Autoimmune Conditions Are Not Grounds of Inadmissibility

Autoimmune disorders — including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, and many others — are not grounds of inadmissibility under U.S. immigration law. Your autoimmune diagnosis will not prevent you from obtaining a green card. The medical grounds of inadmissibility are limited to communicable diseases of public health significance, failure to have required vaccinations, physical or mental disorders with associated harmful behavior, and drug abuse or addiction.

Immunosuppressant Medications and Live Vaccine Contraindications

Many autoimmune conditions are managed with immunosuppressant medications, including biologics such as adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel), infliximab (Remicade), and others, as well as traditional immunosuppressants such as methotrexate, azathioprine, and corticosteroids.

These medications suppress the immune system, which means that live attenuated vaccines are generally contraindicated. The live vaccines required for immigration include MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and varicella (chickenpox). If you are on immunosuppressant therapy, these vaccines may be medically contraindicated for you.

Medical Waiver Process for Vaccines

If a required vaccine is medically contraindicated due to your immunosuppressant medications, the civil surgeon can document this on Form I-693 as a medical contraindication. This is a standard, well-established process and does not negatively affect your immigration application. USCIS accepts medical contraindications as a valid reason for not receiving a required vaccine. You will need documentation from your treating physician confirming your diagnosis and current medication regimen.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

To ensure your appointment goes smoothly, bring the following:

• A complete list of all current medications, including biologics and immunosuppressants
• A letter or summary from your rheumatologist, neurologist, or treating physician confirming your diagnosis and medication regimen
• Your vaccination records
• Any records of vaccines received before starting immunosuppressant therapy