Immigration Services (I-693)
1. Review of Medical History
The civil surgeon will review your medical history, including any previous illnesses, conditions, surgeries, and medications you're taking. You'll be asked about any history of contagious diseases or conditions that could be a public health concern.
2. Physical Examination
A general physical examination will be performed to assess your overall health. This includes checking your:
- Height, weight, and vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature)
- Heart, lungs, and abdomen for any abnormal signs
- Skin and eyes for any indications of illness or conditions
3. Vaccination Review
USCIS requires applicants to be up-to-date on certain vaccinations to protect public health. During the exam, the doctor will review your vaccination history and determine which vaccines are required. Common vaccines for adults applying for a green card include:
- Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP)
- Polio
- Hepatitis B
- Influenza (depending on the season)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Pneumococcal
- Meningococcal (in some cases)
If you haven’t received certain vaccinations, the civil surgeon will administer them during the exam or provide guidance on completing them.
4. Tuberculosis (TB) Test
A tuberculosis (TB) test is mandatory for all applicants. This involves a blood test to check for latent tuberculosis infection. If the test shows a possible TB infection, further testing such as a chest X-ray may be required.
5. Blood and Urine Tests
Blood tests may be conducted to screen for certain conditions such as syphilis, which is a requirement for applicants to the U.S. based on the U.S. immigration health standards. Urine tests are generally done to check for any signs of urinary tract infections or other abnormalities (e.g., gonorrhea).
6. Mental Health Evaluation
The doctor may ask questions about your mental health, specifically to assess any history of conditions that could impact your ability to live independently in the U.S. Certain mental health conditions may lead to inadmissibility if they pose a threat to public safety or the ability to work.
7. Additional Tests (if needed)
Depending on your age, medical history, or any concerning symptoms, the civil surgeon may order additional tests or screenings. This might include:
- Chest X-ray (if TB test is positive)
- Blood tests for other conditions
- Referral to a specialist if an underlying medical condition requires further evaluation
8. Completion of Form I-693
After the exam is completed, the civil surgeon will fill out the Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) and seal it in an envelope. The sealed envelope is then given to you to submit to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of your green card application.