Do I Need a New Form I-693 If I Received an RFE?
Quick Answer
Whether you need a new Form I-693 after receiving an RFE depends on the type of RFE. If the RFE requests a new or updated medical examination because your current form has expired or is deficient, you will need a new examination. If the RFE requests supplemental documentation or clarification, you may be able to respond without a new examination.
RFEs That Require a New Examination
A new immigration medical examination is required when the RFE states that your Form I-693 has expired (more than two years old), that the form was completed using an outdated edition, that the civil surgeon who performed the examination is no longer USCIS-designated, or that the sealed envelope was compromised. In these cases, you must schedule a new appointment with a currently USCIS-designated civil surgeon and submit a new sealed Form I-693 in response to the RFE.
RFEs That May Not Require a New Examination
Some RFEs related to Form I-693 can be resolved without a new physical examination. For example, if USCIS requests a specialist's report for a specific medical finding, your civil surgeon may be able to obtain and provide that report without repeating the full examination. If USCIS requests clarification of a specific test result, the civil surgeon may be able to provide a supplemental letter or documentation. Contact your civil surgeon and immigration attorney to determine the appropriate response.
Working With Your Civil Surgeon on the RFE Response
Regardless of the type of RFE, contact your civil surgeon's office as soon as you receive it. The civil surgeon can review the RFE and advise you on what is needed. If a new examination is required, schedule it immediately to allow time for testing, results, and form completion before the RFE deadline. If supplemental documentation is needed, the civil surgeon can help gather and prepare the appropriate records.
Timing Your Response
RFE response deadlines are typically 87 days from the date of the RFE. This may seem like a long time, but if a new examination is required, you need to account for the time to schedule the appointment, complete the examination, receive all test results, and have the form completed and sealed. Our office offers expedited processing for applicants with RFE deadlines. Contact us as soon as you receive the RFE to ensure we can accommodate your timeline.
Preventing Future RFEs
The best way to avoid RFEs related to Form I-693 is to work with an experienced civil surgeon who is familiar with USCIS requirements, submit the form within 60 days of the civil surgeon's signature, monitor the form's validity period and schedule a new examination before it expires, and respond promptly to any USCIS requests. Our office has extensive experience helping applicants navigate the RFE process.
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