The immigration process to the United States can be complex, and one of the most critical steps is the immigration medical examination. This examination is essential to ensure that green card applicants do not pose a public health threat to the country.
The I-693 form, known as the Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record Report, allows applicants to demonstrate that they are free from certain health conditions that could render them inadmissible under U.S. immigration law.
According to the latest update, any I-693 form completed and signed by November 1, 2023, will remain valid indefinitely starting April 4, 2024. For more information about the I-693 form and updates, you can visit the official USCIS website: USCIS I-693 Form.
Understanding the importance of this medical examination and the required documents will help applicants meet all health requirements, streamlining the application process and improving their chances of success in green card applications.
For more information about the I-693 form, please read our article I-693 Form: What Is It? How to Fill Out the I-693 Form?.
Review Process and Location
Applicants who are seeking adjustment of status within the United States must undergo a medical examination conducted by an authorized civil surgeon. Those applying from abroad are required to have their medical examination with a panel physician during their consular processing.
For individuals in the U.S., finding an authorized doctor is essential to completing the necessary medical evaluation. To locate a qualified civil surgeon, applicants can use the “Find a Doctor” tool available on the myUSCIS page or contact the USCIS Contact Center for assistance at 1-800-375-5283.
It’s important to note that the authorized doctor will conduct a thorough medical examination to ensure applicants meet all the health requirements outlined by U.S. immigration law. If you’re applying from outside the U.S., your medical examination will be done by a panel physician accredited by the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. This examination plays a crucial role in ensuring the applicant does not have any health conditions that could disqualify them from receiving immigration benefits, and it is a required part of the immigration process.
Make sure to schedule your medical examination early to avoid delays in the application process, as it is one of the necessary steps for obtaining legal permanent resident status.
Medical Inadmissibility and Health Conditions
Applicants may be considered inadmissible for the following reasons:
- Serious communicable diseases: Diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, gonorrhea, and leprosy can pose serious public health risks. The CDC regularly updates technical instructions for doctors detailing which diseases are of public concern and how they should be screened and treated. For more information, you can check CDC’s Vaccination Page and CDC’s Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons.
- Drug or alcohol abuse: If medical tests reveal a current substance abuse problem, this may lead to inadmissibility. The assessment is based on clear medical and legal guidelines.
- Mental disorders and harmful behavior: Mental disorders that can lead to harmful behavior towards oneself or others may also make an applicant inadmissible.
- Incomplete vaccination record: Immigration laws require applicants to have a complete record of the recommended vaccinations. You can visit CDC’s Vaccination Page for the full list of required vaccinations.
Other health conditions and regulations that may lead to inadmissibility are detailed in Section 212(a)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality Act and CDC’s Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons. These sources will provide the most current and accurate information.
Things You Need to Know About Insurance and Medical Expenses
The costs associated with immigration medical examinations can vary significantly depending on the applicant’s location and the fees charged by the selected physician. Since these exams are not regulated by the federal government, prices can vary widely. Generally, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for an immigration medical examination. However, these costs can fluctuate based on several factors.
Key Points:
Cost Variability: The cost of an immigration medical examination can vary depending on the applicant’s location and the pricing policies of the chosen doctor. Therefore, it is recommended that applicants contact several licensed physicians before scheduling their examination to compare prices. This way, they can find the most cost-effective option and avoid unexpected financial surprises.
Health Insurance: Many licensed physicians may not accept health insurance for immigration medical exams. Additionally, your insurance policy may not cover most of the costs associated with the process. Therefore, it is important to check your insurance coverage and contact your insurance company to understand what costs might or might not be covered.
Managing Costs: To learn more about how to manage medical costs, applicants can visit the Understanding Costs page from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This page offers tips for planning medical expenses and can guide you in obtaining cost estimates before your appointment.
While the immigration medical exam is a crucial part of the application process, being informed about how to manage these costs can make the process much smoother.
That’s all we have to say about immigration medical exams. If you have any questions regarding this process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help and ensure that you have the best experience possible.
