Introduction

If you're applying for a U.S. green card or adjusting your immigration status, one key requirement is completing the USCIS medical exam. This step is essential in verifying that applicants do not have any health conditions that could pose a public health risk or affect their admissibility to the United States.

What Is the USCIS Medical Exam?

The USCIS medical exam is a mandatory health screening for individuals applying for lawful permanent residency (green card). It is performed to:

• Screen for communicable diseases
• Confirm required vaccinations
• Evaluate mental and physical health
• Identify drug or alcohol abuse issues
• Determine eligibility based on health-related grounds

This exam is not a full physical or diagnostic check-up, but a targeted screening for conditions relevant to immigration law.

Who Needs the USCIS Medical Exam?

You must take the USCIS medical exam if you are:

• Applying for a green card through adjustment of status in the U.S.
• Applying for an immigrant visa from abroad
• Seeking certain waivers or visas where health conditions may be a factor
• A refugee or asylee applying for permanent residency

Children and adults are both required to complete the exam, although the tests and vaccinations may vary depending on age.

Step 1: Find a Designated Civil Surgeon or Panel Physician

Only specific doctors can perform the USCIS medical exam:

• Inside the U.S.: Use a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. You can find one near you at the USCIS Find a Doctor tool.
• Outside the U.S.: The exam must be done by a panel physician authorized by the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.

Important: USCIS will not accept results from doctors who are not authorized, even if they’re your regular physician.

Step 2: Schedule Your Appointment

Contact the civil surgeon or panel physician directly to schedule your exam. Ask about:

• Cost (varies by provider and region)
• Required documents
• Vaccines or tests included
• Estimated duration of the appointment

Appointments can fill up quickly, so schedule as soon as you know you’ll need the exam.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documents

To avoid delays, bring the following items to your appointment:

• Government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
• A copy of your medical and vaccination records
• Form I-693 (blank and unsigned) if filing in the U.S.
• Prior TB test results or chest X-rays (if applicable)
• List of current medications and past surgeries
• Payment for the exam (insurance usually does not cover it)

Children should also bring their immunization history and pediatric medical records.

Step 4: What to Expect During the USCIS Medical Exam

The exam typically includes the following components:

1. Medical History Review

The doctor will ask about:

• Past illnesses and hospitalizations
• Ongoing medical conditions
• Drug or alcohol use
• Mental health history
• Vaccination history

Be honest and thorough. Lying or omitting information can delay your application or cause complications.

2. Physical Examination

A general physical exam will assess:

• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
• Heart, lungs, and abdomen
• Skin, limbs, and neurological function
• Height, weight, and blood pressure

The goal is to identify any conditions that may require further testing or treatment.

3. Vaccination Review

The doctor will verify that you're up to date on required vaccinations, including:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• Tetanus and diphtheria (Td/Tdap)
• Hepatitis A and B
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Influenza (seasonal)
• COVID-19
• Polio and others, based on age

If you are missing any, the doctor can administer them at the time of the exam or advise you where to get them.

4. Tuberculosis (TB) Screening

• Applicants aged 2 and older must undergo TB screening using a blood test (IGRA).
• If the result is positive, a chest X-ray is required.
• If active TB is diagnosed, you must complete treatment before your green card can be approved.

5. Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Testing

Applicants aged 15 and older are tested for:

• Syphilis (via blood test)
• Gonorrhea (via urine test)

Other STD testing may be recommended based on symptoms or history.

Step 5: After the Exam – What Happens Next?

Once the exam is complete, the civil surgeon will:

• Complete Form I-693, sign it, and place it in a sealed envelope
• Give you a copy for your records
• Do not open the sealed envelope — it must be submitted to USCIS as-is

You will then:

• Submit the sealed I-693 form along with your adjustment of status application (Form I-485),
• OR bring it to your green card interview if it was not submitted earlier.

How Long Is the USCIS Medical Exam Valid?

• As of current USCIS rules, Form I-693 is valid for 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs it.
• Make sure your form is still valid at the time of your green card interview or decision.

How Much Does the USCIS Medical Exam Cost?

Costs vary widely but generally range between $200–$500, depending on:

• Location
• Required vaccines
• Lab tests
• Additional services

Most health insurance plans do not cover immigration medical exams, so be sure to ask for the total fee when booking your appointment.

Tips for a Smooth USCIS Medical Exam

• Schedule early to avoid delays in your green card process.
• Bring all documents and records, especially vaccination proof.
• Follow the doctor’s instructions on medications or fasting before testing.
• Inform the provider about any allergies or chronic conditions.
• Ask questions if you’re unsure about any part of the process.

Final Thoughts

The USCIS medical exam may seem intimidating, but it’s a standard and essential part of the immigration process. By understanding what to expect and preparing properly, you can complete this requirement with confidence.