Does Form I-693 Expire After I File My I-485?
Quick Answer
Yes, Form I-693 can expire even after you have filed your I-485. Form I-693 validity depends on applicable USCIS policy, the civil surgeon's signature date, and the applicant's filing circumstances. If USCIS has not adjudicated your case before the form's validity period ends, they may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) asking you to submit a new, updated medical examination.
The Two-Year Validity Window
Form I-693 validity depends on applicable USCIS policy, the civil surgeon's signature date, and the applicant's filing circumstances. USCIS policy has changed over time regarding validity periods. If your case is pending for an extended period, the form may expire and USCIS may require a new examination. This is particularly relevant for applicants in visa backlogs or those with complex cases.
USCIS Must Receive the Form Within the Validity Period
Submission timing requirements have also changed over time. The former 60-day submission rule no longer applies under current USCIS policy. Consult your immigration attorney for current USCIS guidance on when and how to submit Form I-693 relative to your I-485 filing.
What Happens When the Form Expires During Adjudication?
If your Form I-693 expires while your I-485 is pending, USCIS will typically issue an RFE requesting a new, updated medical examination. You must respond to the RFE within the specified timeframe — usually 87 days — by scheduling a new examination with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and submitting the new sealed form. Failure to respond to the RFE can result in denial of your I-485.
How to Monitor Your Form's Validity
Track the civil surgeon's signature date on your copy of Form I-693 and mark the two-year expiration date on your calendar. Monitor USCIS processing times for your case type and priority date. If your case is approaching the two-year mark without a decision, consult your immigration attorney about whether to proactively schedule a new examination. Being proactive can prevent delays caused by an RFE.
Special Situations: Long-Pending Cases
Applicants in visa preference categories with significant backlogs — such as certain employment-based or family-based categories — may wait many years for their priority date to become current. In these cases, it is common for Form I-693 to expire multiple times before the case is adjudicated. Each time the form expires and USCIS requests a new examination, the applicant must repeat the entire process. Planning your examination timing carefully can minimize the number of times you need to repeat the examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have your questions answered? Book your exam today.
Costa Mesa · Mon–Sun 8 AM–8 PM · No referral needed
Medical Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. USCIS and CDC requirements are subject to change. Applicants should consult a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and, when appropriate, a qualified immigration attorney regarding their individual circumstances.
Ready to Schedule Your Immigration Medical Exam?
Our USCIS-designated civil surgeon is ready to help. Book your appointment online or call us today.
Continue Your Journey
What would you like to do next?
Keep learning
Browse All 363+ Questions
Explore every category — vaccinations, TB testing, Form I-693, pricing, appointment preparation, and more.
Check pricing
All-Inclusive Service
One all-inclusive service covers everything. No surprise charges. All standard required services under one roof.
More questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about the exam process and Form I-693.
Ready to book?
Book Online 24/7
Choose your appointment time. Instant confirmation. Same-day appointments frequently available.