Are you applying for the Green Card in the USA? If so, you must complete the requirements for the immigration medical exam. This is an essential step that no one can skip when applying for a green card. Your body screening is conducted using several tests to identify specific medical conditions relevant to U.S. immigration law.
Whether you are applying via family petition, employment-base sponsorship, or asylum, this examination is mandatory. After that, you will be eligible for a US green card. If you are planning for the same, then this post is for you.Â
Walk through this piece of writing to understand the immigration medical exam, including the required I-693 document, what to expect during your visit, and tips to help you prepare. So, stay tuned!
Know About Immigration Medical Examination
The immigration medical examination is a crucial part of the U.S. green card process. This examination is structured to assess the health of applicants and ensure they do not have illnesses that could pose a threat to public safety or result in disqualification under immigration law.
A USCIS-designated civil surgeon must perform it and include a review of your medical history, a physical examination, mandated vaccinations, and testing for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea.Â
The examination results are documented on i693 form, which is then submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of your green card application. This is a necessary part of the Green Card process and application.Â
It is not designed to deny immigrant applications, but rather is a primary necessity for maintaining public health standards in the USA. However, good preparation can reduce stress during the exam and help you avoid issues that may delay or cause the denial of your green card application.
Tips to Get Ready for the Medical Exam
It is essential to remain prepared for the medical examination to avoid delays in your green card application process. This is an essential examination to verify your health according to the US health standards, along with the required vaccination history. So, we will discuss some key tips that will help you to be ready for the immigration medical exam. Have a glance:
Find a USCIS-Approved Civil Surgeon
Schedule your test with a doctor authorized by USCIS. Only these physicians are authorized to complete the examination and sign Form I-693.
Bring a Valid Government-Issued ID
Acceptable IDs include a passport, driver’s license, or national ID card with a photo. So, bring any of them that are valid.
Carry Your Medical Records
These include vaccination history, records of past illnesses or treatments, and documentation of any chronic conditions.
Get Vaccination Records Ready
Ensure your immunization record is up to date. Missing vaccines may be administered during the exam. Primarily, this record includes:Â
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Hepatitis B
- Influenza (during the flu season)
- COVID-19
Bring Form I-693 (Blank)
Download the latest i693 form from the USCIS website. Do not sign it before your appointment; sign it in front of the doctor.
Know Your Health History
Be prepared to discuss your physical and mental health with the doctor. Please don’t hesitate to disclose any medications you are currently taking. The civil surgeon will conduct a routine physical examination that includes:
- Measuring height, weight, and blood pressure
- Checking ears, eyes, nose, throat, heart, lungs, and abdomen
- Testing reflexes and skin health
- Asking questions about your mental and emotional well-being
Avoid Alcohol or Heavy Meals Before Testing
For accurate lab results, avoid alcohol or heavy meals the night before. Take light food, fruits, etc. This will help you get better test results.Â
Be Ready for TB and STI Testing
All applicants 2 years and older will be tested for tuberculosis. Adults 18–44 will also be screened for STIs like syphilis and gonorrhea.
Dress Comfortably
You’ll undergo a physical exam, so wear clothing that is easy to remove or adjust. Do not wear tight-fitting clothes.Â
How to Complete the Form I-693 and Submit the Results for the Medical Test?
Form I-693 is the official Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. After completing the exam, the civil surgeon will fill in the form, document the findings, and place the completed form into a sealed envelope.Â
This sealed envelope must be submitted to USCIS; the candidate can not open it. An unsealed form may be considered invalid. You may also receive a copy of the completed form for your records, which is helpful if you want to double-check everything is in order before submitting.
Depending on your application status, you may submit the I-693 in one of two ways:
- Concurrent Filing: If you haven’t filed your Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) yet, you can include the sealed I-693 with your green card application.
- Later Submission: If you’ve already filed your Form I-485, you can bring the sealed envelope to your USCIS interview or send it when requested.
Bonus Tip: USCIS prefers that the I-693 be submitted within 60 days of the doctor’s signature and that it remains valid for up to 2 years from the date of the doctor’s signature.
Closing Thoughts
The immigration medical exam plays a crucial role in your Green Card journey. To make this process smooth, it is essential to be prepared with the right and positive mindset, proper documentation, and adequate preparation. From choosing a USCIS-designated civil surgeon to organizing your medical history and vaccination records, every step matters.
If the candidate’s medical history and vaccination records match the USA health standards, then eligible applicants move forward.Â
Make your appointment early, stay organized, and follow the civil surgeon’s instructions closely. Completing this process accurately and on time brings you one step closer to achieving your dream of becoming a permanent resident in the United States.
