What Is Form I-693 and Why Is It Important
What Is Form I-693?
Form I-693 is a document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that certifies you have undergone a medical examination and received the necessary vaccinations as required under U.S. immigration law.
The purpose of this form is to prove that you do not have any health conditions that would make you inadmissible to the United States. It ensures that those seeking permanent residence are free from serious communicable diseases and have the vaccinations required for public health safety.
Who Needs Form I-693?
You will generally need to submit Form I-693 if you are:
- Applying for a green card (adjustment of status) from within the U.S.
- Required to demonstrate that you are not inadmissible on health-related grounds.
- Responding to a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS asking for a medical exam report.
If you're applying for a green card through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad, you usually do not need Form I-693. Instead, you’ll undergo a similar medical exam through an authorized panel physician abroad.
When Should You Submit Form I-693?
You have two options:
- Submit it with your Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): This is often the easiest and most efficient way.
- Submit it later, in response to a USCIS request (RFE or interview): If you haven’t completed the exam yet, you can wait and bring it to your interview or respond to an RFE.
How Long Is Form I-693 Valid?
As of 2024, a completed Form I-693 is valid for 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs it, as long as it was submitted to USCIS within 60 days of the signature. So, timing matters!
What Does the Medical Exam Include?
The medical exam is conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and typically includes:
1. Physical Examination
The doctor will check your general health: heart, lungs, blood pressure, and more. They’ll ask about your medical history and current conditions.
2. Vaccination Screening
You must show proof of certain vaccinations, including:
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Tetanus and Diphtheria
- Hepatitis B
- COVID-19 vaccine (now required)
If you're missing any, the doctor may offer to administer them during the visit.
3. Tuberculosis (TB) Test
For applicants 2 years and older, a tuberculosis test is required. If results are positive, further testing like a chest X-ray may be needed.
4. Blood and Urine Tests
These tests are used to screen for syphilis and gonorrhea (required for applicants 15 years and older).
How to Find a Civil Surgeon
Only USCIS-authorized civil surgeons can conduct the I-693 medical exam. You can find a qualified doctor near you using the USCIS Find a Doctor tool on their official website.
Tip: Always confirm that the doctor is still a current USCIS-designated civil surgeon before scheduling your exam.
What to Bring to the Appointment
To ensure your medical exam goes smoothly, make sure to bring:
- A government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, or green card)
- Vaccination records
- Form I-693 (you can print it and fill out Part 1 only—leave the rest for the doctor)
- Payment for the medical exam (varies by doctor, usually $200–$400)
What Happens After the Exam?
Once the civil surgeon completes the examination:
- They will fill out the rest of Form I-693.
- They will place it in a sealed envelope—DO NOT open it! USCIS will only accept the form if it is in a sealed envelope.
- You can submit it with your application or bring it to your green card interview.
Some doctors also give you a copy for your records. It’s a good idea to keep that for reference.