U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated its guidance regarding the validity of Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, for individuals applying for permanent residence in the United States. Effective June 11, 2025, this policy change applies to all pending or future Form I-485 applications and significantly revises how long a submitted medical exam remains valid.
Key Change: Validity Limited to Pending Applications Only
Under the revised policy, a Form I-693 signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, is only valid while the associated Form I-485 adjustment of status application is pending. If that application is later withdrawn or denied, the previously submitted Form I-693 is no longer considered valid and cannot be reused in a new application.
This means that if an individual submits a new Form I-485, they must also submit a newly completed Form I-693, even if they previously provided a valid medical exam.
Background: Health-Related Grounds of Inadmissibility
Most adjustment of status applicants are required to undergo a medical exam to prove they are not inadmissible based on public health grounds. USCIS uses Form I-693 to verify that applicants are free from communicable diseases, have received required vaccinations, and meet other health-related requirements.
While the form is typically submitted alongside Form I-485, USCIS may also request a Form I-693 in other cases, especially when there is reason to believe an applicant may pose a public health risk.
Policy Reversal from April 2024
In April 2024, USCIS had updated the Policy Manual to state that a Form I-693 signed on or after November 1, 2023, would be valid indefinitely, allowing applicants to use the same form for future immigration filings. However, after further evaluation, USCIS determined that this policy was overly broad and could compromise public health safeguards.
The new policy ensures that applicants undergo timely and up-to-date medical evaluations, especially as public health risks evolve. By limiting the validity of Form I-693 to the pending application, USCIS aims to better protect public health and align with best medical practices.
Summary of Key Dates and Implications
Applies to: All Form I-485 applications pending or filed on or after June 11, 2025
Forms I-693 signed on or after November 1, 2023, are only valid while the corresponding I-485 is pending
If your I-485 is denied or withdrawn, you must obtain a new Form I-693 for any future application
If you’re unsure how this update may affect your green card application or need help preparing your medical documentation, it’s advisable to speak with a qualified immigration attorney. Let the experts from Finberg Firm help you.
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