Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine Required for Immigration?
Quick Answer
Yes. The hepatitis A vaccine is required for immigration applicants who are age-eligible according to ACIP recommendations. It is a 2-dose series, and titer testing is available as an alternative to demonstrate existing immunity.
Hepatitis A Vaccine Requirement for Immigration
Hepatitis A vaccine is an ACIP-recommended vaccine required for immigration applicants who are age-eligible. ACIP recommends hepatitis A vaccination for all children at age 1 year, for unvaccinated children and adolescents through age 18, and for adults at increased risk of hepatitis A or severe outcomes from hepatitis A infection. For immigration purposes, the civil surgeon will assess whether hepatitis A vaccine is required based on your age and vaccination history.
The 2-Dose Hepatitis A Series
The hepatitis A vaccine is given as a 2-dose series. The second dose is given 6–18 months after the first dose. Both doses are needed for long-term protection. If you have received only one dose, you will need to complete the series. The civil surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment for the second dose. A combination hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccine (Twinrix) is also available for adults and can be used to satisfy both requirements simultaneously.
Titer Testing as an Alternative
Hepatitis A titer testing (anti-HAV IgG) is available and accepted for immigration purposes. A positive titer demonstrates immunity to hepatitis A, either from prior vaccination or prior infection. If your titer is positive, you do not need to receive the hepatitis A vaccine. Titer testing is particularly useful for individuals who may have had hepatitis A infection in the past or who were vaccinated but lack documentation.
Prior Hepatitis A Infection
If you had hepatitis A disease in the past, you likely have lifelong immunity. A positive hepatitis A titer (anti-HAV IgG) will confirm this immunity. Bring any medical records documenting prior hepatitis A infection to your appointment. If you have documentation of prior infection, the civil surgeon may accept this as evidence of immunity without requiring titer testing.
Combination Hepatitis A/B Vaccine
Twinrix is a combination vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and hepatitis B. It is approved for adults 18 years and older and is given as a 3-dose series (at 0, 1, and 6 months) or an accelerated 4-dose series (at 0, 7, 21–30 days, and 12 months). If you need both hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines, Twinrix can satisfy both requirements with a single series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Articles
Ready to Schedule Your Immigration Medical Exam?
Our USCIS-designated civil surgeon is ready to help. Book your appointment online or call us today.
Continue Your Journey
What would you like to do next?
Keep learning
Browse All 363+ Questions
Explore every category — vaccinations, TB testing, Form I-693, pricing, appointment preparation, and more.
Check pricing
All-Inclusive Flat-Fee Pricing
One flat fee covers everything. No surprise charges. See exactly what you'll pay before you book.
More questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about the exam process and Form I-693.
Ready to book?
Book Online 24/7
Choose your appointment time. Instant confirmation. Same-day appointments frequently available.