USCIS Medical Exam
May 29, 2025

USCIS Medical Exam: What to Expect and How to Prepare

If you’re applying for a U.S. green card or adjusting your immigration status, one essential requirement is completing a USCIS medical exam. This exam ensures that all applicants are free from communicable diseases and are medically fit to reside in the United States. While the idea of a medical examination might seem intimidating, being informed and well-prepared can help make the process smooth and stress-free.

What Is the USCIS Medical Exam?

The USCIS medical exam, officially known as Form I-693: Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is a health assessment required for most immigration applicants. It must be conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon or panel physician (for those applying from outside the U.S.).

The purpose of the exam is to:

  • Identify any public health risks
  • Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date
  • Check for physical or mental conditions that could affect admissibility

Who Needs the USCIS Medical Exam?

You are typically required to complete the USCIS medical exam if you are:

  • Applying for a green card (lawful permanent residency) within the United States
  • Undergoing adjustment of status
  • Seeking certain refugee or asylum statuses
  • An immigrant visa applicant processing from abroad (exam done by a panel physician)

Even children may need to undergo a medical exam depending on age and immigration category.

When to Schedule the Medical Exam

You can schedule the exam before or after submitting your adjustment of status (Form I-485). However, USCIS recommends that the exam be completed close to the time of application submission or interview to avoid delays.

Pro Tip: The results of your medical exam are valid for two years as long as the I-693 is properly signed by a civil surgeon and submitted within 60 days of the exam date.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Before going to your appointment, gather the following documents:

  1. Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
  2. Form I-693, printed and uncompleted (the civil surgeon fills it out)
  3. Vaccination records (translated to English if needed)
  4. Medical history and list of medications
  5. Health insurance card (if applicable; the exam is not always covered)
  6. Payment (ask the clinic about fees beforehand)

What Happens During the USCIS Medical Exam?

The exam includes several components:

1. Physical Examination

The civil surgeon will perform a basic physical check-up that includes:

  • Height and weight
  • Blood pressure and pulse
  • Vision and hearing
  • Heart and lung function
  • Skin and lymph node inspection
  • Abdomen and external genital exam (in some cases)

2. Mental Health Evaluation

The doctor assesses your cognitive state and checks for signs of mental health conditions that may require reporting under immigration guidelines.

3. Tuberculosis (TB) Testing

Applicants ages 2 and older are tested for TB. This may include:

  • IGRA blood test (preferred method)
  • Chest X-ray if test results are positive

4. Vaccination Verification

You must be vaccinated against diseases required by U.S. immigration law, including:

  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Influenza (seasonal)
  • Tetanus
  • Varicella (chickenpox)
  • COVID-19

If you’re missing any vaccines, the doctor will administer them or schedule follow-up shots.

5. Syphilis and Gonorrhea Testing

Applicants aged 15 and older are required to undergo these tests through a urine or blood sample.

After the Exam: What Happens Next?

Once the exam is completed:

  • The civil surgeon fills out Form I-693 and seals it in an envelope. Do not open this envelope.
  • Submit the sealed I-693 to USCIS either with your green card application or bring it to your interview.

You may also request a copy of the completed form for your records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Using a non-authorized doctor – Only USCIS-designated civil surgeons or panel physicians can conduct valid exams.
  2. Submitting an unsigned or unsealed I-693 – This will lead to rejection or delay.
  3. Not bringing vaccine records – This can lead to unnecessary extra doses or delays.
  4. Delaying the exam – This may affect your immigration timeline.

How Much Does the USCIS Medical Exam Cost?

Costs vary by provider and location but typically range from $200 to $500. This may not include additional charges for vaccines or lab work. Always ask about the full cost in advance.

Note: Most health insurance plans do not cover immigration medical exams, as they are not considered medically necessary under standard policies.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

  • Book early: Appointments can fill up quickly, especially during busy immigration seasons.
  • Bring all documentation: This includes medical records and your I-693.
  • Follow instructions: If TB testing requires a follow-up, complete it promptly.
  • Don’t open the envelope: USCIS will not accept a tampered I-693 form.
  • Stay calm: The exam is not a pass/fail test. It’s about health verification, not judgment.

Final Thoughts

The USCIS medical exam is a critical part of the immigration process that helps safeguard public health and ensures you’re fit to live in the U.S. long-term. While the procedure may seem overwhelming at first, understanding the process and preparing properly will make it significantly easier.