Applying for a green card in the United States involves several crucial steps, and one significant requirement is undergoing an immigration medical examination. This examination must be conducted by a physician specifically designated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These designated physicians are known as civil surgeons, and they are authorized to perform the necessary medical evaluations for most individuals seeking to adjust their status to permanent resident.
For U.S. veterans, active military personnel, and their eligible dependents, military doctors at military treatment facilities within the U.S. are also authorized as blanket designated civil surgeons. Additionally, refugee applicants may find assistance from health department blanket designated civil surgeons, who may be available through local health departments. It’s important to note that while these blanket designated civil surgeons are authorized to conduct medical examinations, they may not appear on the official USCIS list of civil surgeons. For detailed information on blanket designated civil surgeons, you can refer to the USCIS Policy Manual, specifically Part C – Civil Surgeon Designation and Revocation.
It’s also important to distinguish between civil surgeons and panel physicians. Immigration medical examinations required outside the United States must be performed by panel physicians, who are appointed by the Department of State. Panel physicians cater to individuals undergoing visa processing at a U.S. Embassy or consulate abroad and are not authorized to conduct examinations for applicants adjusting status within the United States with USCIS.
Preparing for Your Medical Examination with Designated Doctors
To ensure a smooth medical examination process, it’s essential to bring the necessary documents and information to your appointment with the civil surgeon. Here’s what you should have with you:
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record: This is a mandatory form that the civil surgeon will complete.
- Government-issued photo identification: A valid passport or driver’s license is acceptable. 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 documentation of vaccinations including 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: While it’s advisable to bring your health insurance card, be aware that many health insurance plans may not cover all aspects of the immigration medical examination. It’s best to confirm with the civil surgeon’s office if they accept your insurance for this specific type of exam.
- Payment: Inquire about the accepted forms of payment when you contact the civil surgeon’s office. The cost for immigration medical examinations can vary, sometimes significantly, so it may be beneficial to contact multiple civil surgeons to compare prices.
What to Expect During Your Medical Exam with Immigration Doctors
The immigration medical examination conducted by civil surgeons involves a thorough review of your medical history and a physical examination.
The designated doctor will perform a comprehensive assessment, including going over your medical history and conducting a physical examination. 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, based on your age and specific requirements. The CDC provides detailed guidelines for these examinations in their Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons | CDC.
Once the immigration medical examination is complete, the civil surgeon will fill out Form I-693 and provide it to you in a sealed envelope for submission to USCIS. Prior to sealing the envelope, ensure you receive a copy of the completed Form I-693 for your personal records. USCIS will not accept Form I-693 if the envelope has been opened or appears to have been tampered with.
For complete details regarding Form I-693, please visit uscis.gov/i-693.
Addressing Concerns Regarding Civil Surgeons and Medical Examinations
If you encounter any issues or have concerns about the conduct or actions of a civil surgeon, you should contact your state medical board. For concerns specifically related to the immigration medical examination process or Form I-693, you can reach out to the USCIS Contact Center for assistance.
This guide aims to provide clarity on finding and preparing for your medical examination with designated doctors, ensuring a smoother green card application process.
