Immigration Medical Exam: What Do They Check?

The immigration medical exam is a key part of the visa and green card application process, ensuring applicants meet health standards and do not pose a public health risk. This guide answers common questions about the exam, including its components and required vaccinations.

What Is an Immigration Medical Exam and Why Is It Required?

The immigration medical exam is a USCIS-required health screening for green card and visa applicants, focusing on communicable diseases, vaccination compliance, and conditions affecting admissibility.

Who Needs to Undergo the Exam?

Green card (permanent residency) applicants
Certain visa applicants (e.g., fiancé(e) visas, refugee or asylum applicants)
Some individuals applying for status adjustment within the U.S.
Anyone required by USCIS due to health-related grounds of inadmissibility

The exam must be conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon (for applicants inside the U.S.) or a panel physician (for applicants abroad).

What Do They Check in an Immigration Physical Exam?

The immigration medical exam consists of several components to assess the applicant’s health status.

1. General Physical Examination

A USCIS-authorized doctor will perform a basic physical assessment, including:

Height and weight measurement
Blood pressure and heart rate check
Vision and hearing tests
Evaluation of general appearance and overall physical health
Examination for signs of infectious diseases, disabilities, or abnormalities

2. Medical History Review

The physician will ask about:

Past and current illnesses
Hospitalizations and surgeries
Chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease
Mental health history, including psychiatric illnesses
Drug or alcohol use

3. Vaccination Requirements

USCIS requires applicants to meet the CDC vaccination guidelines. Required vaccinations for a green card include:

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Hepatitis A and B
Polio
Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td/Tdap)
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Influenza (seasonal, if applicable)
Pneumococcal vaccine (for certain age groups)
Varicella (chickenpox)
Rotavirus (for children)
COVID-19 vaccine

If an applicant lacks proof of these vaccinations, they may need to get immunized before completing the exam.

4. Communicable Disease Screening

Immigration health exams include screenings for infectious diseases that could pose a public health threat, such as:

Tuberculosis (TB): A chest X-ray or tuberculin skin test (TST) or Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) is required to detect TB.
Syphilis: Blood tests are conducted for applicants aged 15 and older.
Gonorrhea: Urine testing is required for applicants 15 and older.
Other diseases of public health significance as per CDC guidelines.

5. Mental Examination

Applicants undergo a mental health evaluation to identify conditions that may lead to inadmissibility, such as:

Severe psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
A history of harmful behavior due to mental illness
Current or past self-harm or harm to others

6. Substance Abuse Screening

The doctor will assess an applicant’s drug and alcohol use history. If there is evidence of substance abuse or addiction, further evaluation may be required to determine if the condition affects admissibility.

Where to Get an Immigration Medical Exam

Finding a qualified provider is essential for a smooth process.

Finding an Authorized Immigration Doctor

Inside the U.S.: Use the USCIS Find a Doctor tool to locate a civil surgeon. You can also visit Manhattan Primary Care, a trusted provider for immigration medical exams.
Outside the U.S.: Check with the U.S. embassy or consulate for a list of authorized panel physicians.

Scheduling an Appointment

When scheduling, bring:

Valid passport or government-issued ID
Vaccination records
Medical history documents
USCIS Form I-693 (for green card applicants in the U.S.)

What to Expect During the Appointment

The doctor will review medical records and vaccination history.
A physical exam and lab tests will be conducted.
Any missing vaccines may be administered.
Results are recorded in Form I-693 and given in a sealed envelope for USCIS submission.

Conclusion

The immigration medical exam is essential for visa and green card applicants to ensure public health safety. It involves a physical exam, vaccination verification, and screenings for diseases and mental health conditions. Preparing in advance helps avoid delays. If applying for a green card or visa, schedule an appointment with an authorized doctor, gather medical records, and ensure vaccination compliance for a smoother process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does a physical take?

An immigration medical exam typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on required tests and vaccinations.

2. How long does it take to get a green card after a medical exam?

It usually takes 2 to 6 months, but timelines vary based on USCIS processing and background checks.

3. How long does it take to get a green card after submitting Form I-693?

USCIS processes Form I-693 in 30 to 90 days, but green card approval may take several months.

4. What not to do before a physical exam?

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, drugs, heavy meals, and intense exercise before the exam. Bring required documents.

Disclaimer:

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health-related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.