How Long Do Medical Exams Take for a Green Card?
The short answer is that the exam itself is usually quick, but the entire process—from scheduling to receiving results—can take several days or even weeks, depending on different factors.
What Is the Green Card Medical Exam?
The Green Card medical exam is an immigration requirement conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon (inside the U.S.) or a panel physician (outside the U.S.). Its purpose is to ensure that applicants do not have medical conditions that could make them inadmissible under U.S. immigration law.
The exam results are recorded on Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, which is submitted to USCIS as part of your Green Card application.
How Long Does the Medical Exam Appointment Take?
The Appointment Itself
The actual medical exam appointment typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. In some cases, it may take slightly longer if additional tests or vaccinations are needed.
During the appointment, the doctor will usually:
- Review your medical history
- Check your vital signs (height, weight, blood pressure)
- Perform a basic physical examination
- Review your vaccination records
- Order required lab tests (blood test, urine test, X-ray if needed)
The exam is generally straightforward and not invasive.
How Long Do Medical Tests Take?
While the physical exam is quick, lab tests are what usually extend the timeline.
Common Tests and Their Timelines
- Blood test (for syphilis and sometimes other conditions):
- Results usually take 1–3 business days
- Urine test (for gonorrhea):
- Results often take 1–3 business days
- Chest X-ray (for tuberculosis, if required):
- Same day or 1–2 days, depending on the clinic
If all test results come back normal, the process moves quickly. If something needs further evaluation, additional time may be required.
How Long Does It Take to Receive Form I-693?
Once all test results are back, the civil surgeon completes Form I-693.
Typical Timeframe
- Same day (rare, only if no lab tests are required)
- 3–10 business days in most cases
- Up to 2 weeks if tests are delayed or additional vaccines are needed
Some clinics give you a sealed envelope with Form I-693 to submit to USCIS, while others may send it directly to immigration if requested.
Total Timeline: From Start to Finish
Here’s a realistic breakdown of the full timeline:
- Scheduling the appointment:
- 1–7 days (can be longer in busy cities)
- Medical exam appointment:
- 30–60 minutes
- Lab test results:
- 1–5 business days
- Completion of Form I-693:
- 1–7 days after results are received
Total time:
About 5 days to 2 weeks on average
In some cases, it can take longer if complications arise.
What Can Delay the Green Card Medical Exam?
Several factors can extend the process:
Missing Vaccination Records
If you don’t have proof of required vaccines, the doctor may:
- Administer missing vaccines (which can add time)
- Ask you to return for follow-up doses
Additional Medical Testing
If something unusual appears in your test results, further evaluation may be required, especially for tuberculosis.
Clinic Backlogs
In large cities or during peak immigration periods, civil surgeons may be booked weeks in advance.
Incomplete Documentation
Forgetting documents like:
- Government-issued ID
- Vaccination records
- USCIS forms
can result in rescheduling and delays.
How to Prepare and Speed Up the Process
To avoid unnecessary delays, follow these tips:
- Schedule your appointment early
- Bring all vaccination records (translated if necessary)
- Bring a valid photo ID
- Follow clinic instructions before lab tests
- Ask how long results typically take
- Choose an experienced USCIS-approved civil surgeon
Being prepared can reduce the timeline significantly.
Does the Medical Exam Expire?
Yes. Form I-693 is valid for a limited time.
Currently:
- The medical exam is valid for 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs the form
- It must be submitted to USCIS within the allowed timeframe of your application
Always check current USCIS rules, as policies can change.
Is the Medical Exam Different for Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing?
Yes, slightly.
- Adjustment of Status (inside the U.S.):
- Exam is done by a USCIS civil surgeon
- Consular Processing (outside the U.S.):
- Exam is done by a panel physician approved by the U.S. embassy
Timelines are similar, but consular processing may take longer depending on embassy procedures.