Common Reasons USCIS Rejects Form I-693
USCIS may reject or question Form I-693 for several reasons. Understanding the most common causes helps you avoid them — and respond effectively if they occur.
Outdated form edition
The most common reason. USCIS only accepts the current edition of Form I-693. Any prior edition will be rejected.
Incomplete or missing fields
Required fields left blank, unsigned sections, or missing Civil Surgeon information will cause rejection.
Broken or compromised seal
The sealed envelope must be intact. Any evidence of tampering or opening invalidates the form.
Expired form
Form I-693 is valid for 2 years from the Civil Surgeon's signature date. An expired form cannot be accepted.
Non-designated Civil Surgeon
The form must be completed by a current USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon. Forms completed by non-designated physicians are rejected.
Missing vaccination documentation
Incomplete vaccination records or missing required vaccines may trigger an RFE requesting additional documentation.
What Is an RFE?
An RFE (Request for Evidence) is a formal notice from USCIS requesting additional information or documentation to continue processing your application. Receiving an RFE does not mean your application is denied — it means USCIS needs more information before making a decision.
RFE ≠ Denial
An RFE is an opportunity to provide the information USCIS needs. Most RFEs related to Form I-693 can be resolved by submitting a new, properly completed exam. Respond promptly and completely within the deadline.
Response deadline
USCIS specifies a deadline in the RFE — typically 87 days. Missing this deadline may result in denial.
What USCIS is asking for
The RFE will specify exactly what is needed. Read it carefully and share it with your attorney.
Attorney involvement
Your immigration attorney should review the RFE and advise on the appropriate response strategy.
New exam may be required
In most cases, a new immigration medical exam is required to resolve an I-693 RFE.
Steps to Take If You Receive an RFE
Read the RFE carefully
The RFE will specify exactly what USCIS is requesting. Read it thoroughly and note the response deadline. Do not ignore it.
Contact your immigration attorney immediately
Share the RFE with your immigration attorney as soon as possible. They will advise you on the appropriate response and help you meet the deadline.
Schedule a new immigration medical exam
In most cases, you will need to schedule a new exam with a USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon. Contact our office to schedule promptly.
Complete the new exam on the current form edition
The Civil Surgeon will complete a new Form I-693 on the current USCIS-approved edition. Bring all your vaccination records and identification.
Submit the response before the deadline
Your attorney will compile the RFE response package, including the new sealed Form I-693, and submit it to USCIS before the deadline.
Follow up with USCIS
After submitting your RFE response, monitor your case status on the USCIS website. Processing times vary.
Do You Need a New Exam?
Whether you need a completely new exam depends on the reason for rejection:
Timeline Implications
An I-693 rejection or RFE adds time to your green card application. Here's a realistic timeline:
RFE received
You receive the RFE notice. The clock starts on your response deadline (typically 87 days).
Attorney review
Your attorney reviews the RFE and advises on the response strategy.
New exam scheduled
You schedule and complete a new immigration medical exam. Same-day appointments often available.
Lab results returned
QuantiFERON-TB Gold and other lab results return within 1–3 business days.
New Form I-693 completed
Civil Surgeon reviews, signs, and seals the new Form I-693.
RFE response submitted
Attorney compiles and submits the RFE response package to USCIS.
How to Avoid Rejection in the First Place
The best way to handle an I-693 rejection is to prevent it. Here's how:
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Articles
Medical & Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. USCIS policies, RFE procedures, and form requirements may change without notice. Always consult a USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon and a qualified immigration attorney for guidance specific to your individual case.