Immigration Physicals: What You Need to Know

Navigating the immigration process can feel like wandering through a maze — but one of its most important checkpoints is the immigration physical exam.

1. What Is an Immigration Physical?

An immigration physical is a comprehensive medical evaluation conducted by a designated civil surgeon approved by U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS). It serves two primary purposes:

Assess general health — to confirm you’re up to date on recommended vaccines and in overall good condition.

Screen for communicable diseases — to protect public health and identify conditions that might affect admissibility under U.S. immigration law.

2. Who Needs One — And When?

• Green Card applicants (Form I-485, Adjustment of Status)

• Diversity Visa lottery winners

• Refugees, asylees, and certain U nonimmigrant visa applicants

• Green Card holders renewing their status in specific global situations

Typically, you’ll take your exam as part of or shortly before completing USCIS paperwork. It’s ideal to schedule it 3–6 months before any USCIS interview or appointment.

3. What the Exam Includes

An immigration physical is more thorough than your routine check‑up:

• Medical history: doctor reviews your past illnesses, medications, surgeries, and ongoing conditions.

• Physical examination: basic vital signs, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin check, vision, and any specific systems keyed to past medical issues.

• Communicable disease screening: typically tests for tuberculosis (via skin test or chest X‑ray), syphilis, and gonorrhea.

• Vaccinations: Must meet the latest CDC immunization guidelines for immigration applicants:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)

• DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)

• Varicella

• Influenza (if the season is active)

• Polio

• COVID‑19 (as currently recommended)

• Mental health and substance use screening: to identify serious mental disorders, substance abuse, or any history that may affect admissibility.

Once completed, the civil surgeon fills out Form I‑693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record), provides a sealed envelope, and instructs you not to open it.

4. What to Bring to Your Appointment

Being prepared streamlines the process and prevents delays. Here’s your immigration physical checklist:

• Photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or other government-issued ID)

• USCIS Form I‑693 (completed as much as possible in advance)

• Vaccination records (especially childhood and recent immunizations)

• Medical records of chronic conditions or prior tests (e.g., diabetes labs, mental health protein)

• Medication list (name, dosage, frequency)

• Chest X‑ray or TB screen results, if recently performed and relevant

5. Vaccinations: What You May Need

The CDC periodically updates required immunizations. As of 2025, common requirements include:

VaccineNotesMMRMandatory unless proven immunity from prior shotsDTaP/TdapAdults need booster dosesVaricellaRequired for those without immunityInfluenzaSeasonal requirement during flu seasonCOVID‑19As per latest CDC recommendationPolio, Hepatitis A/B, HPVSometimes needed depending on age and health status

Your civil surgeon will review your immunization history and administer any missing vaccines during the exam.

6. Common Questions During Exam

What if I test positive for TB?

If you test positive on a TB skin test or blood test, but the chest X‑ray is clear, you may not need treatment before your interview. However, if the X‑ray indicates active TB, you’ll undergo further treatment and evaluation.

Do I need to wait for vaccine immunity?

No. If you receive an immunization during the exam, it will be documented on Form I‑693. You don’t need to wait for full immunity before submission, but full dosing schedules must be completed eventually.

7. Understanding Form I‑693

Form I‑693 is central to the immigration physical. It includes:

• Your personal and medical history

• Physical exam findings

• Test results and vaccine administration details

Once sealed in the official envelope, submit it with your USCIS packet or bring it to your interview — never open or tamper with it. An unsealed Form I‑693 may be rejected.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use any doctor for the physical?A: No, only USCIS-approved civil surgeons can perform the exam. Apex Urgent Clinic is one such facility committed to efficient, accurate immigration physicals.

Q: How long is the exam valid?A: Form I‑693 remains valid for two years from the date the civil surgeon signs it.

Q: Is the exam covered by insurance?A: It depends. Many insurers — especially those with USCIS-accepted plans — may cover parts of the exam. Additional vaccine costs or X-rays might be out-of-pocket.

Q: Is the exam painful or complicated?A: Not at all. It’s a routine visit involving common procedures — vaccines, blood draws, a chest X-ray, and a check-up.

Q: How soon can I get my appointment?A: At Apex Urgent Clinic, many immigration medical exams are available same-day or within a few days, depending on demand. You’ll leave with Form I‑693 in hand.

9. Why Choose Apex Urgent Clinic?

• ✅ USCIS-certified civil surgeons — Fully qualified and experienced

• ⏱ Fast appointments — Often same-day or within a few business days

• 📋 One-stop shop — Exam, vaccines, testing, and paperwork all in one visit

• 🧾 Transparent pricing — Clear upfront cost estimates available before your visit

• 🧵 Patient-first service — Friendly staff to guide you through every step

10. Your Next Steps

1. Gather your records — medical history, vaccination history, ID.

2. Schedule your appointment at Apex Urgent Clinic.

3. Complete the exam & vaccines — we’ll fill out and seal Form I‑693.

4. Submit to USCIS with confidence, knowing you’ve met their health requirements.

   
   

Ready to Schedule?

Immigration physicals are a vital part of your journey — and at Apex Urgent Clinic, we make the process simple, efficient, and reassuring. Don’t risk delays or complications; let our USCIS-authorized team guide you through a seamless medical exam.

➡️ Call us today at [Clinic Phone Number] or➡️ Book online via our website to reserve your spot now. Secure your future — start with a certified immigration physical.

FAQs at a Glance

Can I use a regular doctor for this exam?

• No. Must be a USCIS-certified civil surgeon like our doctors at Apex.

How long is the Form I‑693 valid?

• Two years from the exam date.

Are vaccinations included?

• Yes — we’ll administer any CDC-required immunizations you’re missing.

Do you bill insurance?

• We work with many insurers; otherwise, we offer transparent self-pay pricing.

What if I have a chronic illness?

• Manage chronic conditions? Bring your records — we’ll review them and advise if further evaluation is necessary.

How quickly can I be seen?

• Most appointments available same- or next-day. Call or book online for availability.

Final Word

An immigration physical might not be the most thrilling step of your immigration journey — but it’s essential. With the support of Apex Urgent Clinic, you can check it off confidently and focus on the bigger picture — starting your new life in the U.S.

Schedule your immigration physical today and set your application up for success.