For individuals applying for a green card in the United States, a crucial step in the process is undergoing an immigration medical examination. This examination must be conducted by a physician specifically designated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), known as a civil surgeon. USCIS appoints these doctors to ensure that green card applicants meet the required health standards. For U.S. veterans, military personnel, and their dependents, military physicians at military treatment facilities within the U.S. are also authorized as blanket designated civil surgeons. Furthermore, certain adjustment of status applicants may only need the vaccination portion of the exam. Refugee applicants might find blanket designated civil surgeons at local health departments. It’s important to note that while health department surgeons are authorized for these exams, they are typically not listed on the USCIS online Doctor Search tool for civil surgeons. For detailed information, refer to the USCIS Policy Manual, Part C, regarding civil surgeon designation.
Immigration medical examinations required outside the U.S. are conducted by panel physicians, who are appointed by the Department of State. Panel physicians are distinct from civil surgeons. They perform medical exams for visa processing at U.S. Embassies or consulates abroad and cannot conduct exams for those applying for adjustment of status within the U.S. with USCIS.
Preparing for Your Civil Surgeon Examination
To ensure a smooth and efficient medical examination, it’s essential to bring the necessary documents and information to your appointment with the civil surgeon. Here’s what you should bring:
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record: Make sure to have the latest version of this form.
- Government-issued photo identification: A valid passport or driver’s license is required. Applicants who are 14 years old or younger can provide identification showing their name, date and place of birth, and parents’ full names, such as a birth certificate with an English translation or an 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 vaccinations.
- Health insurance card: Inquire with the civil surgeon’s office whether they accept your health insurance for immigration medical examinations. Be aware that many health insurance plans might not cover all aspects of this exam.
- Payment: Confirm with the civil surgeon’s office about their accepted payment methods. It is advisable to contact several civil surgeons to compare their fees for the immigration medical examination, as prices can vary significantly.
What to Expect During the Doctor’s Examination
The immigration medical examination conducted by a civil surgeon involves a thorough review of your medical history and a physical examination.
The civil surgeon will perform a comprehensive assessment, including going over your medical history and conducting a physical exam. As mandated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the civil surgeon will also conduct tests for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea, depending on your age and specific requirements. The CDC provides detailed guidelines for immigration medical examinations in their Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons.
After the examination, the civil surgeon will complete Form I-693 and seal it in an envelope for you to submit to USCIS. Before the envelope is sealed, ensure you receive a copy of the completed Form I-693 for your personal records. USCIS will reject the form if the envelope is opened or altered.
For complete details, please visit uscis.gov/i-693.
Addressing Concerns Regarding Your Civil Surgeon
If you encounter any issues or have concerns about a civil surgeon’s conduct, you can report them. For concerns related to a civil surgeon’s behavior or actions, contact your state medical board. If your concerns are specifically about the immigration medical examination process or Form I-693, reach out to the USCIS Contact Center.
Finding a designated civil surgeon is a key step in your green card application process. Utilize the USCIS doctor search tool to locate a qualified civil surgeon and ensure you are fully prepared for your medical examination.
