Navigating the I-693 USCIS Form: A Comprehensive Guide

The process of becoming a lawful permanent resident in the United States can be complicated and difficult. One of the many steps and forms required is the completion of Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This form ensures that applicants meet the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) health and vaccination requirements. In this article, we will go over Form I-693 in detail, including its purpose, how to complete it, and the role it plays in the green card application process. Understanding the complexities of this important form will better equip you to navigate your path to permanent residency in the United States.

The Purpose of Form I-693: Protecting Public Health and Ensuring Admissibility

The Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, Form I-693, plays an important role in the green card application process by addressing two primary concerns: protecting public health and ensuring applicants' admissibility to the United States.

Protecting Public Health:

The United States has a vested interest in preserving its citizens' health and well-being. One way to accomplish this is to ensure that immigrants seeking permanent residency do not have communicable diseases or medical conditions that could endanger public health. Form I-693 aids in the identification of such conditions, allowing authorities to address and manage potential risks effectively.

Ensuring Admissibility:

Form I-693, in addition to protecting public health, is critical in determining an applicant's admissibility to the United States. Certain medical conditions or diseases may make an individual inadmissible to the United States under immigration laws. Among these are, but are not limited to:

1- Tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea are examples of communicable diseases of public health importance.

2- Physical or mental disorders that may endanger the applicant's or others' property, safety, or welfare.

3- Substance abuse or addiction, including dependence on drugs or alcohol.

Applicants demonstrate that they do not have any medical conditions that would make them inadmissible by completing Form I-693 and undergoing a thorough medical examination. This examination also ensures that they meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) required vaccination standards, which contributes to public health protection.

Who Needs to Complete Form I-693: Understanding the Eligibility Criteria

Individuals seeking an adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) in the United States must submit Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Understanding the eligibility criteria for Form I-693 is critical in determining whether this form is required as part of your application process.

Generally, applicants in the following categories need to complete Form I-693:

- Individuals applying for adjustment of status in order to obtain a green card under various categories, such as family-based, employment-based, or other special immigrant categories, must submit Form I-693.

- Refugees Seeking Adjustment of Status: Refugees who have been in the United States for one year and are applying for adjustment of status to become lawful permanent residents must complete Form I-693, even if they had a medical examination prior to arrival

- Applicants with a K (fiancé(e) or spouse of a U.S. citizen) or V (spouse or child of a lawful permanent resident) nonimmigrant visa who are adjusting their status to become permanent residents must also submit Form I-693.

- Certain Nonimmigrant Visa Holders: If the USCIS specifically requests it, some nonimmigrant visa holders, such as those seeking a change of status or an extension of stay, may be required to submit Form I-693.

It's worth noting that applicants who are already lawful permanent residents and are only applying to remove conditions on their residency (Form I-751 for marriage-based green cards or Form I-829 for entrepreneur green cards) usually don't need to fill out Form I-693.

Finally, understanding the eligibility criteria for Form I-693 is critical to submitting the required documentation as part of your green card application process. Most applicants for adjustment of status, as well as certain nonimmigrant visa holders, must complete Form I-693 in order to meet the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services' medical and vaccination requirements (USCIS).

Finding a Designated Civil Surgeon: The Key to a Valid I-693 Form

It is critical to have your medical examination performed by a designated civil surgeon authorized by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services when completing Form I-693. The designated civil surgeon's role is to conduct the necessary medical examination and ensure that you meet the necessary health and vaccination standards for permanent residency in the United States. Follow these steps to locate a designated civil surgeon in your area:

1. Go to the USCIS website: Navigate to the official USCIS website and select the . "Find a Doctor" tool, which is specifically designed to assist applicants in locating authorized civil surgeons.

2. Enter your address: In the search bar, enter your ZIP code, city, or state, and then click "Search" to generate a list of designated civil surgeons near you.

3. Examine the following items: The generated list will include the names, addresses, and phone numbers of the designated civil surgeons in your area. Take the time to go over the list and choose the doctor who best fits your needs.

4. Schedule a meeting: To schedule an appointment for your medical examination, contact the civil surgeon's office of your choice. Keep in mind that appointment availability varies, so plan ahead of time to avoid any delays in your application process.

5. Inquire about charges: The cost of a medical examination varies depending on the civil surgeon's practice and any required tests or vaccinations. To avoid surprises and ensure that you are financially prepared, it is a good idea to inquire about costs during the scheduling process.

Decoding the Medical Examination: What to Expect During Your Appointment

A crucial step in the green card application process is the medical examination for Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Here's an overview of what to expect during your appointment with a designated civil surgeon to help you prepare.

1. Bring the necessary documents to your appointment, including a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driver's license), vaccination records, and a copy of Form I-693. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, bring any relevant medical records with you. If any of your documents are in a language other than English, it's essential to obtain certified translation services for those documents before your appointment. Having accurately translated documents will ensure a smooth and efficient appointment, allowing the designated civil surgeon to properly assess your medical history and vaccination records during the examination.

