Quick Summary: If you are applying for a green card while you are in the United States, you generally need Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. A qualified doctor completes this form after an immigration medical exam. The form helps USCIS decide whether there are health-related reasons that could affect your application.

This process can feel unfamiliar, especially if English is not your first language. The most important steps are to see the right doctor, bring the requested records, keep the completed form sealed, and follow your attorney’s instructions about when to submit it.

What Is Form I-693?

Form I-693 is a medical exam and vaccination record used in certain U.S. immigration cases. It is commonly required for people applying for a green card from inside the United States.

The form is completed by a doctor after an immigration medical examination. Its purpose is to show USCIS whether the applicant is inadmissible for health-related reasons. The doctor who performs the exam is often called a civil surgeon.

If you are applying for an immigrant visa outside the United States through a U.S. consulate, this specific form is not used. Instead, the medical exam is completed by a Department of State panel physician.

Choose a USCIS-Approved Civil Surgeon

Not every doctor can complete Form I-693. The exam must be performed by a doctor listed by USCIS as a civil surgeon. Before making an appointment, confirm that the doctor is authorized to provide immigration medical examinations.

When you call the office, clearly explain that you need an immigration medical exam for Form I-693. This can help the office schedule the correct type of appointment and tell you what records to bring.

Fees are set by each medical office and may be different from one doctor to another. It may be helpful to compare costs before you schedule. The document does not give a standard price, so applicants should ask each office directly about its charges.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Being prepared can make the appointment easier. The document explains that you should bring government-issued photo identification and a list of any medications you currently take. You should also bring your vaccination records.

If applicable, bring proof of your COVID-19 vaccination. Other medical records may also be helpful if they are available. Finally, bring a current edition of Form I-693. USCIS makes the current form available on its website.

These records help the civil surgeon review your health information and vaccination history. If you do not have every record, do not assume what will happen next. Ask the medical office what it needs and speak with your immigration attorney about your situation.

What Happens During the Immigration Medical Exam?

At the start of the exam, you will sign a certification. By signing, you confirm that you agree to the exam and that the information you provide is true.

During the appointment, the civil surgeon performs testing for communicable diseases that are important to public health. The doctor also screens for certain physical or mental disorders and for drug addiction and abuse. The civil surgeon reviews whether you have the vaccinations required for the immigration process.

Some applicants may need additional testing. The document does not describe every possible situation, so it is important to follow the instructions given by the civil surgeon and your attorney.

Protect the Sealed Envelope

After the testing is complete, the civil surgeon signs Form I-693 and places it in a sealed envelope. This step is very important.

Do not open the envelope or break the seal. USCIS will not accept the form if it is not in a sealed envelope or if the envelope has been changed in any way. The civil surgeon should also give you an additional copy of the signed form for your own records.

Keep the sealed envelope in a safe place. Before you mail or submit anything to USCIS, check with your attorney. A simple mistake with a document can create delays or lead USCIS to ask for more information.

When to Submit Form I-693

You may submit the completed medical exam with your green card application. In some cases, you may submit it later in response to a Request for Evidence from USCIS.

Timing can matter in an immigration case. Ventresca & Ventresca LLP encourages clients to get guidance before sending documents to USCIS. Our immigration law team can help you understand how this requirement fits into your pending or planned matter.

How Long Is Form I-693 Valid?

For forms properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, Form I-693 does not expire. According to the document, it may be used for an immigration benefit application at any time in the future.

However, USCIS may still request more evidence or a new or updated form if an officer has reason to believe the applicant’s medical condition has changed or the form no longer accurately reflects the applicant’s condition.

For a Form I-693 completed before November 1, 2023, the document states that it is valid for two years from the date the civil surgeon signed it.

FAQ

Do I need Form I-693 if I am applying for a green card in the United States?

The document states that people applying for a green card in the United States must submit Form I-693, which records an immigration medical exam and vaccinations.

Can my regular doctor complete Form I-693?

Only a doctor listed by USCIS as a civil surgeon may perform the exam and complete the form.

Should I open the sealed medical envelope to check the form?

No. Do not open or alter the sealed envelope. USCIS will not accept the form if the seal is broken or the envelope has been altered.

What if I am applying for an immigrant visa outside the United States?

The document says you do not use Form I-693 in that situation. Your medical exam is conducted by a Department of State panel physician at the consular process.

Can USCIS ask for a new medical form?

Yes. USCIS may request further evidence or a new or updated Form I-693 if it has reason to question whether the existing form still accurately reflects the applicant’s medical condition.

If this Form I-693 update may affect a pending or planned immigration matter, contact Ventresca & Ventresca LLP. Our responsive Wexford, PA immigration law team can discuss your situation and help you understand the next steps.