HIV Is Not a Ground of Inadmissibility

In 2010, the United States removed HIV from the list of communicable diseases of public health significance for immigration purposes. This means that HIV status — whether you are HIV-positive, undetectable, or on antiretroviral therapy — is not a ground of inadmissibility. Your HIV status will not prevent you from obtaining a green card.

HIV Testing Is Not Required

Because HIV is not a ground of inadmissibility, HIV testing is not a required component of the immigration medical examination. The civil surgeon is not required to test for HIV, and you are not required to disclose your HIV status.

Antiretroviral Medications

If you are on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV — such as combination regimens containing tenofovir, emtricitabine, dolutegravir, or other agents — you are not required to disclose these medications. However, bringing a complete medication list to your appointment is always a good practice.

Your medication list helps the civil surgeon accurately document your medical history and may be relevant to the vaccine review portion of your exam. For most people on ART with a well-functioning immune system, standard vaccine recommendations apply.

Vaccine Considerations for People Living With HIV

For people living with HIV, vaccine recommendations may vary depending on your CD4 count and immune status. If your immune system is significantly compromised, some live vaccines may be contraindicated. If this applies to you, the civil surgeon can document a medical contraindication and complete a vaccine waiver on Form I-693. Bringing documentation from your HIV care provider about your current immune status can be helpful.