Which STDs Are Tested in the Immigration Medical Exam

The USCIS immigration medical examination requires testing for two sexually transmitted infections: syphilis and gonorrhea. These tests are part of the standard laboratory panel and are required for applicants 15 years of age and older.

Syphilis testing is performed via a blood draw using the RPR (rapid plasma reagin) screening test. Gonorrhea testing is performed using a urine sample analyzed by NAAT (nucleic acid amplification test). Both tests are performed on-site at our clinic on the day of your appointment.

Why These Tests Are Required

Syphilis and gonorrhea are communicable diseases that USCIS screens for as part of its public health evaluation of immigration applicants. The screening requirements are established by the CDC and reflect the public health significance of these infections.

The goal of STD screening in the immigration medical exam is not to exclude applicants, but to identify and address treatable conditions. Both syphilis and gonorrhea are bacterial infections that respond well to antibiotic treatment. Identifying and treating these infections benefits both the individual applicant and the broader public health.

Who Is Required to Be Tested

Syphilis and gonorrhea testing are required for all immigration applicants aged 15 and older as part of the standard Form I-693 laboratory panel. Applicants under 15 are generally exempt from STD testing. The requirement applies regardless of gender, marital status, sexual orientation, or country of origin.

What a Positive Result Means

A positive STD test result does not automatically prevent you from obtaining a green card. Both syphilis and gonorrhea are treatable bacterial infections. Completing a course of antibiotic treatment and documenting the cure is typically sufficient to address the finding for immigration purposes.

For syphilis, a reactive RPR screening test requires a confirmatory treponemal test. If active syphilis is confirmed, treatment will be required before Form I-693 can be finalized. A history of treated syphilis with documented cure is generally not a ground of inadmissibility.

For gonorrhea, a positive NAAT result indicates active infection. Antibiotic treatment is highly effective, and completing treatment typically resolves the finding. Our civil surgeon will guide you through the process.

Privacy and Confidentiality

We understand that STD testing can feel sensitive. Our team is committed to providing a respectful, non-judgmental environment for all patients. All findings are discussed privately with the civil surgeon and documented only as required by USCIS regulations.

All medical information is handled with strict confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and applicable privacy laws. Results are shared with USCIS only as required by the immigration medical examination process — they are not shared with employers, family members, or other third parties.

STD Testing and Immigration Inadmissibility

Under U.S. immigration law, active communicable STDs may be considered grounds of inadmissibility. However, because syphilis and gonorrhea are treatable, the inadmissibility finding is typically resolved once treatment is completed and documented.

The civil surgeon will document all findings on Form I-693 along with any treatment completed. USCIS reviews this documentation as part of the overall medical evaluation. Treated STDs with documented cure are generally not a bar to admission.