USCIS Medical Exam (I-693): Complete Guide
Everything about the immigration medical exam — finding a civil surgeon, required vaccinations, costs, validity period, and submitting Form I-693.
What Is the I-693 Medical Exam?
Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is a required medical examination for anyone applying for adjustment of status (I-485) to become a U.S. permanent resident. The exam ensures that applicants do not have any communicable diseases that would pose a public health risk and verifies that required vaccinations are up to date.
Finding a Civil Surgeon
The medical exam must be performed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon — your regular doctor cannot complete this form. Use the USCIS Find a Doctor tool to locate designated civil surgeons near you. Prices vary significantly, so it is worth calling several offices for quotes.
What Happens During the Exam
- Physical examination: General health assessment including height, weight, blood pressure, vision, and hearing
- Mental health screening: Brief assessment for mental health conditions that could pose a risk
- Blood tests: Screening for syphilis and gonorrhea; tuberculosis blood test (IGRA) or TB skin test (PPD)
- Chest X-ray: Required if TB blood test is positive
- Vaccination review: The doctor reviews your vaccination records and administers any missing required vaccines
Required Vaccinations
The CDC-mandated vaccination requirements for immigration include:
- Mumps, Measles, Rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap)
- Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Influenza (seasonal — only required during flu season)
- COVID-19
- Pneumococcal, Rotavirus, Meningococcal, Hib (age-appropriate)
Tip: Bring all existing vaccination records to your appointment. Every vaccine you can prove you already received is one less you need to pay for. This can save $100–$300.
Costs
The exam itself costs $200–$500 depending on location. Vaccinations are billed separately and can add $100–$500 depending on how many you need. Most health insurance plans do not cover immigration medical exams, but some do cover the vaccinations themselves. Call your insurance provider to check.
Validity and Timing
Form I-693 is valid for 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs it. It must have been signed no more than 60 days before you filed I-485, or any time after filing. If your I-485 processing takes longer than 2 years, USCIS may request a new medical exam.
You can submit the I-693 with your I-485 filing, or bring it to your interview. Submitting it upfront typically avoids delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my regular doctor for the immigration medical exam?
No. Only USCIS-designated civil surgeons can complete Form I-693. Use the USCIS Find a Doctor tool to locate one near you.
What if I have a positive TB test?
A positive TB blood test or skin test does not automatically disqualify you. You will need a chest X-ray to check for active tuberculosis. If the X-ray is clear, you may be cleared with a diagnosis of latent TB. If active TB is found, you must complete treatment before your I-485 can be approved.
Should I submit I-693 with my I-485 or bring it to the interview?
Submitting with your I-485 is recommended. It avoids delays and RFEs. If you wait until the interview, your form may expire if there are scheduling delays. However, if your I-485 may take more than 2 years, waiting can avoid needing to redo the exam.
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