Cancer Is Not a Ground of Inadmissibility

Cancer — whether a past diagnosis or an active condition — is not a ground of inadmissibility under U.S. immigration law. 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. Cancer does not fall into any of these categories.

Medical History Disclosure

During your immigration medical examination, the civil surgeon will ask about your medical history. You should answer these questions honestly, including disclosing any history of cancer. This information is recorded on Form I-693 as part of your medical history.

Disclosing a cancer history is straightforward and will not negatively affect your immigration application. The civil surgeon is not evaluating your overall health status for immigration purposes — only the specific grounds of inadmissibility defined by USCIS.

Treatment Records and Documentation

While not required, you may wish to bring documentation of your cancer treatment to your appointment. This can include a summary from your oncologist, a list of current medications (including chemotherapy or targeted therapy agents), and records of any surgeries or radiation treatments. This helps the civil surgeon have a complete picture of your medical history.

Vaccine Considerations for Cancer Patients

If you are currently undergoing chemotherapy or other immunosuppressive cancer treatments, some live vaccines may be contraindicated. The civil surgeon will review your vaccination requirements in the context of your current treatment. If a vaccine is medically contraindicated, a medical waiver can be documented on Form I-693. See our article on medical waivers for vaccines for more information.

No Special Restrictions

There are no special restrictions, additional tests, or extra documentation requirements for applicants with a cancer history. You will complete the same standard immigration medical examination as any other applicant.