USCIS Green Card Medical Exam: Complete Guide to Requirements, Process, and Preparation

The USCIS Green Card Medical Exam is one of the most important steps in the immigration process for individuals applying for permanent residency in the United States. This exam ensures that applicants meet the health-related standards set by U.S. immigration law and do not pose a risk to public health. Conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon, the medical exam helps confirm that applicants are free from contagious diseases and are medically eligible to live in the U.S.

What Is the USCIS Green Card Medical Exam?

The USCIS medical exam (Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) is a health assessment conducted by a certified doctor (civil surgeon) recognized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The purpose of the exam is to verify that you do not have any medical conditions that would make you inadmissible for a green card.

It is required for most adjustment of status (Form I-485) applicants who are seeking lawful permanent residence in the U.S.

Who Needs to Take the USCIS Medical Exam?

Anyone applying for a U.S. green card through family, employment, or other categories must complete the medical exam. This includes applicants applying from within the U.S. (via adjustment of status) and those applying abroad through a U.S. consulate.

Certain individuals may be exempt, such as refugees or asylum seekers who have already completed a similar medical screening overseas.

What Does the USCIS Medical Exam Include?

The exam is designed to evaluate your overall health, vaccination history, and any medical conditions that could affect your eligibility. Here’s what the doctor will typically check:

1. Medical History Review

The civil surgeon will ask about your personal medical history, including:

• Past surgeries or major illnesses
• Mental health conditions
• Substance abuse history
• Current medications
• History of hospitalizations

You should be honest and thorough when answering these questions to avoid any complications or delays in your application.

2. Physical Examination

The doctor will conduct a general physical exam, which may include:

• Checking your heart, lungs, abdomen, and blood pressure
• Examining your skin, eyes, ears, nose, and throat
• Assessing your mental and neurological health

3. Vaccination Verification

USCIS requires all applicants to be up to date on certain vaccinations. The civil surgeon will review your vaccination records and administer any missing ones. Required vaccines may include:

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Hepatitis B
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• Influenza (during flu season)
• Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td or Tdap)
• COVID-19 (as per CDC and USCIS updates)

If you are missing any vaccines, the doctor can administer them during your visit.

4. Blood Tests and Screenings

To ensure public health safety, the doctor will perform or request several laboratory tests, such as:

• Tuberculosis (TB) Test: Required for all applicants age 2 and older.
• Syphilis Blood Test: Required for applicants age 15 and older.
• Gonorrhea Test: Required for applicants age 15 and older.

Additional tests may be conducted if deemed necessary.

How to Prepare for Your USCIS Medical Exam

Proper preparation can make your medical exam smooth and efficient. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need to bring and do before your appointment:

Documents to Bring:

• Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
• Vaccination records (translated into English if needed)
• Form I-693 (if applying in the U.S.) — do not sign it until instructed by the doctor
• Medical history records (including prescriptions or treatment documentation)
• Payment method (each clinic sets its own exam fee)

Tips for Preparation:

• Schedule your appointment with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon only. You can find one through the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator.
• Avoid taking antibiotics before your TB test unless prescribed.
• If you are pregnant, inform your doctor so certain tests or X-rays can be postponed or adjusted.

What to Expect During and After the Exam

The USCIS medical exam typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the number of required vaccines or lab tests.

After completing the examination:

• The civil surgeon will fill out and sign Form I-693.
• You will receive the completed and sealed form in an envelope.
• Do not open the sealed envelope — it must be submitted unopened to USCIS along with your green card application.

If you are applying online, the civil surgeon may also submit the results electronically.

Common Reasons for Medical Inadmissibility

In rare cases, a medical condition can lead to inadmissibility or delay in your application. Reasons may include:

• Communicable diseases of public health significance (e.g., tuberculosis, syphilis)
• Lack of required vaccinations
• Physical or mental disorders associated with harmful behavior
• Drug abuse or addiction

If an issue arises, your civil surgeon may recommend treatment or vaccination updates before resubmitting your application.

Why the USCIS Green Card Medical Exam Is Important

This exam is more than just a formality — it’s a critical part of ensuring that you meet the public health standards required for U.S. residency. Passing the medical exam means you are one step closer to achieving your green card and starting your new life in the United States.

By getting examined by a trusted civil surgeon and preparing all necessary documents in advance, you can avoid delays and complications in your immigration process.

Conclusion

The USCIS Green Card Medical Exam is a vital part of your journey toward becoming a permanent resident of the United States. By understanding the process, preparing your documents, and following your civil surgeon’s instructions, you can make this step smooth and stress-free.