What Is Expedited Processing?

Expedited processing refers to receiving your completed, sealed Form I-693 in 2 business days rather than the standard 3-business-day turnaround. The exam itself is identical — the difference is in how quickly the civil surgeon completes, reviews, and seals the form after all lab results are received.

Not all clinics offer expedited processing. Those that do typically charge an additional fee on top of the standard exam price.

Typical Expedited Processing Costs

Expedited processing fees vary by clinic and location. A typical range is $50 to $150 for 2-day processing. Some clinics may charge more for same-day or next-day processing if available.

When evaluating whether expedited processing is worth the cost, consider the value of receiving your Form I-693 one day sooner relative to your specific immigration timeline.

When Expedited Processing Is Worth It

Expedited processing makes sense in several situations.

• You have a USCIS interview scheduled within the next 2–3 weeks
• You have a filing deadline approaching and need to submit Form I-693 promptly
• Your attorney has advised you to file as quickly as possible
• You are traveling and need to complete your exam and receive your form before departing
• Your case has been pending for a long time and you want to avoid further delays

What Affects Turnaround Time

The primary factor affecting turnaround time is laboratory results. The TB/IGRA blood test typically takes 24–72 hours to return results. If results are delayed by the laboratory, even expedited processing may take longer than expected.

Follow-up vaccines — such as a second dose in a series — may also affect turnaround time if they cannot be administered on the same day as the initial exam.

How to Request Expedited Processing

To request expedited processing, inform the clinic when scheduling your appointment. Confirm that expedited processing is available on your preferred appointment date and ask for the current fee. Some clinics require advance notice to accommodate expedited requests, so it is best to ask when booking rather than on the day of your appointment.