What to Expect During Your Immigration Medical Exam
If you’re applying for a green card, visa, or other immigration benefits in the United States, one of the steps you’ll likely need to complete is an immigration medical exam. While the idea of a medical evaluation may feel stressful, knowing what to expect ahead of time can ease your worries and help you feel more prepared.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know from what to bring to what happens during the exam itself.
To book your appointment, visit our Immigration Physical Exam page.
Why an Immigration Medical Exam Is Required
The U.S. government mandates immigration medical exams to ensure that applicants do not have any health conditions that could pose a public health risk or make them ineligible for immigration.
These evaluations are conducted by certified physicians, also known as Civil Surgeons, who follow specific medical guidelines set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Learn more about our experienced providers on the Our Physicians page.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
To ensure a smooth process, make sure you have the following with you:
- A valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license)
- Vaccination records
- Form I-693, if not already provided by the clinic
- Medical history details (e.g., past illnesses, surgeries, or medications)
- Eyeglasses or hearing aids, if applicable
If you’re missing any documents, don’t worry, your provider will guide you on how to get what’s needed. You can also schedule a Healthcare Consultation to clarify any questions ahead of time.
What Happens During the Exam
The exam is typically straightforward and includes the following components:
Physical Examination
Medical History Review
Required Lab Tests
Tests may include:
- Tuberculosis screening (TB test or chest X-ray)
- Blood test for syphilis
- Urine test for gonorrhea
Learn more about our accurate, in-house Lab Services that support these screenings.
Vaccination Verification
The physician will check if you’re up to date on required vaccines, such as:
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Tetanus
- Influenza (flu)
- COVID-19
- Hepatitis B
If you’re missing any, you may be offered vaccines during the exam or referred to Vaccination Services.
Processing Time
The exam usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your medical history and whether vaccines or additional tests are required. After completing all components, the physician will fill out Form I-693, seal it in an envelope, and hand it to you to submit to USCIS.
Please do not open the sealed envelope—USCIS requires it to remain sealed for submission.
What If a Health Issue Is Found?
Tips for a Smooth Exam
Hydrate Well and Get a Good Night’s Sleep:
Drinking enough water helps ensure smoother blood and urine sample collection. A restful night before the exam keeps your vitals in check and helps you feel more alert and cooperative during the assessment.
Arrive Early to Avoid Delays:
Arriving 15–30 minutes early allows you time to fill out any required paperwork, calm your nerves, and avoid last-minute rushing, which could raise your blood pressure or stress levels.
Dress Comfortably:
Wear loose, comfortable clothing as you may need to roll up sleeves, lie down for examination, or provide urine samples. Avoid complex outfits or accessories that take time to remove.
Eat a Light Meal Beforehand:
Unless you’re specifically instructed to fast, eat a light, healthy meal before your appointment. This helps avoid dizziness or fatigue, especially if blood tests are involved.
Be Honest About Your Medical History:
Doctors aren’t there to judge you. Being open and transparent ensures accurate reporting and prevents issues during immigration processing later on.
Avoid Alcohol or Excessive Caffeine:
At least 24 hours before your exam, avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine as they can affect your blood pressure and lab results.
Review Your Vaccination Status in Advance:
If you’re unsure of your vaccination history, try to get them updated beforehand to avoid repeat visits. Immigration requirements often include MMR, Hepatitis B, Tdap, and influenza shots.
Stay Calm and Collected:
Try to relax. This isn’t a pass/fail test, it’s simply a part of the immigration process. Being calm helps your physical exam (especially blood pressure readings) go smoothly.