Applying for a green card in the United States involves several steps, and one crucial requirement is undergoing an immigration medical examination. This exam must be conducted by a doctor specifically designated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), known as a civil surgeon. Navigating the process to Find Doctors qualified to perform these exams can seem daunting, but this guide will provide you with the essential information you need.
Understanding Civil Surgeons and Immigration Medical Exams
USCIS designates certain physicians as civil surgeons to carry out the immigration medical examinations necessary for most green card applicants. These designated doctors are authorized to ensure that applicants meet the health standards required for lawful permanent residency.
It’s important to understand that there are different categories of designated doctors:
- Civil Surgeons: These are the doctors you will typically find on the USCIS list of designated civil surgeons. They are authorized to perform the full immigration medical examination for most green card applicants.
- Military Blanket Designated Civil Surgeons: U.S. military physicians at military treatment facilities within the United States are authorized to perform immigration medical exams for U.S. veterans, active members of the U.S. military, and their designated dependents.
- Health Department Blanket Designated Civil Surgeons: Refugee applicants may be able to visit their local health department to see a health department blanket designated civil surgeon. These doctors are authorized to conduct the entire examination or specific parts of it, but they are not listed on the regular USCIS civil surgeon search tool.
Panel physicians are another category, but they are distinct from civil surgeons. Panel physicians are appointed by the Department of State and conduct immigration medical examinations outside the United States, as part of the visa process at a U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot perform exams for applicants adjusting status within the U.S.
How to Find a Designated Civil Surgeon
To find doctors authorized to perform immigration medical exams, the primary resource is the USCIS website. USCIS provides a tool to locate designated civil surgeons in your area. This tool is the most reliable way to find doctors officially recognized for these examinations.
For U.S. veterans, members of the U.S. military, and their dependents, contacting a military treatment facility within the United States is the best way to find a military blanket designated civil surgeon. Similarly, refugee applicants should inquire with their local health department to find health department blanket designated civil surgeons. Remember that blanket designated civil surgeons may not appear on the general USCIS search tool.
Preparing for Your Immigration Medical Exam
Once you find doctors and schedule your medical examination, it’s important to be prepared. Here’s what you need to bring to your appointment:
Documents to Bring:
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record: You should download and complete page one of Form I-693 before your appointment.
- Government-issued photo identification: A valid passport or driver’s license is required. Applicants 14 years old or younger can bring identification showing their name, date and place of birth, and parents’ full names, such as a birth certificate (with an English translation) or affidavit.
- Vaccination or immunization records: Bring any records you have of vaccinations, including but not limited to: DT, DTP, DTaP, Td, Tdap, OPV, IPV, MMR, Hib, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, varicella, pneumococcal influenza, rotavirus, meningococcal disease, and COVID-19.
- Health insurance card: Inquire with the civil surgeon’s office if they accept your health insurance for immigration medical examinations. Be aware that many health insurance plans do not cover all parts of this exam.
- Payment: Confirm with the civil surgeon’s office their accepted forms of payment and the cost of the examination. Prices can vary, so it may be helpful to contact a few different doctors to compare costs.
What to Expect During the Exam:
The immigration medical examination includes a review of your medical history and a physical examination. The civil surgeon will conduct a thorough examination, which includes:
- Review of medical history: The doctor will ask about your past and present health conditions.
- Physical examination: A general physical check-up will be performed.
- Tests for communicable diseases: Depending on your age, the civil surgeon will test for communicable diseases like tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea, as required by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC provides detailed Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons outlining these requirements.
After the examination, the civil surgeon will complete Form I-693 and seal it in an envelope for you to submit to USCIS. Always ensure you receive a copy of the completed Form I-693 for your records before the envelope is sealed. USCIS will not accept forms if the envelope has been opened or altered. For complete details, refer to uscis.gov/i-693.
Addressing Concerns and Reporting Issues
If you have any concerns about a civil surgeon’s conduct, you should contact your state medical board. For concerns specifically related to the immigration medical examination or Form I-693, contact the USCIS Contact Center for assistance.
Conclusion
Finding doctors designated as civil surgeons is a critical step in your green card application process. By understanding the different types of designated doctors and utilizing the resources provided by USCIS, you can navigate this requirement effectively. Being well-prepared for your medical examination will help ensure a smoother process towards achieving your immigration goals. Remember to use the USCISFind a Civil Surgeon tool to locate authorized doctors in your area and always verify the doctor’s designation before your appointment.
