USCIS Medical Exam: What to Expect, Required Documents, and How to Prepare

Introduction

For anyone applying for a U.S. Green Card, the USCIS medical exam is one of the most important steps in the immigration process. It can feel overwhelming at first—especially if you’re unsure what happens during the exam or what documents you need to bring. The good news is that once you understand the process, the visit becomes simple and straightforward. This medical exam isn’t something to fear; it’s a routine checkup designed to confirm that applicants meet the health requirements set by U.S. immigration authorities.

The exam must be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon, a licensed medical professional authorized to perform it. If you’re preparing for your appointment soon, this guide will help you understand exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and how to avoid delays in your application.

What the USCIS Medical Exam Includes

The exam checks your overall health and ensures you don’t have any conditions that could pose public health concerns. While the details may vary slightly depending on your age and vaccination history, the exam typically includes:

Physical Examination

This is similar to a general health checkup. The doctor will review your medical history, ask about medications, and examine basic functions such as your heart, lungs, abdomen, eyes, ears, and throat. This part of the exam is usually quick and painless.

Vaccination Review

USCIS requires applicants to have specific vaccinations based on age and medical history. Common vaccines include:

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td or Tdap)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Influenza (during flu season)
• Hepatitis B
• COVID-19 vaccine

If you’re missing any vaccines, the civil surgeon can administer them on the same day. Bringing your vaccination records can help prevent unnecessary repeat shots.

Tuberculosis (TB) Testing

TB screening is required for all applicants ages two and older. Most civil surgeons use a blood test (IGRA test), which provides accurate results and doesn’t require a return visit for reading. If the test is positive, you may be asked to complete a chest X-ray.

Blood Tests

The doctor may perform additional blood tests to screen for certain conditions required by USCIS. These screenings help determine whether any health issues could affect admissibility.

Mental and Behavioral Health Screening

The doctor will ask a few basic questions to check for any mental or behavioral conditions that may require documentation. This is not an evaluation or therapy session—just a general screening.

Documents You Need to Bring

Arriving prepared helps your appointment go smoothly. Make sure you bring:

• Government-issued photo ID (passport, national ID, or driver’s license)
• Vaccination records
• Any previous medical records related to chronic conditions
• USCIS Form I-693 (if the doctor asks you to print it beforehand)
• A list of medications you currently take
• Payment for the exam and any vaccines, as insurance typically does not cover this exam

If you don’t have certain vaccination records, don’t worry. Many applicants find themselves in the same situation, and the civil surgeon can update missing vaccines during the visit.

How to Prepare for the Exam

Preparing for your USCIS medical exam doesn’t require anything unusual, but these simple steps can make your visit easier:

Gather your medical history

If you’ve been treated for any long-term conditions or surgeries, bring summaries or relevant documents. This helps the civil surgeon complete your exam accurately.

Know your vaccination history

Look for records from childhood or previous doctors. Even partial records help avoid unnecessary shots.

Get a good night’s rest

Showing up relaxed and well-rested helps the appointment feel easier.

Arrive early

Paperwork sometimes takes 10–15 minutes, so arriving early helps prevent delays.

What Happens After the Exam

Once the exam is complete, the civil surgeon fills out Form I-693, which is the official USCIS medical examination document. You will receive the completed form sealed in an envelope. Do not open it—USCIS will reject any opened or tampered envelope.

Some clinics also provide a copy for your personal records, and it’s highly recommended to keep one safely.

If you’re submitting your Green Card application, include the sealed Form I-693 with your application package. If your attorney handles your case, they will submit it on your behalf.

How Long the Results Are Valid

USCIS medical exam results are typically valid for two years, as long as the civil surgeon signed the form no more than 60 days before you filed your Green Card application. This means timing matters—many applicants schedule the exam shortly before submitting their application to avoid delays.

Final Thoughts

The USCIS medical exam is an essential step in the immigration process, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Once you know what to expect and what documents to bring, the entire experience becomes manageable and straightforward. The goal of the exam is simply to confirm that you meet the health standards required for living in the United States.