Do you have inquiries regarding certified translations? We invite you to review our informative article, where we address various questions related to certified translations.

2. Physical examination: A general physical examination will be performed by the designated civil surgeon to assess your overall health. Checking your height, weight, blood pressure, and other vital signs, as well as reviewing your medical history, may be included.

3. Mental health evaluation: The civil surgeon will assess your mental health by inquiring about your medical history, any current mental health conditions, and any previous issues that may have hampered your admission to the United States.

4. Tuberculosis (TB) screening: You will almost certainly be subjected to a tuberculosis screening, which may include a skin test or a blood test (IGRA). If the initial test is positive, or if you have a history of tuberculosis, a chest X-ray may be required to rule out any active infection.

5. Syphilis blood test: Applicants aged 15 and up will be tested for syphilis. If you test positive, you may have to go through treatment before your application can be processed.

6. Vaccination evaluation: The civil surgeon will review your vaccination records and administer any missing vaccines required for immigration purposes by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

7. Completion of Form I-693: Following the examination, the designated civil surgeon will complete, sign, and seal Form I-693 in an envelope. The sealed envelope must be submitted to USCIS with your adjustment of status application ( Form I-485) or brought to your interview.

You can be better prepared and feel more at ease throughout the I-693 process if you know what to expect during your medical examination. To ensure a smooth and successful medical examination experience, bring all necessary documents, ask questions if you have any concerns, and follow the guidance provided by the designated civil surgeon.

Mandatory Vaccinations: A Comprehensive List of Required Immunizations

Applicants must meet the vaccination requirements set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as part of the medical examination for Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (CDC). The designated civil surgeon will review your vaccination records and, if necessary, administer any missing vaccines. The following is a comprehensive list of immunizations required for green card applicants:

- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): The MMR vaccine typically requires two doses, with the first administered on or after the first birthday and the second administered at least 28 days after the first.

- Polio: Depending on the applicant's age and vaccination history, an inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) or an oral polio vaccine (OPV) is required.

- Tetanus and Diphtheria Toxoids: Applicants must have received a primary series of tetanus and diphtheria toxoids, as well as a booster dose, within the last ten years.

- Pertussis: For applicants who have never received a pertussis vaccine, such as Tdap, a single dose is required.

- Hib: This vaccine is required for children under the age of five, with the number of doses determined by the age at which the vaccination series began.

Hepatitis A vaccination is required for children aged 12 months to 18 years.

- Hepatitis B: All applicants must receive the Hepatitis B vaccine, with the number of doses determined by the age at which the vaccination series began.

- Rotavirus vaccination: This is required for infants aged 6 to 32 weeks.

- Meningococcal disease: Applicants aged 2 months to 55 years must have the meningococcal vaccine, with specific age-based recommendations.

- Varicella (chickenpox): All applicants who do not have evidence of immunity from a previous infection or vaccination must receive the varicella vaccine.

- Pneumococcal disease: The pneumococcal vaccine is required for children under the age of two and adults 65 and older, with age and risk factor recommendations varying.

- Seasonal influenza vaccine: During the flu season, all applicants aged six months and older must have the flu vaccine (typically October through March).

These vaccination requirements are subject to change, with specific recommendations based on the applicant's age and risk factors. Always consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information, and during your medical examination, follow the guidance provided by the designated civil surgeon.

I-693 Validity and Submission Timeline

When applying for an adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident in the United States, the validity of Form I-693 is critical. Maintaining the validity of your Form I-693 throughout the application process can help you avoid delays and the need for a new medical examination. Here's what you need to know about Form I-693's validity and submission deadline:

How long is I-693 valid?

Form I-693 is generally valid for two years from the date of the civil surgeon's signature. This means that the form will be valid for two years from the date the designated civil surgeon signed and completed it.

Scheduling your medical examination: It is critical to schedule your medical examination at an appropriate time to ensure that your Form I-693 remains valid throughout the application process. You should try to schedule the examination around the time you plan to submit your adjustment of status application (Form I-485) or when you expect to be interviewed.

Form I-693 Submission: Form I-693 can be submitted with your initial adjustment of status application or later if USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) or if you are instructed to bring it to your interview. When submitting the form, keep in mind the two-year validity period. Understanding the validity of Form I-693 allows you to better plan your medical examination and ensure that the form remains valid throughout the green card application process. Always keep an eye out for changes in USCIS policies and consult the official USCIS website for the most up-to-date information. If you have concerns or require guidance specific to your situation, it is advisable to consult an experienced immigration attorney who can provide personalized assistance and help you navigate the complexities of the application process.

