Navigating the U.S. visa process involves many steps, one of which is the immigration medical exam. Immigration exams are a mandatory part of the application for most individuals seeking to adjust their status to a permanent resident or for certain other visa applicants. The results are a key component of the application package submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Here is more information about this type of medical exam:
Protecting Public Health
The primary purpose of the immigration medical exam is to protect public health. The examination screens for specific communicable diseases that could pose a risk to the general population. During the assessment, the Civil Surgeon may review your medical history and conduct a physical examination.
This process helps identify individuals with certain health conditions that are deemed inadmissible. The screening is a standard procedure for applicants. The goal is to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases within the United States, which is a longstanding aspect of immigration law.
Complying with Regulations
Completing immigration exams is a matter of regulatory compliance. USCIS regulations require applicants to undergo this specific medical evaluation to determine if they meet the health-related standards for admissibility. This exam must be performed by a physician specifically designated by USCIS as a Civil Surgeon. The government establishes these requirements, and all applicants must comply with them. The Civil Surgeon follows strict guidelines to conduct the exam.
Getting Vaccinations
A review of your vaccination history is a standard part of the medical exam. Applicants are required to be up-to-date on a list of specific vaccinations to be eligible for adjustment of status. The required vaccines protect against diseases such as:
- Mumps, measles, rubella
- Polio
- Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids
- Pertussis
- Hepatitis A and B
- COVID-19
You will need to provide your vaccination records to the Civil Surgeon. If your records are incomplete or you are missing required immunizations, you may receive them during your medical appointment. This part of the process aligns with U.S. public health standards.
Obtaining I-693
Upon completion of the medical exam, the Civil Surgeon will typically complete Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This document contains the results of your examination. The physician must place the completed form in a sealed envelope.
You should not open this envelope. It must remain sealed when you submit it with your immigration application. The sealed envelope shows USCIS that the form has not been tampered with and is an official record from the Civil Surgeon. Submitting a properly completed and sealed I-693 is a necessary part of your application.
Get Immigration Exams Today
The immigration medical exam is a procedural step in the path toward residency. It addresses public health concerns and fulfills regulatory requirements set by the U.S. government. From physical assessment to vaccination verification, each component is designed to meet specific legal standards. Securing a completed Form I-693 from a designated Civil Surgeon allows you to move forward with your application. If you are ready to complete your medical examination, schedule an appointment with a doctor to begin the process.
