What Is a Consular Processing Medical Exam?

A consular processing medical exam is a medical examination required for individuals applying for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. The exam is performed by a physician designated by the U.S. Department of State, known as a panel physician.

The consular processing medical exam is required for all immigrant visa applicants, including those applying through family-based, employment-based, diversity visa, and other immigrant visa categories. The exam must be completed before the immigrant visa interview at the embassy or consulate.

What the Panel Physician Exam Includes

The panel physician exam includes a comprehensive physical examination, a review of your medical history, TB testing (typically a chest X-ray for applicants aged 15 and older, or a TB skin test or IGRA for younger applicants), and required laboratory tests including syphilis serology.

The panel physician will also review your vaccination records and administer any missing required vaccines. The specific vaccination requirements may vary slightly from those required for adjustment of status inside the United States.

• Comprehensive physical examination
• Medical history review
• TB testing (chest X-ray for adults, skin test or IGRA for children)
• Syphilis serology and other required laboratory tests
• Vaccination review and administration of missing vaccines
• Completion of Form DS-2053

Form DS-2053 and the Embassy Process

The panel physician documents the exam results on Form DS-2053 (Medical Examination for Immigrant or Refugee Applicant). Unlike the civil surgeon exam, where the applicant receives a sealed envelope to submit to USCIS, the panel physician submits DS-2053 directly to the U.S. embassy or consulate.

The embassy or consulate reviews the DS-2053 as part of the immigrant visa application. If the panel physician identifies any health conditions that may affect admissibility, the consular officer will address them during the visa interview process.

How to Schedule a Panel Physician Exam

Panel physician exams are scheduled through the U.S. embassy or consulate where you are applying for your immigrant visa. The embassy will provide instructions on which panel physician to use and how to schedule your appointment. Panel physicians are typically located in major cities near U.S. embassies and consulates. Fees vary by country and physician. Contact the embassy or consulate for specific instructions.