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If you're applying for a green card in the United States, one of the essential steps in the process is completing a medical examination and submitting Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This requirement ensures that applicants meet health-related standards set by U.S. immigration law. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the medical examination process, the required vaccines, and the updated submission requirements effective December 2, 2024.

Form I-693 is completed by a designated civil surgeon after you undergo a medical examination. The form certifies that you do not have any health conditions that would make you inadmissible to the United States under immigration law. These health-related grounds include certain communicable diseases, physical or mental disorders associated with harmful behavior, drug abuse or addiction, and lack of required vaccinations.

• The table lists the vaccines required under U.S. immigration law, such as:

  • DT/DTP/DTaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

  • Polio (OPV/IPV)

  • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

  • Hib (Haemophilus Influenzae Type B)

  • Hepatitis B

  • Varicella

  • Pneumococcal

  • Influenza (required during flu season)

  • COVID-19

  • Others based on CDC guidelines.

• Vaccination History:

  • The civil surgeon transfers your vaccination history from written records into the appropriate columns.

  • If you don’t have complete records or are missing any required vaccines, the civil surgeon may administer the missing vaccines during your exam.

• Completion Status:

  • The surgeon will mark the series as complete, specify any contraindications, or note if a waiver is needed (e.g., for age-appropriateness or medical reasons).

• COVID-19 Vaccine:

  • Specific instructions are provided for the COVID-19 vaccine, including listing the vaccine brand in the remarks section.

• Waivers:

  • For certain medical or timing reasons, applicants may qualify for a blanket waiver, which is noted in the last column.

• Copy for the Applicant:

  • The form instructs the civil surgeon to give you a copy of the completed vaccination record for your records.

Finding a Civil Surgeon

A civil surgeon is a doctor authorized by USCIS to perform immigration medical examinations. To find a civil surgeon near you:

1. Use the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator Tool:Visit the USCIS website and enter your zip code to find a list of certified civil surgeons in your area.

2. Check Reviews and Call for Pricing:Not all civil surgeons charge the same fees for the medical exam, so it’s a good idea to compare prices and reviews.

3. Prepare for the Appointment:Bring government-issued identification, vaccination records, and a list of medications or medical conditions you may have.

   
   

   

   
   
   
   

New Rule Starting December 2, 2024

Starting December 2, 2024, USCIS has introduced a new policy requiring applicants in certain green card categories to submit the sealed Form I-693 together with their Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status). This change is aimed at streamlining the adjudication process and reducing delays caused by requesting medical forms later in the process.

To comply with this rule:

• Schedule your medical exam early to ensure you receive your sealed Form I-693 on time.

• Do not open the sealed envelope provided by the civil surgeon; it must remain sealed for submission to USCIS.

• If you are filing your I-485 application after December 2, 2024, ensure that Form I-693 is included in the same package.

For those completing the required medical examination for Form I-693, I highly recommend Dr. Anthony Blau, a USCIS Designated Civil Surgeon with over 25 years of experience assisting green card applicants. Dr. Blau’s clinic, Green Card Medical Exams, is located conveniently in New York City and specializes in providing quick and efficient immigration medical examinations.

Clinic Address:305 Broadway, Suite 444(Between Duane St. and Thomas St.)New York, NY 10007

Phone: (212) 766-4433

Open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

1. Bring the following:

   • Proof of required vaccinations, such as MMR, Tdap, COVID-19, Hepatitis B, Varicella, and others outlined by USCIS guidelines.

   • If you do not have records, the clinic may need to administer missing vaccines during your visit.

2. Medical History:

   • Any relevant medical records, including details about past illnesses, surgeries, or chronic conditions.

   • A list of current medications and known allergies.

3. Government-Issued ID:

   • Bring a valid passport, green card, or other identification for verification.

Being prepared not only ensures a smoother experience but also reduces the likelihood of additional visits. The clinic staff will review your records, provide any missing vaccinations, and complete your Form I-693 efficiently—typically within 2–3 business days.

For more details or questions about what documentation to bring, contact the clinic directly at (212) 766-4433. Remember, the more prepared you are, the quicker your medical exam process will be!