When applying for U.S. permanent residency or a green card, one of the key steps in the immigration process is completing the USCIS medical exam. This exam is designed to ensure that applicants meet the health-related requirements set by the U.S. government. It plays a crucial role in protecting public health by screening for communicable diseases and ensuring that immigrants are up to date on required vaccinations.

What Is the USCIS Medical Exam?

The USCIS medical exam is a mandatory health screening for individuals applying for certain U.S. immigration benefits, such as adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

The exam must be performed by a designated civil surgeon, a physician approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The purpose of the exam is to identify medical conditions that could affect your eligibility for immigration, such as:

·        Communicable diseases like tuberculosis (TB) or syphilis.

·        Lack of required vaccinations.

·        Physical or mental health disorders with associated harmful behavior.

·        Drug or substance abuse issues.

Why the USCIS Medical Exam Is Important

This exam ensures that all immigrants entering or staying in the U.S. meet health requirements established by law. Without a completed and approved exam, your immigration application cannot move forward.

Additionally, the medical exam:

·        Helps prevent the spread of certain contagious diseases.

·        Ensures individuals are protected with necessary vaccinations.

·        Provides an official record of your health for immigration purposes.

How to Find a Designated Civil Surgeon

You cannot visit just any doctor for this exam. The physician must be authorized by USCIS. To find a civil surgeon near you:

1.     Visit the USCIS website and use their "Find a Doctor" tool.

2.     Enter your ZIP code to locate approved physicians in your area.

3.     Call ahead to confirm availability, fees, and what forms or identification they require.

Choosing an authorized doctor is critical because USCIS will not accept exam results from an unauthorized provider.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Bringing the correct documents will help your exam go smoothly. Here’s a checklist of essential items:

·        Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or state ID).

·        Vaccination records showing your immunization history.

·        Form I-693, the official USCIS medical exam form (the doctor will complete and seal this).

·        Payment for the exam (ask ahead about accepted payment methods).

·        List of current medications and details about ongoing health conditions.

·        Medical records related to significant illnesses, surgeries, or chronic conditions.

·        Eyeglasses or contact lenses if you wear them.

If you don’t have vaccination records, don’t worry. The civil surgeon can perform blood tests to determine which vaccinations you need.

Vaccination Requirements

USCIS requires certain vaccines to protect both applicants and the public. The required vaccines may include:

·        Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

·        Polio

·        Tetanus and Diphtheria (Tdap)

·        Hepatitis B

·        Varicella (Chickenpox)

·        Influenza (Flu shot)

·        COVID-19 vaccine

Your civil surgeon will review your records and administer any missing vaccinations during the exam.

What to Expect During the Exam

The USCIS medical exam is straightforward, and most appointments last between 30 minutes to an hour. Here’s what usually happens:

1.     Medical History Review

o   The doctor will ask questions about your past and current health, including any chronic illnesses, surgeries, or mental health concerns.

2.     Physical Examination

o   The physician will perform a head-to-toe physical exam to check for any health issues.

3.     Laboratory Tests

o   A blood test and urine test are required to screen for communicable diseases such as syphilis and gonorrhea.

o   A TB (tuberculosis) test will also be performed, either through a skin test or a blood test.

4.     Vaccination Review and Updates

o   If you’re missing any required vaccines, they’ll be administered during this visit.

5.     Completion of Form I-693

o   The doctor will fill out the required USCIS form, place it in a sealed envelope, and give it to you.

o   Important: Do not open this envelope! USCIS will only accept it if it’s sealed by the civil surgeon.

Tips for a Smooth Exam

To ensure your exam goes well, follow these preparation tips:

·        Schedule early to avoid delays in your immigration application.

·        Bring complete records to prevent duplicate vaccinations or tests.

·        Be honest about your health history; providing false information can jeopardize your application.

·        Avoid certain medications that may interfere with lab results if advised by your doctor.

·        Follow instructions carefully regarding fasting or special preparation for tests.

After the Exam

Once your exam is complete:

·        Review your copy of Form I-693 for accuracy before the doctor seals it.

·        Submit the sealed envelope to USCIS along with your green card application.

·        Keep a copy of your vaccination record for your personal files.

Conclusion

The USCIS medical exam is a crucial part of the U.S. immigration process. By preparing ahead of time, gathering the necessary documents, and understanding what to expect, you can complete this step smoothly and confidently.