Documents to Gather Before Your Appointment
Gathering the right documents before your appointment is the single most important step in preparing for your immigration medical exam. Missing documents can extend your appointment time, increase your costs, or require a follow-up visit.
Government-issued photo ID or passport
A valid passport is preferred. A state-issued driver's license or ID is also acceptable. The name on your ID must match your immigration documents.
Vaccination records
Bring all available vaccination records — from your doctor, school, pharmacy, or home country. Original records or certified copies are preferred. Foreign-language records are acceptable.
Medical history documentation
Any records of prior TB tests (TST or IGRA), chest X-rays, or treatment for communicable diseases. Records of prior surgeries, hospitalizations, or chronic conditions are also helpful.
Payment
We accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Our flat-fee pricing includes the exam, required lab tests, and standard vaccines. Call (714) 760-4538 for current pricing.
What to Wear and What to Eat
What to Wear
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. The physical exam includes a review of your skin, eyes, ears, nose, throat, and lymph nodes, as well as a chest and abdominal exam. Clothing that is easy to remove or adjust makes the exam faster and more comfortable.
If you are receiving vaccines, wear a short-sleeved shirt or a shirt with sleeves that can be easily rolled up. Avoid tight-fitting tops that make upper-arm access difficult.
What to Eat
No fasting is required for the immigration medical exam. Eat normally before your appointment. Staying well-hydrated makes the blood draw easier and more comfortable.
Tip: Drink a full glass of water before your appointment. Hydration makes veins easier to access for the blood draw and can reduce discomfort.
Medications and Medical Records
Continue taking all prescribed medications as normal before your appointment — do not stop any medication without consulting your physician. Bring a current list of all medications you take, including dosages and prescribing physicians.
If you have a history of any of the following, bring relevant medical records:
Having these records available allows the Civil Surgeon to make accurate determinations and may prevent the need for additional testing.
What to Expect During the Physical Exam
The immigration medical exam is a structured evaluation required by USCIS. It is not a comprehensive health checkup — it focuses specifically on conditions that may affect admissibility to the United States. Here is what the exam includes:
Medical history review
The Civil Surgeon will review your medical history, including prior illnesses, hospitalizations, mental health history, and substance use history.
Physical examination
A head-to-toe physical exam covering eyes, ears, nose, throat, skin, lymph nodes, heart, lungs, abdomen, and extremities.
Tuberculosis (TB) testing
Applicants aged 2 and older receive a TB blood test (IGRA) or skin test (TST). Results may require a follow-up chest X-ray.
Blood tests
Required blood tests include syphilis serology (RPR) and gonorrhea testing for applicable age groups.
Vaccination review and administration
The Civil Surgeon reviews your vaccination records and administers any required vaccines not already documented.
Preparing Children for the Immigration Medical Exam
Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian throughout the entire appointment. Here is how to prepare your child for a smooth experience:
Note: Children under 15 are not required to have TB testing unless they have risk factors. Children under certain ages may have different vaccine requirements. Our Civil Surgeon will review your child's specific requirements at the appointment.
Day-of Timeline
Here is a typical timeline for your immigration medical exam appointment at our Costa Mesa clinic:
Arrive 10–15 min early
Check in at the front desk, complete any remaining paperwork, and present your ID and vaccination records.
Medical history intake
A staff member reviews your medical history form and vaccination records. This typically takes 10–15 minutes.
TB testing
A TB blood test (IGRA) is drawn. Results are typically available within 24–48 hours.
Blood draw for required labs
Required blood tests (syphilis, gonorrhea if applicable) are collected. This takes approximately 5–10 minutes.
Physical examination
The Civil Surgeon performs the full physical examination. This typically takes 15–20 minutes.
Vaccine administration
Any required vaccines not already documented are administered. This takes 5–15 minutes depending on the number of vaccines needed.
Form I-693 completion and sealing
Once all results are received (typically 1–3 business days), the Civil Surgeon completes and seals Form I-693 for submission to USCIS.
What NOT to Bring
To keep your appointment efficient and avoid confusion, leave the following at home:
Form I-485 or other USCIS application forms
The Civil Surgeon does not need your I-485 or other immigration petitions. Form I-693 is a separate document.
A pre-filled or downloaded Form I-693
The Civil Surgeon completes Form I-693 — you do not fill it out yourself. Bringing a pre-filled form may cause confusion.
Large groups of non-patient visitors
One support person per patient is welcome. Large groups can disrupt the clinic and other patients.
Expired or photocopied IDs
USCIS requires valid, unexpired government-issued photo identification. Photocopies are not acceptable.
Schedule Your Immigration Medical Exam Today
USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon since 2007. Located at 2900 Bristol St. #C207, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Same-day and next-day appointments available.
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Medical & Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. USCIS requirements may change without notice. Always consult a USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon and a qualified immigration attorney for guidance specific to your individual case.