A Guide to Form I-693: Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record

A Guide to Form I-693: Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record

When applying for a green card from within the United States, applicants are required to meet certain public health standards to prove they are not inadmissible on health grounds. This is done by submitting Form I-693, officially known as the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. In this article, we’ll explain what Form I-693 is, how to file it, and answer some frequently asked questions to guide you through the process.

What Is Form I-693?

Form I-693 is a critical part of the green card application process, used to demonstrate that an applicant does not pose a public health risk. To ensure compliance with public health standards, a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon must conduct a medical examination and document the results on this form. This medical exam includes a review of vaccinations and checks for certain medical conditions that could make someone inadmissible to the United States.

Recent Update: Indefinite Validity of Form I-693

Effective April 4, 2024, there has been a significant update regarding the expiration of Form I-693. Any Form I-693 that was properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, no longer expires and can be used indefinitely. This change eliminates concerns about the form expiring before an applicant’s green card processing is complete, making it easier to meet the health-related requirements.

Who Needs to File Form I-693?

Anyone applying for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident from within the U.S. will likely need to file Form I-693. The form ensures that applicants meet the public health criteria outlined in Section 212(a)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

However, some applicants, such as those adjusting from a K-1 fiancé visa, may not need to complete a new medical exam if they were recently examined overseas.

U.S. Immigration Medical Exam Criteria

To successfully file Form I-693, applicants must meet the following public health requirements:

• Be examined by a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon who follows regulations set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
• Ensure that Form I-693 is signed by the civil surgeon no more than two years before filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
• Show proof of required vaccinations, including the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Confirm that they do not have any Class A medical conditions, such as certain communicable diseases (e.g., tuberculosis, syphilis), or behaviors associated with drug addiction or mental disorders that may pose a danger to others.

Failure to meet these criteria could result in a Request for Evidence (RFE) or denial of the green card application.

How to File Form I-693

Filing Form I-693 begins with scheduling a medical exam with an authorized civil surgeon. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to complete the process:

1. Schedule the Medical Exam: Locate a civil surgeon through the USCIS website or by referral. Make an appointment for the exam.
2. Prepare the Form: Before attending the exam, complete the “Information About You” section of Form I-693. Do not sign the form until your civil surgeon instructs you to do so.
3. Bring Medical Records: Bring your vaccination records, including proof of a full COVID-19 vaccination series (2 doses of Moderna or Pfizer, or 1 dose of Johnson & Johnson) and any other relevant medical history.
4. Attend the Medical Exam: The civil surgeon will conduct the required medical examination, review your records, and complete the rest of Form I-693. If additional tests or vaccinations are required, you may need to return for follow-up appointments.
5. Receive the Sealed Form: After the exam, the civil surgeon will provide the completed Form I-693 in a sealed envelope. USCIS will only accept the form in its original sealed state, so do not open the envelope.

Submitting Form I-693

There are several ways to submit Form I-693:

• With your green card application (Form I-485): This is the most efficient method, as it can prevent delays by allowing USCIS to process both forms simultaneously.
• After filing Form I-485: You can mail Form I-693 separately after submitting your green card application.
• At your interview: If USCIS schedules an interview for your green card, you may bring the sealed Form I-693 to the appointment.

Processing Times

While Form I-693 has no filing fee, the medical exam costs range from $100 to $500, depending on the location and specific medical services required. The exam must be completed and signed by the civil surgeon no more than two years before submitting Form I-485.

FAQs About Form I-693

1. Is there a fee to file Form I-693?
No, there is no USCIS filing fee for Form I-693. However, you must pay for the medical exam itself, which typically ranges from $100 to $500.

2. Can I submit Form I-693 after filing Form I-485?
Yes, you can file Form I-693 separately after submitting Form I-485, though USCIS recommends submitting them together to avoid delays.

3. What happens if I fail the medical exam?
If your medical exam reveals a Class A medical condition (such as certain communicable diseases or drug addiction), USCIS may issue an RFE or deny your green card application.

4. Do I need to get vaccinated to file Form I-693?
Yes, the medical exam includes a review of required vaccinations, including proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Failing to provide vaccination records can delay or affect your application.

5. Do I have to use a specific civil surgeon?
Yes, only civil surgeons authorized by USCIS can conduct the medical exam required for Form I-693.

Filing Form I-693 is a vital step in the green card process, and understanding its requirements can help you avoid delays or denials. Be sure to consult with your civil surgeon, bring all relevant documents to your exam, and file the form promptly with your adjustment of status application. If you need further guidance, consider reaching out to an immigration professional for assistance.

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