The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires many applicants for green cards or certain visas to complete a medical examination. This step ensures that individuals entering or adjusting their status in the U.S. meet the country’s health and vaccination standards. While the thought of a medical exam may feel intimidating, understanding the process can make it straightforward and stress-free.

What Is the USCIS Medical Exam?

The USCIS medical exam is an official health assessment conducted by a USCIS-approved doctor, known as a civil surgeon. For applicants outside the U.S., the exam is performed by a panel physician approved by the U.S. Department of State.

The purpose of this exam is to confirm that you do not have any medical conditions that would make you inadmissible to the United States. This includes infectious diseases that pose a public health risk, lack of required vaccinations, or certain mental or physical disorders associated with harmful behavior.

Who Needs a USCIS Medical Exam?

You will likely need this exam if you are applying for:

·        A green card (adjustment of status within the U.S.)

·        An immigrant visa from outside the U.S.

·        Certain types of non-immigrant visas, depending on USCIS requirements

It’s a mandatory part of the process for most permanent residency applicants and must be completed before USCIS will approve your case.

What Does the USCIS Medical Exam Include?

The USCIS medical exam covers a range of checks to ensure applicants meet health-related immigration requirements. While details may vary slightly, most exams include the following:

1. Review of Medical History

The doctor will ask questions about your medical history, surgeries, chronic conditions, medications, substance use, and mental health. Honesty is crucial—providing false information can lead to complications in your application.

2. Physical Examination

A head-to-toe exam will be performed, checking vital signs, vision, hearing, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and overall health.

3. Vaccination Verification

You must show proof of having received required vaccines such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), tetanus, pertussis, influenza, hepatitis B, and COVID-19. If you’re missing any vaccines, the civil surgeon may administer them during the exam.

4. Laboratory Tests

·        Tuberculosis (TB) test: All applicants two years and older must undergo TB screening.

·        Blood tests: May include screenings for syphilis or other conditions.

·        Urine tests: Required in certain cases.

5. Mental Health Evaluation

The doctor will assess your mental health, looking for conditions linked to harmful behaviors or potential risks.

How to Prepare for the USCIS Medical Exam

Proper preparation will make the process smoother and help avoid delays. Here’s what you should bring and do:

·        Government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate if applicable)

·        Vaccination records or immunization history

·        Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) if you are applying inside the U.S.—the civil surgeon will complete and seal it

·        Medical history documents, including prescriptions, surgical records, or treatment notes for chronic conditions

·        Payment for the exam (fees vary by clinic and location, as USCIS does not set a standard price)

Tip: If you don’t have complete vaccination records, the civil surgeon can order tests or administer vaccines during the appointment.

What to Expect on the Day of the Exam

1.     Check-In: You’ll provide identification and any documents you brought with you.

2.     Medical History Review: The doctor will ask questions and review your records.

3.     Physical and Laboratory Tests: Depending on your age and health, you may undergo blood work, a TB test, and other necessary screenings.

4.     Vaccinations: If you need additional vaccines, they will be administered.

5.     Completion of Form I-693: For applicants in the U.S., the civil surgeon will seal your form in an envelope. Do not open it—you must submit it unopened to USCIS.

After the USCIS Medical Exam

·        Inside the U.S. (Green Card Applicants): You’ll receive a sealed envelope with your completed Form I-693. Submit this directly to USCIS with your application or at your interview.

·        Outside the U.S. (Immigrant Visa Applicants): The panel physician will provide results directly to the U.S. embassy or consulate, or give you instructions on what to bring to your visa interview.

Your medical exam results are generally valid for two years, but timing is important. Make sure the exam is scheduled close enough to your application submission or interview so results remain valid throughout your case.

Conclusion

The USCIS medical exam is an essential step in the immigration process, ensuring applicants meet the health requirements for entry or residency in the United States. While it may seem daunting, being prepared and knowing what to expect can make it a straightforward process.