Forms I-693, encompassing the Reports of Medical Examination and Vaccination Records, are generally necessary for nearly all individuals who undergo status adjustments to become legal permanent residents (green card holders).

If you are applying to USCIS to change your immigration status, you must establish that you are physically and mentally fit to enter the country by passing a medical examination.

What’s The Form I-693 For?

1.Overview of Immigration Medical Examination

Applicants for green cards frequently undergo a medical examination as part of the immigration process. The necessary medical clearance for permanent residency or citizenship can only be provided by a government-approved physician, also known as a civil surgeon. Here’s what to anticipate during the immigration medical examination.

2.Health Conditions Affecting Eligibility

During the immigration medical examination, there are four main medical conditions that may result in an applicant being deemed ineligible on health grounds:

• Communicable diseases pertaining to public health
• Maladaptive conduct stemming from a physical or mental disorder
• Substance dependence or misuse of drugs and alcohol
• Failure to adhere to vaccination requirements

3.Role of Form I-693 in USCIS Medical Examinations

Form I-693 serves as a tool utilized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to gather information from medical examinations. The U.S. government mandates this examination to demonstrate that the applicant does not present a public health hazard to the nation. Moreover, this comprehensive medical assessment is employed to confirm that USCIS applicants are dev

Who Requires Form I-693?

This criterion is founded on public health considerations. Exceptions include individuals seeking registry or those born in the US and granted diplomatic immunity.

If you have previously undergone a medical examination overseas before arriving in the United States, and you fall into one of the following categories:

• K-1 fiancé(e)
• K-3 (spouse) 
• K-2 and K-4 (children of K-1 and K3, respectively)

You are not required to undergo another medical evaluation. However, it is important to ensure that you submit Form I-485 no later than 12 months after your original medical evaluation date.

Please be aware that during your overseas assessment, you must pass and ensure that the panel doctor did not identify any serious health conditions as defined by the WHO.

If a foreign medical examiner identified a Class A ailment, you will need to undergo the examination again unless you have obtained a “waiver of inadmissibility.” Additionally, it’s essential to note that proof of vaccine compliance is still required, even if a new medical evaluation is not necessary.

Where Can I Find a USCIS-Approved Civil Surgeon?

The USCIS website provides a roster of designated civil surgeons approved by the government. If you wish to confirm the legitimacy of the doctor you are consulting, you can directly inquire during your appointment.

When to Submit Form I-693

1.Expediting Status Adjustment with Form I-693

To expedite the process of adjusting status, it is generally recommended to include Form I-693. Submitting a complete application package enhances your chances of prompt approval by USCIS officials.

2.Optimal Application Strategy: Form I-693 and Form I-485

CitizenPath advises clients to submit Form I-693 along with the I-485 form for optimal results. Typically, USCIS considers the evidentiary validity of a signed Form I-693 for two years from the date of the civil surgeon’s signature.

3.Medical Examination Optional for Form I-485: USCIS Policy

USCIS currently does not require Form I-693 when filing Form I-485, making the medical examination optional. Nonetheless, some applicants may choose to submit it during their in-person interview. In certain cases, USCIS may waive the interview requirement on a case-by-case basis.

4.Consequences of Omitting Medical Examination Results

Failure to include the results of your medical examination may lead USCIS to issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), potentially delaying the processing of your application.

5.Validity and Requirements of Form I-693

Immigration medical examination results are usually valid for two years. According to USCIS guidelines, Form I-693 remains valid if signed by a civil surgeon within 60 days before filing the immigration benefit application and if USCIS reviews the application within two years of the civil surgeon’s signature.

6.Mandatory Medical Examination Conducted by USCIS-Approved Civil Surgeon

A medical examination conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon in the United States is mandatory. The examination findings must be documented on Form I-693. Further details regarding the medical examination can be found in the Form I-693 guidelines.