What Are the Age Requirements for the HPV Vaccine for Immigration?
Quick Answer
The HPV vaccine is routinely required for immigration applicants aged 9 through 26. For applicants aged 27 through 45, it is a shared clinical decision between the applicant and the civil surgeon. Adults over 45 are generally not required to receive the HPV vaccine.
HPV Vaccine Requirement Overview
The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine protects against the strains of HPV most likely to cause cervical cancer, other HPV-related cancers, and genital warts. USCIS requires all age-appropriate ACIP-recommended vaccines, and HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for individuals aged 9 through 26. The vaccine is required for immigration applicants in this age group who have not completed the series.
Ages 9–26: Routine Requirement
For immigration applicants aged 9 through 26, the HPV vaccine is a routine ACIP recommendation and is therefore required for immigration purposes. This applies to both males and females. If you are in this age group and have not completed the HPV vaccine series, you will need to receive the required doses. The standard series is 2 doses for those who start before age 15, and 3 doses for those who start at age 15 or older.
Ages 27–45: Shared Clinical Decision
For applicants aged 27 through 45, ACIP changed its recommendation to a "shared clinical decision" rather than a universal routine recommendation. This means the decision to vaccinate is made between the patient and their healthcare provider based on individual risk factors. For immigration purposes, this category is treated differently from routine recommendations. The civil surgeon will discuss your individual situation and determine whether HPV vaccine is required or recommended for your specific case.
Ages 46 and Older: Generally Not Required
Applicants who are 46 years of age or older are generally not required to receive the HPV vaccine for immigration purposes. ACIP does not routinely recommend HPV vaccination for this age group, as the benefits are considered limited for individuals who have likely already been exposed to HPV. The civil surgeon will confirm this based on your age at the time of your exam.
Catch-Up Schedule for HPV
If you are in the required age range and have received some but not all HPV vaccine doses, you can complete the series. The minimum intervals between doses must be observed: at least 4 weeks between dose 1 and dose 2, at least 12 weeks between dose 2 and dose 3, and at least 24 weeks between dose 1 and dose 3. If you need to complete a multi-dose series, you will need follow-up appointments, which may affect your Form I-693 completion timeline.
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.