Can Form I-693 Be Corrected or Amended After It Is Sealed?
Quick Answer
Yes, Form I-693 can be corrected after it is sealed, but only by the civil surgeon who performed the examination. The civil surgeon must issue a corrected form in a new sealed envelope. The original sealed envelope should not be opened. Contact the civil surgeon's office as soon as you discover an error.
When Is a Correction Needed?
A correction to Form I-693 may be needed when an error is discovered after the civil surgeon has sealed the envelope. Common errors that require correction include: a misspelled name or incorrect date of birth in Part 1; an incorrect A-Number; a missing or incorrect test result; an administrative error in the civil surgeon's certification section; or a missing signature or date. Not all errors require a new examination — some can be corrected by the civil surgeon issuing an amended form.
The Process for Correcting a Sealed Form
To correct a sealed Form I-693, contact the civil surgeon's office and explain the specific error. The civil surgeon will review the original examination records and prepare a corrected form. The corrected form is placed in a new sealed envelope, which the civil surgeon stamps or signs across the seal. The original sealed envelope should be retained — do not open it. When submitting to USCIS, include both the original sealed envelope and the corrected sealed envelope, along with a cover letter explaining the correction.
Does a Correction Require a New Examination?
Whether a correction requires a new physical examination depends on the nature of the error. Administrative errors — such as a misspelled name, incorrect date, or missing signature — can typically be corrected without a new examination. Errors in medical findings — such as an incorrect test result or a missing diagnosis — may require the civil surgeon to review the original test results and, in some cases, order additional testing. The civil surgeon will advise you on what is required for your specific situation.
What If the Original Envelope Was Accidentally Opened?
If the sealed envelope was accidentally opened before submission to USCIS, the form is no longer valid. USCIS will not accept a form in an opened envelope. In this case, you must schedule a new immigration medical examination. The civil surgeon will perform a new examination and provide a new sealed envelope. Contact our office as soon as possible if this situation occurs.
Submitting a Corrected Form to USCIS
When submitting a corrected Form I-693 to USCIS, include a cover letter explaining the nature of the correction and why it was made. If you are submitting the corrected form in response to an RFE, follow the RFE instructions exactly. If you are submitting proactively before USCIS has requested a correction, include the corrected form with a clear explanation. Your immigration attorney can help you draft an appropriate cover letter.
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