DACA and Pathways to Adjustment of Status

DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization, but it does not itself create a pathway to lawful permanent residence. DACA recipients who wish to obtain a green card must do so through an independent basis for adjustment of status, such as marriage to a U.S. citizen, an approved employment-based petition, or another qualifying category.

The availability of adjustment of status for DACA recipients depends on their specific circumstances, including how they entered the United States and whether they have any bars to adjustment. Consult an immigration attorney to evaluate your eligibility.

Medical Exam Requirement When Adjusting Status

If a DACA recipient becomes eligible to file Form I-485 to adjust status, they must complete an immigration medical examination with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and submit Form I-693. The medical exam requirement is the same as for all other adjustment of status applicants.

The exam includes a complete physical examination, TB testing, required laboratory tests, and a vaccination review. The civil surgeon completes Form I-693, seals it, and provides it to the applicant for submission to USCIS.

• Complete physical examination
• TB testing (skin test or IGRA blood test)
• Syphilis and gonorrhea testing (age 15+)
• Vaccination review and administration of missing vaccines
• Form I-693 completed and sealed by civil surgeon

Advance Parole and Adjustment of Status

Some DACA recipients have traveled outside the United States using advance parole and returned to the U.S. This travel may create a basis for adjustment of status that would not otherwise be available to someone who entered without inspection. If you have traveled on advance parole, consult an immigration attorney to determine whether this affects your eligibility to adjust status.

If advance parole travel creates a basis for adjustment of status, the medical exam requirement is the same as for any other I-485 applicant. You would need to complete a civil surgeon examination and submit Form I-693.

Timing the Medical Exam for DACA Recipients

DACA recipients who are eligible to adjust status should schedule their medical exam close to their planned I-485 filing date. The I-693 must be signed by the civil surgeon no more than 60 days before submission to USCIS, and it is valid for two years from the civil surgeon's signature date. Given the legal complexity of DACA-related adjustment of status cases, work closely with an immigration attorney to coordinate the timing of your medical exam and I-485 filing.