Is the COVID vaccine required?
Yes. Effective July 25, 2022, applicants aged 6 months and older undergoing an immigration medical exam must complete the COVID-19 vaccine series. Documentation of vaccination must be presented to the civil surgeon in person.

How long is the Medical Report Form I-693 valid?
As of April 4, 2024, USCIS announced that any Form I-693 completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, does not expire and can be used indefinitely as proof that the applicant meets health-related requirements. Read more

Do I need to fast before lab tests?
No fasting is required. You may eat normally before the exam.

Do my lab results expire?
Yes, lab results are only valid for 30 days due to the nature of infectious disease testing.

What tests are required for the USCIS Medical Exam?
For applicants aged 2-17, a tuberculosis blood test is required. For those aged 18-24, syphilis, gonorrhea, and tuberculosis tests are required. For ages 25-44, syphilis and tuberculosis tests are needed, and applicants 45 and older require a tuberculosis test.

If I don’t have my vaccination record, do I need to get all my shots again?
No, we can perform blood titer tests to determine immunity levels for varicella, measles, mumps, and rubella.

What immunizations are needed?
Immunizations vary by age. Please refer to the “Required Immunizations” list.

When is flu season?
Flu season is from October 1 through March 31 each year.

Can I use insurance to pay for the USCIS medical exam?
Most major health insurance plans cover flu and Tdap shots at retail pharmacies. Some plans may also cover lab work.

When should I submit my Form I-693 to USCIS?
After filing your initial application, USCIS will provide specific instructions on when and how to submit Form I-693.

How quickly can I get my medical report?
Medical reports are usually ready within 7 days of the initial appointment.

Do I need to pick up the medical report in person?
You may pick it up in person or have it mailed to you via FedEx for an additional fee. We do not mail reports directly to USCIS.

Do I need to fill out Form I-693 in advance?
No, we handle the entire preparation of Form I-693 and will review it with you before signing.

Do I need a chest X-ray?
Only if the tuberculosis blood test returns a positive result. An X-ray, if needed, costs about $40.

Do I need to repeat a tuberculosis test if I’ve previously tested positive with a skin test?
Yes, the PPD skin test is no longer used. Instead, we perform the QUANTIFERON TB GOLD PLUS blood test to detect tuberculosis.

Do I need to fill out Form I-693 in advance?
No, we handle the entire preparation of Form I-693 and will review it with you before signing.

Will I receive my lab results even if the medical report is in a sealed envelope?
Yes, a sealed envelope indicates that you are medically cleared for USCIS requirements. You will be informed if any further treatment is needed before sealing.

Can I use recent STD test results from my primary doctor for the USCIS exam?
No, the USCIS civil surgeon must order and oversee all tests required for the immigration medical exam.

Can my primary doctor provide some of my immunizations and lab tests?
Yes, you may get certain immunizations, blood titers, and the QUANTIFERON TB GOLD PLUS test from your primary doctor.