Physical Disability Is Not a Ground of Inadmissibility

Under U.S. immigration law, having a physical disability is not a ground of inadmissibility. The immigration medical examination evaluates specific conditions defined by USCIS — communicable diseases of public health significance, failure to vaccinate, physical or mental disorders with associated harmful behavior, and drug abuse or addiction. A physical disability that does not fall into one of these categories will not affect your eligibility for a green card.

How the Examination Accommodates Patients With Disabilities

Our Costa Mesa clinic is accessible and accommodating for patients with physical disabilities or mobility limitations. If you have specific accessibility needs, please inform our staff when scheduling your appointment so we can make appropriate arrangements.

The civil surgeon will conduct the physical examination in a manner that is appropriate for your specific situation. If certain components of the examination need to be modified due to your disability, the civil surgeon will document this appropriately on Form I-693.

Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities

Developmental and intellectual disabilities are also generally not grounds of inadmissibility. The civil surgeon will evaluate whether any condition — including a developmental or intellectual disability — is associated with harmful behavior, which is the legal standard for inadmissibility. In most cases, these conditions do not meet that standard.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

If you have a disability, bring any relevant medical records or documentation to your appointment. If you require an interpreter or have communication needs, please inform our staff in advance so we can make appropriate accommodations.