I-693 Form, also known as the Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is a document required by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is used to verify that applicants for certain types of status adjustments do not have health-related grounds for inadmissibility.
This form plays a crucial role in the immigration process. A negative result, for example, during a permanent residency (green card) application, could lead to the denial of the status adjustment. Therefore, ensuring the form is properly completed and submitted is essential for a successful application process.
Things You Should Know Before Filling Out the I-693 Form
1.1 Understanding the Importance of the Form
Before you begin the paperwork, it’s crucial to understand why Form I-693 is required. USCIS uses this form to ensure that you do not bring contagious diseases to the United States, do not have health conditions that could pose a risk to the public, and meet the country’s vaccination requirements.
For example, if Juan, a Honduran living in Texas, wants to adjust his status, he must show that he is free from major diseases like tuberculosis and that he has received all required vaccinations, such as for chickenpox and MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella).
1.2 Reading the Official Instructions
Before proceeding, it is essential to read all the instructions provided by USCIS. These instructions are available on the USCIS website and provide specific details on how to correctly complete and file the form.
Additionally, these instructions include an FAQ section that can address most of the questions or doubts you may have. You can access the instructions directly from the USCIS Form I-693 page.
1.3 Finding a Designated Civil Surgeon
For the medical examination, you must visit a civil surgeon designated by USCIS. Not just any doctor can conduct this examination; it must be done by a licensed and approved civil surgeon. USCIS provides a tool on their website to help you find licensed doctors near you.
For example, let’s say Maria, another Honduran resident living in Miami, needs to find a civil surgeon. She logs onto the USCIS website and uses the “Find a Doctor” tool to locate a doctor who can perform her examination.
1.4 Preparing the Required Documents
Before your appointment with the civil surgeon, make sure to gather all necessary medical documents, including your vaccination records and any relevant medical history. This is important because the doctor will need this information to complete the form accurately.
For example, if Carlos, who lives in New York, has a medical history of tuberculosis, he should bring not only proof of treatment but also test results confirming that he has been cured.
Proper preparation before filling out Form I-693 is critical to ensure the process runs smoothly.
Make sure you understand the purpose of the form, read all USCIS instructions, find a licensed civil surgeon, and gather all the necessary medical documents. This first step is crucial to avoid any delays or issues with your status adjustment application.
What to Do During Your Medical Appointment
2.1 The Day of Your Appointment
On the day of your medical appointment, make sure to arrive on time and bring all necessary documents, including a valid government-issued ID (such as a passport or driver’s license) and your medical and vaccination records.
Providing a valid form of identification is essential so that the civil surgeon can verify your identity before proceeding with the examination. For instance, Ana, a Honduran woman living in Los Angeles, should bring her valid passport to prove her identity to the civil surgeon.
2.2 The Medical Examination Process
During the appointment, the civil surgeon will conduct a thorough physical exam, review your medical history, and confirm that your vaccinations are up to date according to the U.S. requirements, set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This may involve additional tests such as blood tests, tuberculosis tests, and X-rays. If any vaccinations are missing, the civil surgeon can administer them during the appointment.
For example, if Jose, who lives in Chicago, is missing the hepatitis B vaccination, the civil surgeon will administer it during the appointment to ensure he meets all health requirements for his status adjustment.
2.3 Completing the I-693 Form
After the examination, the civil surgeon will complete the I-693 Form based on the results. It’s crucial that you do not sign the form until instructed by the doctor, and always do so in the presence of the civil surgeon.
This ensures that the information is accurate and complete, as part of the verification process.
By understanding these steps and preparing accordingly, you can help ensure that your medical appointment goes smoothly, contributing to a timely and successful application process.
What to Do After Completing All Procedures
3.1 Receiving the Sealed I-693 Form
Once your medical examination is complete and the form is correctly filled out, the civil surgeon will place your I-693 Form in a sealed envelope. It’s crucial that you do not open this envelope, as USCIS will reject it if it’s tampered with or opened.
Additionally, the doctor should provide you with a copy of the completed form for your personal records.
For instance, if Alex, who resides in San Francisco, receives his sealed I-693 form, he must ensure that the envelope remains unopened and securely stored until it is submitted to USCIS as part of his status adjustment process.
3.2 Submitting the I-693 Form to USCIS
Typically, you will submit the sealed envelope as part of your status adjustment application. Depending on the specifics of your case, USCIS may ask you to send the form directly or follow additional instructions provided during your interview.
Final Recommendations
It’s always a good idea to keep a copy of the I-693 Form and any related documents that you send to USCIS for your personal records. Additionally, be sure to carefully follow the specific instructions provided by USCIS regarding when and how to submit your completed I-693 Form. This will help avoid any potential delays in your application process.
