Can I Use a Varicella Titer Test Instead of the Varicella Vaccine for Immigration?
Quick Answer
Yes. A positive varicella titer test demonstrating immunity is accepted as proof of varicella immunity for immigration purposes. If your titer is positive, you do not need to receive the varicella vaccine. If your titer is negative, you will need to receive the vaccine.
Varicella Immunity Options for Immigration
For immigration purposes, there are several ways to demonstrate varicella (chickenpox) immunity: documented vaccination with two doses of varicella vaccine, a positive varicella IgG titer test, or documented history of varicella disease (chickenpox) confirmed by a healthcare provider. The titer test is a popular option for individuals who may have had chickenpox as a child or who received vaccination but lack documentation.
How Varicella Titer Testing Works
A varicella titer test measures the level of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) IgG antibodies in your blood. A positive result indicates that you have immunity to varicella, either from prior infection or prior vaccination. The blood draw is simple and results are typically available within a few days. If your titer is positive, the civil surgeon will document this on Form I-693 and the varicella vaccine requirement is satisfied.
What Titer Level Is Required
The specific cutoff for a "positive" varicella titer varies by laboratory. The civil surgeon will use the reference range provided by the laboratory that processes your blood sample. A result reported as "positive," "immune," or "reactive" by the laboratory is generally sufficient. A result reported as "negative," "non-immune," or "non-reactive" means you do not have sufficient immunity and will need to receive the varicella vaccine.
What Happens If Your Titer Is Negative
If your varicella titer is negative, you will need to receive two doses of varicella vaccine. The two doses must be given at least 4 weeks apart. This means you will need at least one follow-up appointment to receive the second dose. Form I-693 cannot be finalized until both doses have been administered. Plan your immigration timeline accordingly if you anticipate needing the varicella vaccine series.
Varicella Vaccine Is a Live Vaccine
The varicella vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine, which means it contains a weakened form of the varicella-zoster virus. It is contraindicated for individuals who are pregnant, severely immunocompromised, or have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose or vaccine component. If you have any of these conditions, titer testing may be particularly important to determine whether you already have immunity, potentially avoiding the need for vaccination.
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.