How to Prepare For Your Immigration Physical Exam

As part of the immigration process or journey to your permanent residents or green card, you must undergo an immigration physical exam. To ensure that you are prepared for your immigration physical exam, our nationwide immigration law firm will walk you through what to expect and what questions you might have about your exam.

If you need additional guidance in obtaining your green card or have questions, our immigration law firm in New Jersey can help you reach your American dream. We work with clients locally, nationwide, and internationally.

Why do you have to have an immigration physical exam?

There are a few reasons why you have to have an immigration physical exam.

To protect public health. The exam helps to ensure that you do not have any infectious diseases that could threaten public health in the United States.
To determine your admissibility to the United States. The exam can identify any health conditions that could make you inadmissible to the United States, such as drug addiction or a mental disorder.
To ensure that you can support yourself and your family. The exam can assess your overall health and fitness to work.

The specific requirements for the immigration physical exam vary depending on your country of origin and your immigration status. However, the exam typically includes a physical examination, a chest X-ray, and blood tests. You may also be asked to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases.

If you must have an immigration physical exam, it is essential to do your research and find a qualified doctor familiar with the requirements. You should also be prepared to answer questions about your medical history and provide documentation of your vaccinations. We will provide further tips below on preparing for your immigration physical exam.

How much will my immigration physical exam cost?

Exam costs will vary from doctor to doctor. However, the average for an immigration physical exam is around $200 out of pocket.

How do I find a doctor for my immigration physical exam?

You will need to find a government-authorized doctor or also called a civil surgeon, to complete your exam. You can find a list of civil surgeons in your area on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Make sure to choose a physician authorized to perform the medical exam for immigration purposes. Schedule your appointment to coincide with submitting your green card application, Form I-485. Submitting your green card application with all supporting documents will help eliminate delays and confusion.

What documents should I bring to my immigration physical exam?

Here are the documents you need to bring to your immigration physical exam:

Valid government-issued photo ID. An ID could be a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate.
Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. You can download this form from the USCIS website or click here.
Vaccination records. Records include your immunization records for all required vaccines.
Insurance card. If you have health insurance, bring your insurance card with you.

Tips to help you prepare for your immigration physical exam

Here are some tips on how to prepare for your immigration physical exam:

Gather your medical records. As mentioned above, you should bring copies of your medical records. Forms include immunization records, medical history, and other relevant medical documents. You can request copies of your medical records from your previous healthcare providers.
Letters from your doctor. To outline the treatment plan for any health problems you have.
Bring your medications. If you take any prescription or over-the-counter medications, take note of them or bring them to the exam. This will help the doctor determine if your medications are safe to take while you are in the United States.
You should fast for 8 hours before your exam. Fasting from both food and alcohol is important because you may need to have bloodwork drawn, and fasting will ensure that the results are accurate.
Dress comfortably. You will most likely need to undress for part of the exam, so it is best to wear loose-fitting clothing that is easy to remove and put on.
Arrive on time for your appointment. Ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment to check in and complete the necessary paperwork before your exam.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

The immigration physical exam is a comprehensive exam that will cover your overall health.
The doctor may ask questions about your medical history and health status.
You may be asked to provide a urine sample or blood sample.
The exam may include a physical examination, including a chest X-ray.

Please note: The civil surgeon will ask you to sign the form once the exam is complete. Do not forget to sign form I693 — USCIS will not accept unsigned forms. Unless asked to return to the doctor’s office, the doctor will provide your medical exam results in a sealed envelope at the end of your appointment. Do not break the seal or open the envelope. If you have any questions about the exam, ask your doctor. A copy should be provided for you, but you should also request a copy of your exam for your records.

What can cause you to fail your immigration physical exam?

Here are some of the health conditions that can make you inadmissible to the United States:

Infectious diseases that are a threat to public health. These diseases can include tuberculosis and syphilis.
Mental disorders that could pose a danger to yourself or others. Disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression.
Drug addiction. Addiction to illegal drugs as well as prescription drugs.
Physical severe health conditions that would prevent you from supporting yourself and your family. These conditions can include cancer, heart disease, and kidney failure.

If you have any of these health conditions, you may still be able to obtain a green card or other immigration benefits. However, you will need to provide documentation of your condition and show that you are receiving treatment. You may also need to obtain a waiver from the USCIS.

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