Important Update: USCIS Now Requires A Medical Examination Report with Form I-485 Submission
If you’re applying for a Green Card, there’s an important update from USCIS that could affect your process. As part of filing Form I-485, which is your application to adjust your status and become a permanent resident, USCIS now requires certain applicants to include a medical exam report (Form I-693) when you submit your application.
Why the change? It’s all about USCIS attempting to make the process smoother and cutting down on delays.
In the past, you could opt to wait to send in your medical exam report later—sometimes during an interview or if USCIS specifically asked for it in an RFE. Generally this is done to quickly file an I-485 in a short period of time or if the civil surgeon’s appointment calendar is full. Now, certain applicants will need to include it upfront, so there are fewer back-and-forths and faster decisions on applications.
Knowing about this new rule early means you can plan ahead, avoid surprises, and keep your application moving forward without delays.
What’s changed for Form I-485 applicants?
Previously, Green Card applicants filing Form I-485 had some flexibility when it came to their medical exam report (Form I-693). You could, technically, submit it later in the process, like during your interview or in a response to an RFE as requested by USCIS. This gave applicants extra time to get their medical exams done after their application was already in.
Now, things are a little different. USCIS has introduced a new rule requiring certain applicants to include their completed medical exam report at the time they submit Form I-485.
This means no more waiting until later—your medical examination report has to be part of your application package right from the start.
Who is affected by the new rule?
This new requirement applies to certain applicants filing Form I-485. Here’s a breakdown of who needs to comply:
- Employment-based applicants: If you’re applying for a Green Card through your job, you’ll likely need to submit Form I-693 with your I-485 application.
- Family-based applicants: If you’re adjusting your status through a family member’s sponsorship, this rule may also apply to you.
- Other applicants: This requirement could affect other categories of applicants as well, so it’s important to check if it applies to your specific situation.
Exceptions and Waivers:
- Refugees and Asylees: Certain applicants in these categories may be exempt from this new requirement.
- Humanitarian programs: Some individuals applying under humanitarian status may also qualify for exceptions.
- Medical waivers: If you are unable to complete the medical exam for a valid reason, such as medical conditions, a waiver may be available.
Not sure if you’re affected? It’s always a good idea to consult with an immigration attorney to ensure you’re following the right process and avoiding any delays. Book a free consultation with Manifest Law.
What is Form I-693?
Form I-693, also known as the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is used to confirm that you’ve undergone a medical examination and have received necessary vaccinations.
Form I-693 ensures that you meet the public health requirements set by the U.S. government and helps determine that you don’t have any health conditions that could pose a risk to public safety, while the vaccination record ensures you’ve had the vaccines needed to prevent communicable diseases.
Process for Completing Medical Examination
Step 1: Schedule an appointment with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon
You’ll need to find a doctor who is approved by USCIS (called a civil surgeon) to conduct the medical exam. You can search for one in your area through the USCIS website here.
| Pro-Tip: Monitor the visa bulletin every month to see if you will become current the following month – the bulletin for the next month releases on or about mid way through a given month (e.g. February bulletin releases on or about January 15). The earlier you find out you are going to be current the better as you will have more time to schedule the relevant medical examinations needed. Civil surgeons usually have full calendars so it is important to request an appointment as soon as possible. |
Step 2: Complete required vaccinations and tests
The civil surgeon will assess your health, conduct necessary tests, and ensure that you’ve received the required vaccinations. If you’re missing any, you may need to complete them before the exam can be finalized.
Step 3: Receive a sealed report to include with your Form I-485
After the medical examination, the civil surgeon will provide you with a sealed copy of the medical exam report (Form I-693).
| Remember: This report must be included with your Form I-485 when you submit it to USCIS. It’s important that the report remains sealed to be accepted. Do not open the sealed envelope provided by the civil surgeon as USCIS will not accept a tampered report. |
How Manifest Law Can Help
Manifest Law is here to guide you through every step of the immigration process, including the Form I-485 and medical examination requirements. Our team of experienced lawyers can help ensure you meet all the health and safety standards needed for your Green Card application.
Whether you need help finding a USCIS-approved civil surgeon or making sure your I-693 is submitted correctly, Manifest Law is here to provide personalized support, making the process easier for you.
By working with an immigration attorney, you’re not just filling out forms—you’re gaining peace of mind and helping to avoid costly delays. Book your free consultation today.
