What vaccines does the USCIS require?

Stay updated on USCIS-required vaccines, including COVID-19 and flu. Learn which ones you need and how to prepare for your medical exam.

You might be wondering, Do I really need to be vaccinated against all of these? The answer is yes, but it’s not as complicated as it might seem. The USCIS has a specific list of vaccines designed to ensure everyone’s health and safety. Here are the most important ones:

1. Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)

2. Tetanus and diphtheria (that booster most of us forget every 10 years)

3. Pertussis (whooping cough)

4. Polio

5. Hepatitis A and B

6. Varicella (chickenpox)

7. Meningococcal disease

8. Pneumococcal disease (especially for older adults)

9. Influenza (if your exam falls during flu season)

10. COVID-19

Surprised by the last one? It’s no wonder. The COVID-19 vaccine was added to the list in 2021 as the pandemic reshaped how we approach public health. It’s essential to have not only the initial doses but also the recommended boosters.

What happens if you're not up to date?

Life happens, and it’s easy to lose track of vaccines. Maybe you never got the chickenpox vaccine because you had the disease as a child, or perhaps you can’t locate your vaccination records. What can you do if you’re missing any?

First, don’t panic. A USCIS-authorized civil surgeon can help you get back on track. At your medical exam, they’ll tell you what’s missing, and in many cases, they can administer the vaccine on-site. Just make sure you’re prepared with any records you do have to avoid confusion.

A crucial step: check your vaccination history

Do you remember getting vaccinated as a child at school or the local clinic? Maybe your parents saved those records in an old folder. If you’re lucky, they’re still there. If not, now is the time to request a copy from the clinic or hospital where you received your vaccinations.

Can’t find anything? Don’t worry too much. Many healthcare providers can do blood tests to check for immunity to certain diseases. While this can be more expensive, it’s a helpful option if records aren’t available.

The importance of the COVID-19 vaccine

Let’s take a moment to talk about COVID-19. Who would’ve thought just a few years ago that this virus would change our lives so dramatically? From remote work to travel requirements, everything has shifted. For the USCIS, being vaccinated against COVID-19 is more than a requirement—it’s a way to show you’re ready to join a community that values public health.

Make sure you receive a vaccine approved by the FDA or the World Health Organization (WHO). If you’re unsure about boosters, the civil surgeon will guide you.

A practical tip: don’t leave things for the last minute

A friend of mine almost missed her medical exam because she realized, just three days before, that she was missing several vaccines. You don’t need that kind of stress. Plan ahead and schedule an appointment with your doctor or a local clinic to get everything in order. Waiting until the last minute could delay your immigration process.

Common questions we all have

What if I’ve already had COVID-19?

Having COVID-19 doesn’t exempt you from vaccination. Even if you’ve developed antibodies, the USCIS requires you to complete the full vaccination schedule.

What if I’m scared of needles?

It’s more common than you think. Many people feel anxious, but remember: the discomfort of a shot lasts only seconds, while the benefits can last a lifetime.

What if I can’t get vaccinated for medical reasons?

In this case, the civil surgeon can issue an exemption. Just make sure you provide medical evidence to support your situation.

Reflecting on the role of vaccines in our lives

Sometimes we don’t fully appreciate what vaccines do for us. Think about your grandparents or great-grandparents, who lived in a time when diseases like polio or measles were far more common. Thanks to vaccines, we can live with fewer worries today.

Meeting the USCIS vaccine requirements isn’t just another box to check off—it’s also a chance to reflect on our responsibility to the community. By getting vaccinated, you’re not just protecting your health; you’re also safeguarding the people around you.

Getting ready for your medical exam doesn’t have to be stressful if you follow these steps and stay organized. In the end, this small effort will bring you closer to your goal of building a new life in the United States. Are you ready to take that step? You’ve got this!