Applying for a Green Card in the U.S. involves several steps, and one crucial requirement is undergoing an immigration medical examination. This exam ensures that you meet the health standards for lawful permanent residency. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) mandates this medical evaluation to protect public health. It’s important to note that as of January 22, 2025, the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for adjustment of status applicants has been waived. You will not need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination as part of your Form I-693 after this date.
What is an Immigration Medical Exam?
If you are filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, you are generally required to complete an immigration medical examination. This examination must be conducted by a designated physician authorized by USCIS, known as a civil surgeon. These civil surgeons are located within the United States. For applicants undergoing consular processing with the Department of State (DOS) outside the U.S., the medical exams are performed by panel physicians located overseas. The purpose of this exam is to identify any health conditions that might make you inadmissible to the United States based on health-related grounds.
How to Find a Civil Surgeon (MD Doctor) Near You
Locating a civil surgeon, essentially an MD doctor authorized for immigration medical exams, is a key step in your application process. USCIS provides resources to help you find a designated civil surgeon near you.
You can use the myUSCIS Find a Civil Surgeon tool available on the USCIS website. This online tool allows you to search for civil surgeons in your area by zip code. Alternatively, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 for assistance in finding a civil surgeon. For individuals with hearing or speech disabilities, the TTY line is available at 800-767-1833. These resources are designed to connect you with qualified medical doctors who can perform your immigration medical examination.
Understanding Immigration Medical Examination Fees
It’s important to be aware of the costs associated with the immigration medical exam. USCIS does not regulate the fees charged by civil surgeons. Therefore, the cost can vary between different doctors. It is advisable to contact several local civil surgeons to compare their fees. When you call, inquire whether they accept health insurance for the immigration medical examination.
Keep in mind the following regarding fees:
- Variable Rates: Fees differ among civil surgeons.
- Insurance Limitations: Many civil surgeons may not accept health insurance.
- Limited Coverage: Even if a civil surgeon accepts insurance, it may not cover all aspects of the immigration medical examination.
To better understand potential costs beforehand, you can visit the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Understanding costs in advance webpage for general information on healthcare costs.
Completing Form I-693 for Your Medical Exam
Before your appointment with the civil surgeon, download and print the most recent version of Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Complete Part 1 of the form before your appointment, but do not sign it until instructed by the civil surgeon.
In addition to Form I-693, bring your medical records, including any vaccination records you have. The civil surgeon will use Form I-693 to document the results of your immigration medical examination. After completing the examination, the civil surgeon will finalize Form I-693 and place it in a sealed envelope along with any supporting documents. You are required to submit this sealed envelope to USCIS according to the Form I-693 instructions.
Important Note: Do not open the sealed envelope containing your Form I-693. USCIS will not accept the form if the envelope is unsealed or appears to have been tampered with.
Responsibilities of Civil Surgeons
Civil surgeons play a vital role in the immigration process by conducting thorough medical examinations and accurately documenting the findings on Form I-693. For detailed information on the responsibilities and requirements for civil surgeons, and instructions on how they should perform immigration exams, you can refer to the Designated Civil Surgeons page on the USCIS website. This page provides comprehensive guidance for both applicants and civil surgeons involved in the immigration medical examination process.
Finding a qualified “Md Doctor Near Me” who is a designated civil surgeon is a critical step in your Green Card application. Utilize the resources provided by USCIS to locate a civil surgeon, understand the examination requirements, and ensure you complete all necessary steps for your immigration medical exam.
