Guide
USCIS Medical Exam Overview: What It Is and Why It’s Required
Educational framework only. Not medical or legal advice.
USCIS Medical Exam Overview: What It Is and Why It’s Required
Important Note
This page is for general information only. USCIS rules can change. Only USCIS and a civil surgeon decide what applies to your case.
What Is the USCIS Medical Exam?
The USCIS medical exam is a health check required for many immigration applications. It helps USCIS confirm that an applicant meets basic health-related rules set by the U.S. government.
The exam is done by a doctor called a civil surgeon. Only doctors approved by USCIS can perform this exam.
Why the Exam Is Required
USCIS uses the medical exam to review certain health factors. The exam is not meant to treat medical problems. It is only used to collect information for immigration purposes.
The exam looks at items such as:
- General health history
- Required vaccinations
- Specific medical conditions listed by USCIS
Who Usually Needs the Exam
Many people applying for permanent residence (a green card) need a USCIS medical exam. Some people may have completed an exam earlier in their process. USCIS decides when a new exam is required.
What the Exam Is Not
The USCIS medical exam:
- Is not a full physical checkup
- Is not medical care or treatment
- Does not guarantee approval of an application
The exam is only one part of a larger immigration review.
Where the Exam Happens
The exam takes place at a civil surgeon’s office. Each office may run the exam a little differently, but all must follow USCIS rules.
After the Exam
After the exam, the civil surgeon completes Form I-693. This form is given to the applicant in a sealed envelope or sent directly to USCIS, depending on instructions.
Applicants should not open sealed documents unless USCIS tells them to do so.
Resumen en español (informativo)
- El examen médico de USCIS es un requisito para muchos trámites migratorios.
- Solo médicos autorizados por USCIS pueden realizarlo.
- El examen no es tratamiento médico.
- USCIS decide cómo se usa la información.
Bottom Line
The USCIS medical exam is a required step for many immigration applications. It provides information to USCIS but does not decide the final outcome.