Immigration medical evaluation clinic
When you’re applying for a green card or adjustment of status, the immigration medical evaluation clinic plays a vital role in your success. An immigration medical evaluation clinic is where a designated civil surgeon conducts the medical exam required by USCIS. This exam confirms that you’re free of certain communicable diseases, up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations, and do not have health conditions that make you inadmissible on public health grounds.
By understanding how an immigration medical evaluation clinic operates, you can prepare your documentation, anticipate costs, and ensure your Form I-693 is properly completed and submitted. Whether you’re filing Form I-485 or undergoing consular processing abroad, this guide helps you navigate every step of the exam.
Purpose and scope
The primary goal of the exam is to assess your overall health and compliance with U.S. entry requirements. Specifically, the clinic will:
- Verify vaccination records against CDC standards
- Screen for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea
- Evaluate mental and behavioral health conditions
- Identify any Class A or B conditions defined by public health regulations [1]
Once the exam is complete, the civil surgeon seals your signed Form I-693 in an envelope you must submit to USCIS without breaking the seal.
Who needs the exam
You must visit a USCIS-approved civil surgeon if you are:
- Filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence
- Applying for adjustment of status from within the U.S.
- Obtaining an immigrant visa through consular processing, in which case a panel physician abroad conducts a similar exam
If you’re not sure whether you need the exam, check the uscis immigration medical exam page or call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283.
Understand clinic requirements
Before you book your appointment, it helps to know the key requirements the clinic must follow. A government-approved civil surgeon in the U.S., or a panel physician abroad, must perform the exam to ensure compliance with Department of Health and Human Services regulations [2].
Designated civil surgeons
Only a USCIS-designated civil surgeon can complete and seal Form I-693 in the U.S. To find one near you, use the myUSCIS Find a Civil Surgeon tool or visit the uscis immigration medical exam resource. Civil surgeons have authority to:
- Conduct the full physical and mental evaluation
- Order laboratory tests and vaccinations
- Complete, sign, and seal Form I-693
Medical examination standards
The examination must adhere to federal guidelines, including:
- Reviewing your medical history and current medications
- Completing a thorough physical exam
- Ensuring all CDC-required vaccines are up to date
- Screening for Class A conditions (which render you inadmissible) and Class B conditions (which require further review but may not bar admission) [1]
If you have a history of mental illness, substance abuse, or a chronic medical condition, you must provide written certification that includes diagnosis, treatment duration, and prognosis [3].
Required medical components
Your immigration medical evaluation clinic exam typically includes four main components. Each one confirms that you meet health requirements for a visa or green card.
Physical examination
The civil surgeon performs a head-to-toe physical inspection, checking:
- Height, weight, and vital signs
- Vision and hearing
- Skin, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, abdominal, neurological systems
Laboratory testing
Standard lab tests identify infectious diseases of public health concern. Common tests include:
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Tuberculosis screening | Detect latent or active TB |
| Syphilis serology | Identify current or past syphilis infection |
| Gonorrhea testing | Rule out gonococcal infection |
Additional tests may be required based on your medical history or age.
Vaccination review
The surgeon reviews your immunization record against CDC recommendations. You must have proof of all age-appropriate vaccines, such as:
- Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
- Varicella
- Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap)
- Polio
- Influenza (seasonal)
If you lack any vaccinations, the clinic may administer them at extra cost.
Mental and behavioral health
As part of the exam, the civil surgeon assesses your mental and emotional health. You must disclose:
- History of psychiatric treatment
- Substance abuse or alcohol dependence
- Any harmful or violent behavior
This evaluation ensures you do not have a medical condition that poses a public health risk [3].
Handle special eligibility cases
Certain applicants have unique requirements during the immigration medical evaluation. Knowing these rules helps you avoid surprises.
Children under fifteen
- No chest X-ray or blood tests are required for applicants younger than 15 [3]
- Civil surgeons rely on physical examination and vaccination review
Pregnant applicants
- Pregnancy does not exempt you from a chest X-ray
- The clinic must use lead shielding and obtain your written consent before X-ray [3]
Disabilities and chronic conditions
If you have intellectual or learning disabilities, or ongoing medical treatments:
- Provide a detailed report of your condition and any special educational or supervision requirements
- Submit written certification from your treating physician, including diagnosis, treatment duration, and prognosis
Applicants treated for psychiatric illness, alcohol/drug abuse, or chronic health issues must furnish documentation to avoid delays.
Prepare for your appointment
Gathering the right documents and anticipating costs ensures a smooth exam process.
Documentation checklist
Bring the following to your immigration medical evaluation clinic:
- Signed but blank Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (don’t complete Part 2 until instructed) [4]
- Valid government ID (passport or driver’s license)
- Complete vaccination records
- Medical records for chronic or mental health conditions
- List of current medications
Completing Form I-693
- Fill out Part 1 of Form I-693 before your appointment, but do not sign it until the civil surgeon asks you to
- The surgeon completes Parts 2–4, signs, dates, and seals the form in an envelope
Expected costs
Immigration medical evaluation fees vary by civil surgeon. Typical ranges are:
| Cost component | Typical fee range |
|---|---|
| Physical examination | $200 – $350 |
| Laboratory tests | $150 – $300 |
| Vaccinations | Varies by shot |
| Total exam cost | $250 – $650 |
Insurance often does not cover this exam [5]. To compare fees, call several local civil surgeons and ask if they accept insurance.
Submission process guidelines
After the exam, you must handle Form I-693 correctly to avoid rejection.
Sealing and delivering Form I-693
- The civil surgeon seals the completed form and supporting documents in an envelope
- You must submit the sealed envelope unaltered to USCIS—breaking the seal or opening the envelope will lead to rejection
Deadlines and timing
- Schedule your exam at least 60–90 days before filing Form I-485 to allow time for vaccinations and paperwork
- Form I-693 is valid for two years from the civil surgeon’s signature date
Addressing class A and B conditions
- Class A conditions render you inadmissible and must be treated before re-examination
- Class B conditions require documentation but do not bar admission. USCIS reviews these on a case-by-case basis [1]
Selecting a certified clinic
Choosing the right civil surgeon and clinic can save you time and money.
Finding civil surgeons
- Use the myUSCIS Find a Civil Surgeon tool to locate approved providers near you
- Check clinic websites for USCIS designation and years of experience
Comparing services and fees
- Call at least three clinics to compare exam fees, lab costs, and vaccine charges
- Ask about multilingual staff if you require interpretation services
Evergreen Wellness Clinic in San Jose, CA, for example, offers comprehensive exams with multilingual support and clear instructions on Form I-693 submission [6].
Insurance and payment options
Although most civil surgeons set their own fees and insurance is rarely accepted, always inquire about:
- Sliding scale or payment plans
- Cash, credit card, or check options
- Any additional administrative charges
Compare related compliance exams
If you need other regulatory health exams for work, consider these related services:
dot physicals near you
Commercial drivers must pass a Department of Transportation exam. Find a certified provider with our dot physical near me resource.
faa medical certification
Pilots and air traffic personnel require FAA medical certification. Locate an faa medical exam provider or review the faa medical certification exam details.
respirator medical clearance
If you wear a respirator at work, you need a clearance exam. Check out a respirator medical clearance exam clinic such as those in Asheville.
Each of these exams follows its own regulatory guidelines but shares the need for designated medical professionals and proper documentation.
By understanding the requirements, preparing your paperwork, and choosing a qualified civil surgeon, you can complete your immigration medical evaluation clinic exam with confidence. Meeting these health standards is a critical step toward securing your U.S. immigration benefits.