Hypertension Is Not a Ground of Inadmissibility

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is not among the medical grounds of inadmissibility under U.S. immigration law. The 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. Hypertension does not fall into any of these categories.

Blood Pressure Is Measured During the Physical Exam

As part of the standard immigration medical examination, the civil surgeon will take your vital signs, which includes measuring your blood pressure. This is a routine part of the physical examination and is not a test for inadmissibility.

If your blood pressure is elevated at the time of your exam, the civil surgeon will note it in your medical history. This does not constitute a finding of inadmissibility and will not prevent your Form I-693 from being completed.

What Happens If Blood Pressure Is Very High

If your blood pressure reading is severely elevated at the time of your exam — for example, at a level that suggests a hypertensive crisis — the civil surgeon may recommend that you seek immediate medical attention before completing the exam. This is a safety precaution, not an immigration determination. Once your blood pressure is stabilized, you can return to complete your examination.

Medication Documentation

If you take antihypertensive medications, bring a complete list of your current medications to your appointment. This helps the civil surgeon accurately document your medical history on Form I-693. There are no special restrictions or additional requirements for applicants with hypertension.