanent residency.
At the Law Offices of Oksana Van Rooy, our experienced immigration attorney is here to guide you through the process and ensure you meet all USCIS medical requirements without unnecessary delays.
Who Needs the Medical Exam?
Most Green Card applicants must complete the medical exam, including those applying through:
- Family-based immigration (spouse, parents, children, or siblings of U.S. citizens or green card holders)
- Employment-based Green Cards
- Asylum or refugee status adjustment
- Diversity Visa Lottery winners
Certain nonimmigrant visa applicants may also be required to take a medical exam based on their case.
What to Expect During the Medical Exam
A USCIS-designated civil surgeon (for applicants within the U.S.) or a panel physician (for applicants abroad) will conduct the exam, which typically includes:
- Physical Examination – General health checkup, including vital signs, weight, and medical history review
- Vaccinations – USCIS requires specific vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), tetanus, hepatitis B, and others
- Testing for communicable diseases like tuberculosis (TB) and syphilis
- Chest X-ray (if needed) – For applicants testing positive for tuberculosis
- Blood Tests – Screening for certain infectious diseases
- Form I-693 Completion – The doctor will complete Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, which must be submitted to USCIS.
COVID-19 Vaccination
Effective January 22, 2025, USCIS no longer requires COVID-19 vaccination.
When to Submit Form I-693
Effective December 2, 2024, if you are required to submit Form I-693, or a partial form I-693 (such as the Vaccination Record), you must submit it with your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Otherwise, USCIS may reject your Form I-485.
I-693 Validity Period
Effective April 4, 2024, any form I-693 that was properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, does not expire. You can use it indefinitely as evidence that you are not inadmissible on health-related grounds.
Common Reasons for Medical Inadmissibility
Some health-related conditions can make an applicant inadmissible to the U.S., including:
- Communicable diseases of public health significance (e.g., tuberculosis, syphilis, gonorrhea)
- Drug abuse or addiction
- Failure to meet required vaccinations
- Mental health conditions linked to harmful behavior
If you’re concerned about medical inadmissibility, our attorney can help you explore possible waivers or legal options.
How Our Immigration Attorney Can Help
Navigating the green card medical exam process can be confusing. Our dedicated immigration lawyer at the Law Offices of Oksana Van Rooy provides:
- Personalized Guidance – We help you understand medical requirements and ensure you’re fully prepared
- Doctor Referrals – Assistance in finding a USCIS-approved doctor near you
- Application Review – Ensuring your Form I-693 is properly completed and submitted on time
- Waiver Assistance – If you have a medical condition that may cause inadmissibility, we explore legal options to overcome barriers.
Helpful Links
Get Legal Help for Your Immigration Process
If you have questions about the medical examination for immigration or need assistance with your immigration case, our team at the Law Offices of Oksana Van Rooy is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and ensure your immigration process goes smoothly!