Immigration Physical Exam: Everything You Need to Know

Starting the immigration process is exciting, but it also comes with essential medical requirements. One of these is the immigration physical exam, a critical step for anyone applying for U.S. permanent residency or certain visas. Conducted by government-authorized doctors, this exam ensures that individuals entering the U.S. do not pose public health risks.

We’re here to guide you through the entire process, from understanding what the exam entails to knowing what happens afterward.

What is an Immigration Physical Exam?

An immigration physical exam, also called a green card medical exam, is a mandatory health assessment for immigration applicants to the United States. The exam is conducted by USCIS-designated civil surgeons (for applicants getting examined in the U.S.) or panel physicians (for applicants outside the U.S.).

The exam primarily focuses on:

• Identifying public health risks such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea.
• Confirming that the applicant is up to date on required vaccinations.
• Screening for mental health conditions related to harmful behavior.
• Ensuring the applicant meets medical admissibility requirements.

Who Needs an Immigration Medical Exam?

Not all visa applicants require a medical exam. However, it is mandatory for:

• Green card (permanent residency) applicants.
• Certain non-immigrant visa applicants, such as fiancé(e) visas (K-1 visa).
• Refugees and asylum seekers adjusting status.
• Some employment-based visa applicants who may be subject to health-related grounds of inadmissibility.

Finding a USCIS-Designated Civil Surgeon

Not all doctors can perform an immigration medical exam. The physician must be certified by USCIS as a civil surgeon. To find one:

• Visit the USCIS Doctor Locator
• Enter your zip code to find civil surgeons near you.
• Contact the doctor’s office to confirm pricing and availability.

If you are applying from outside the U.S., you must use an embassy-approved panel physician listed on the U.S. Department of State’s website.

What to Expect During Your Immigration Physical Exam

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens during an immigration medical exam:

Step 1: Medical History Review

Your doctor will ask about:

• Past illnesses and surgeries.
• Current medical conditions.
• Mental health history, including any prior psychiatric hospitalizations.
• Medication use, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Step 2: Physical Examination

A full-body check-up includes:

• Measuring height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse.
• Examining the eyes, nose, throat, ears, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and extremities.
• Evaluating for any signs of addiction or infectious disease symptoms.

Step 3: Mental Health Assessment

The doctor will assess whether you have:

• A mental disorder linked to harmful behavior.
• A history of substance abuse or dependency.

Step 4: Required Tests and Screenings

USCIS requires specific tests based on your age:

• Tuberculosis (TB) test: Required for applicants 2 years and older. A skin or IGRA blood test is administered. If positive, a chest X-ray is required.
• Syphilis test: Required for applicants 15–44 years old.
• Gonorrhea test: Required for applicants 15–44 years old.

Vaccination Requirements for U.S. Immigration

USCIS and the CDC require applicants to be up to date on vaccinations, including:

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Polio
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap)
• Influenza (during flu season)
• Hepatitis A & B
• Meningococcal
• COVID-19

If you are missing vaccines, the civil surgeon will provide them during your appointment.

Understanding Form I-693: Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record

After completing your exam, the civil surgeon fills out Form I-693, an official USCIS medical report.

• The form is sealed and must remain unopened until submitted to USCIS.
• If you open it, USCIS may reject your application.
• The form is valid for up to two years from the exam date.

Cost of an Immigration Physical Exam

The price varies by location, civil surgeon, and required vaccinations/tests, typically ranging from $200 to $600. Insurance does not cover the cost because the exam is an immigration requirement.

What Happens After the Exam?

Once the exam is complete:

• The doctor provides your sealed Form I-693.
• You submit the sealed envelope to USCIS alongside your immigration application.
• If USCIS requires further medical testing, they will notify you.

Common Reasons for Medical Inadmissibility

In some cases, applicants may be denied a visa or green card due to:

• Communicable diseases such as active tuberculosis or untreated syphilis.
• Drug addiction or abuse.
• Mental disorders with harmful behavior.

If any of these issues apply, you may be able to request a waiver by applying through USCIS.

Book an appointment today at SFL and get started with your Immigration physical exam.