Applying for a Green Card in the U.S. often involves a crucial step: the immigration medical examination. If you are filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, understanding this process is essential. This examination ensures public health safety and requires you to be vaccinated against certain diseases. Navigating this requirement might seem daunting, but finding the right “Medicine Doctor Near Me” who is authorized to conduct these exams is simpler than you think.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) mandates this medical examination be performed by a designated physician known as a “civil surgeon.” These civil surgeons are specifically authorized to conduct immigration medical exams within the United States. Unlike those applying for immigrant visas through consular processing who visit panel physicians overseas, adjustment of status applicants must utilize civil surgeons located domestically.
Locating a Civil Surgeon – Your “Medicine Doctor Near Me” for Immigration
Finding a “medicine doctor near me” who is also a designated civil surgeon is straightforward. USCIS provides a handy online tool to help you locate one in your area. Simply visit the myUSCIS “Find a Civil Surgeon” page. This tool allows you to search for authorized civil surgeons near your location, making it easy to find a “medicine doctor near me” who meets your specific needs for the immigration medical examination.
For those who prefer direct assistance, the USCIS Contact Center is also available at 800-375-5283. For individuals with hearing or speech disabilities, the TTY line is 800-767-1833. These resources can guide you in finding a qualified “medicine doctor near me” to complete your immigration medical examination.
Understanding the Costs Associated with Your Immigration Medical Exam
It’s important to be aware of the fees associated with the immigration medical examination. USCIS does not regulate the fees charged by civil surgeons. Therefore, costs can vary. When searching for a “medicine doctor near me” for your exam, it is advisable to contact several local civil surgeons to compare their fees.
Keep in mind these key points regarding fees:
- Variable Rates: Fees are not fixed and differ between civil surgeons.
- Insurance Limitations: Many civil surgeons do not accept health insurance for immigration medical examinations.
- Coverage Uncertainty: Even if a civil surgeon does accept insurance, it may not cover all aspects of the examination.
To better prepare for potential expenses, consider visiting the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ “Understanding costs in advance” webpage. This resource can offer valuable insights into understanding healthcare costs before your appointment with a “medicine doctor near me” for your immigration medical exam.
Preparing for Your Appointment: Form I-693
Before visiting your chosen “medicine doctor near me,” preparation is key. You will need to download and print the most recent version of Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, from the USCIS website. Complete Part 1 of the form before your appointment, but crucially, do not sign it until instructed to do so by the civil surgeon.
During your examination, the civil surgeon will use Form I-693 to document all findings. It is also essential to bring your medical records, including any vaccination records you possess, to your appointment with the “medicine doctor near me.”
After the examination, the civil surgeon will complete, sign, and seal Form I-693 along with any supporting documents in a sealed envelope. This sealed envelope is what you must submit to USCIS according to the Form I-693 instructions. It is vital that you do not break the seal or open this envelope. USCIS will not accept Form I-693 if it is not in its sealed envelope or if the envelope shows any signs of tampering.
Responsibilities of Civil Surgeons
Civil surgeons, as authorized “medicine doctors near me” for immigration medical exams, have specific responsibilities and must adhere to strict requirements set by USCIS. For a deeper understanding of these responsibilities and the detailed instructions they follow when conducting immigration medical examinations, you can refer to the Designated Civil Surgeons page on the USCIS website. This ensures that the “medicine doctor near me” you choose is fully compliant with all USCIS guidelines.
By understanding the process and knowing how to find a qualified “medicine doctor near me,” you can navigate the immigration medical examination requirement with confidence and ensure a smoother adjustment of status application process.