The Cost of the Medical Examination: Planning for Expenses

The required medical examination for Form I-693 is a critical step in the green card application process. It's critical to budget for the examination costs, which can vary depending on the designated civil surgeon's practice, your location, and any additional tests or vaccinations required. Here are some suggestions for budgeting for medical examination expenses:

Understand the costs: The cost of a medical examination typically includes the examination itself, laboratory tests (such as blood tests and tuberculosis screening), and any necessary vaccinations. Additional charges may apply if additional tests or treatments are required due to a specific medical condition, or if you require a waiver for certain vaccinations.

Compare civil surgeons: Because designated civil surgeons set their own fees, costs can vary from one practice to the next. Calling several civil surgeons in your area to inquire about their fees will allow you to make an informed decision based on both cost and availability.

Consider additional tests or vaccinations: If you have an incomplete vaccination record or require specific tests due to your medical history, the overall cost of the medical examination may be higher. To get an accurate estimate of the total cost, discuss your situation with the civil surgeon's office during the scheduling process.

Payment strategy: Prepare to pay for the medical exam at the time of your appointment, as most civil surgeons require payment in advance. Payment methods may differ, so it's critical to inquire about accepted payment methods when scheduling your exam.

Consider the following: Some health insurance plans may cover a portion of the costs associated with medical exams and vaccinations. Check with your insurance provider to see if any of these costs are covered under your policy. You can avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smoother green card application process by budgeting for the medical examination for Form I-693. Make sure to research and compare civil surgeons, understand the potential costs, and account for any additional tests or vaccinations that may be required based on your specific situation.

Navigating Vaccination Waivers: When and How to Request an Exemption

In some cases, green card applicants may be unable to meet the vaccination requirements established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for Form I-693. Applicants may request a vaccination waiver in certain circumstances. Here's a rundown of when and how to apply for an exemption:

1. Waiver eligibility: Vaccination waivers may be granted under certain conditions, including:

a. Medical contraindications:If a vaccine is medically contraindicated for you (i.e., it would endanger your health), you may be granted a waiver. The designated civil surgeon must make this determination based on your medical history and examination.

b. Religious or moral convictions: You may request a waiver if you object to vaccinations because of sincerely held religious or moral beliefs. You must, however, provide a detailed explanation of your objection and demonstrate that your beliefs are genuine and consistent with your overall lifestyle.

c. Vaccine unavailability: If a required vaccine is temporarily or permanently unavailable in your area, you may be granted a waiver.

2. How to Apply for a Waiver:

a. Medical exemption: If the designated civil surgeon determines that a vaccine is medically contraindicated for you, Form I-693 will be annotated accordingly. When reviewing your application, the USCIS will take this information into account.

b. Religious or moral convictions waiver: To request a waiver based on religious or moral convictions, submit Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, along with a detailed explanation of your beliefs and any supporting documentation. The USCIS will review your request and determine whether or not your objection is eligible for an exemption.

c. Vaccine unavailability waiver: If a required vaccine is not available, the designated civil surgeon will annotate Form I-693 to reflect this. When reviewing your application, the USCIS will consider this information.

Please keep in mind that approval of a vaccination waiver is not guaranteed and is at the sole discretion of USCIS. Furthermore, a waiver granted may be conditional, requiring you to receive the vaccination at a later date if your circumstances change. You can navigate the exemption process more effectively and ensure compliance with Form I-693 requirements by understanding the eligibility criteria and process for requesting a vaccination waiver. Always check the official USCIS website for the most up-to-date information and, if necessary, seek the advice of a qualified immigration attorney.

Can I Send I-693 Without RFE?

Except for the potential loss of the doctor's fee, which is normally around $350 per application, sending the I-693 form without first getting an RFE (Request for Evidence) entails very little risk. This fee will be lost if USCIS decides not to include it in your file.

What Happens After I-693 Deficiency Notice?

The I-693 is a documentation of a medical examination and immunizations. You will receive an I-693 Deficiency Notice from USCIS asking you to bring it to your interview if you neglected to submit it with your application. This reminder rather than being an indication of a problem. Don't send USCIS the I-693 just yet. You will receive additional instructions and a date to submit the medical examination if your interview is waived.

Finally, Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is essential in the green card application process because it ensures that applicants meet the necessary health and vaccination standards to reside in the United States. You can confidently approach the medical examination process and avoid potential delays in your application by familiarizing yourself with the purpose of Form I-693, understanding the eligibility criteria, locating a designated civil surgeon, preparing for the medical examination, adhering to vaccination requirements, and navigating vaccination waivers when necessary.

Remember to keep an eye out for changes in USCIS policies, to consult the official USCIS website for the most up-to-date information, and, if necessary, to seek the advice of a qualified immigration attorney. You'll be one step closer to realizing your dream of becoming a lawful permanent resident of the United States if you stay informed and well-prepared.

“We collected and distilled information on immigration for our site visitors from USCIS and other sources as a basic guide. MotaWord is a translation platform providing certified translations for immigration applicants and not a law firm. The information provided should not be construed as legal advice and might not be current. For current information please refer to the USCIS website or speak to your licensed immigration attorney.”