Misinformation about immigration medical exams is widespread. We've compiled the most common myths — and the facts that correct them.
Why this matters
Misinformation about immigration medical exams is widespread. We've compiled the most common myths — and the facts that correct them. Whether you're preparing for your first appointment or helping a family member navigate the process, understanding the truth can save you time, money, and stress.
“My immigration medical exam is only about vaccines.”
The exam includes a complete physical examination, review of medical history, tuberculosis testing, laboratory blood tests (syphilis, gonorrhea), mental health screening, and substance use evaluation — in addition to vaccine review and administration.
“My family doctor can complete Form I-693.”
Only USCIS-designated Civil Surgeons are authorized to complete Form I-693. Your primary care physician, urgent care clinic, or any non-designated doctor cannot legally complete this form, regardless of their credentials.
“The cheapest clinic is always the best value.”
Many clinics advertise low exam fees but charge separately for each vaccine, laboratory test, and administrative service. An all-inclusive flat fee often costs less in total and eliminates surprise charges.
“I don't need my vaccination records — the doctor can just give me all the vaccines.”
Bringing your vaccination records can save you time and money. Without records, you may need to repeat vaccines you already received or undergo titer blood tests to prove immunity. Records from any country are accepted.
“I can open the sealed envelope to check my Form I-693.”
Opening the sealed envelope invalidates Form I-693. USCIS requires the form to remain in the original sealed envelope provided by your Civil Surgeon. An opened envelope will be rejected and you will need a new examination.
“A positive TB blood test automatically means USCIS will deny my Green Card.”
A positive TB test (IGRA or TST) does not automatically result in denial. Latent tuberculosis is not a bar to admissibility. You will need additional evaluation and may need to begin treatment, but most applicants with latent TB successfully complete the process.
“I need to fast before my immigration medical exam.”
Fasting is not required for the standard immigration medical exam. You may eat and drink normally before your appointment. Some specific follow-up tests may require fasting, but your Civil Surgeon will advise you if that applies.
“My immigration medical exam is valid forever.”
Form I-693 has a specific validity period. The form is generally valid for 2 years from the date of the civil surgeon's signature, but USCIS must receive it within that window. If your case is delayed, you may need a new examination.
“I can only use an immigration medical exam completed in my state.”
You can use a Form I-693 completed by any USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon in the United States, regardless of which state they practice in. However, you must submit the form to the USCIS office handling your case.
“Children don't need vaccines for immigration medical exams.”
Children are subject to age-appropriate USCIS vaccine requirements just like adults. The specific vaccines required depend on the child's age and vaccination history. Parents should bring all available vaccination records.
“If I already had a disease (like chickenpox), I don't need the vaccine.”
A documented history of the disease may satisfy the requirement for some vaccines. However, you must provide documentation. Without records, your Civil Surgeon may order a titer blood test to confirm immunity, or you may need the vaccine.
“I can submit Form I-693 directly to USCIS myself without a sealed envelope.”
Form I-693 must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Depending on your case, it is either submitted with your I-485 application or brought to your USCIS interview. Your Civil Surgeon will provide the sealed envelope — do not open it.
“All immigration medical exam clinics are the same.”
Clinics vary significantly in experience, specialization, pricing transparency, RFE rates, and turnaround time. A clinic that performs hundreds of immigration medical exams per month has far more experience than a general practice that occasionally completes the form.
“HIV-positive applicants cannot get a Green Card.”
HIV was removed from the list of communicable diseases of public health significance in 2009. HIV status alone is no longer a bar to immigration. Applicants with HIV are subject to the same medical evaluation as all other applicants.
“I need to schedule my medical exam before filing my I-485.”
You can schedule your immigration medical exam before or after filing Form I-485. Many applicants schedule the exam after filing to avoid the risk of the form expiring before USCIS adjudicates their case. Your immigration attorney can advise on the best timing for your situation.
The most important truths to remember before your appointment
Only USCIS-designated Civil Surgeons can complete Form I-693.
Bring your vaccination records — records from any country are accepted.
Never open the sealed envelope — it will be rejected by USCIS.
A positive TB test does not automatically disqualify you.
HIV is no longer a bar to immigration admissibility.
Form I-693 is valid for 2 years — timing matters.
Common questions about immigration medical exams
Our USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon team has completed thousands of immigration medical exams. Flat-fee pricing. Same-day and next-day appointments available.
