Why a Pre-Submission Checklist Matters

Form I-693 is one of the most technically demanding documents in the adjustment of status package. Errors or omissions on the form are a leading cause of RFEs, which delay adjudication and increase costs for clients. A systematic pre-submission review can catch most issues before they reach USCIS.

The following 10-point checklist covers the most critical elements attorneys should verify before including Form I-693 in an I-485 submission.

The 10-Point Pre-Submission Checklist

Review each of the following before submitting Form I-693 with an I-485:

• 1. Edition date — Confirm the edition date in the lower-left corner matches the current USCIS-accepted edition
• 2. Civil surgeon designation — Verify the civil surgeon is currently listed in the USCIS civil surgeon locator
• 3. Civil surgeon signature — Confirm the civil surgeon has signed Part 11 of the form
• 4. Civil surgeon certification date — Confirm the date in Part 11 is present and within the validity window
• 5. Sealed envelope — Confirm the envelope is sealed and bears the civil surgeon's signature across the seal
• 6. Applicant information — Verify the applicant's name, date of birth, and A-Number (if applicable) match the I-485
• 7. Physical examination — Confirm all sections of the physical examination are completed, not left blank
• 8. Laboratory results — Confirm TB test results, syphilis test results, and gonorrhea test results are documented
• 9. Vaccination documentation — Confirm all required vaccines are documented with dates and lot numbers, or exemptions are noted
• 10. Validity window — Confirm the civil surgeon's signature date is within 2 years of the anticipated USCIS receipt date

Checking the Edition Date

The edition date is printed in the lower-left corner of Form I-693. Compare this date to the current edition listed on the USCIS website. USCIS only accepts the current edition; outdated editions are rejected.

If the form uses an outdated edition, a new examination will be required. Contact the civil surgeon's office immediately to schedule a new appointment.

Verifying the Sealed Envelope

Form I-693 must be submitted in a sealed envelope. The civil surgeon must sign across the seal of the envelope. If the envelope has been opened — even accidentally — it may be rejected by USCIS.

Attorneys should not open the sealed envelope under any circumstances. If there is a question about the contents, contact the civil surgeon's office directly.

Vaccination Documentation Review

Vaccination documentation is the most common source of RFEs. Attorneys who have the opportunity to review the form before sealing should confirm that each required vaccine is documented with the administration date and lot number, or that a valid exemption is noted. Vague or unsupported exemptions frequently draw RFEs.