1. What is Form I-693?
Form I-693 is a document used by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to record the results of a medical examination conducted by a designated Civil Surgeon for immigration purposes. The purpose of the form is to ensure that immigrants applying for a green card (permanent residency) are free from communicable diseases and are up to date on required vaccinations. The examination includes a review of the applicant’s medical history, physical examination, and any necessary laboratory tests. The completed form serves as evidence that the applicant meets the health-related requirements for immigration to the United States. It is essential for immigrants to have this form completed correctly and submitted as part of their application package to the USCIS.
1. The form requires the immigrant to provide personal information, medical history, and vaccination records.
2. The designated Civil Surgeon must fill out specific sections related to the medical examination, test results, and vaccination requirements.
3. It is crucial for applicants to follow the instructions provided by the USCIS regarding when and where to complete the medical examination and how to submit the form.
2. Who needs to submit Form I-693?
Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, must be submitted by applicants for U.S. immigration benefits seeking adjustment of status to that of a lawful permanent resident. Generally, this includes individuals applying for a green card within the United States or seeking immigrant visas from abroad. Applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by a designated civil surgeon approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and have the results recorded on Form I-693 to demonstrate that they are not inadmissible on health-related grounds. It’s important to note that the medical examination must be conducted no more than 60 days before the application for adjustment of status is filed with USCIS.
3. Where can I get Form I-693?
Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record for the United States, can be obtained from several sources:
1. USCIS website: You can download the most recent version of Form I-693 directly from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. The form is available in PDF format, which can be easily accessed and printed.
2. Civil Surgeon: Form I-693 must be completed by a designated civil surgeon in the United States. You can find a list of approved civil surgeons on the USCIS website. Schedule an appointment with a civil surgeon to undergo the required medical examination and vaccination assessment, and they will provide you with the completed Form I-693.
3. USCIS Office: In some cases, USCIS offices may provide Form I-693 during the immigration application process. If you are attending an interview or submitting additional documentation to USCIS, they may offer you a copy of the form or direct you to where you can obtain it.
It is crucial to ensure that you only use the most current version of Form I-693, as USCIS may reject outdated forms. Be sure to follow all instructions carefully when completing the form and comply with the vaccination requirements outlined by USCIS for immigration purposes.
4. How much does it cost to complete Form I-693?
The cost to complete Form I-693 can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the civil surgeon or immigration medical exam provider, any additional tests or vaccines required, and whether the applicant has health insurance that covers the exam. Typically, the fees associated with Form I-693 may include the cost of the medical examination, any necessary laboratory tests, and any vaccines required for immigration purposes. On average, the cost of completing Form I-693 can range from $200 to $500. It is advisable to contact a civil surgeon or immigration medical exam provider in your area to inquire about specific pricing and any potential additional costs.
5. What vaccinations are required for Form I-693?
The vaccinations required for Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record for the United States, are outlined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The required vaccines include:
1. Mumps
2. Measles
3. Rubella
4. Polio
5. Tetanus and Diphtheria toxoids
6. Pertussis
7. Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib)
8. Hepatitis A
9. Hepatitis B
10. Rotavirus
11. Meningococcal
12. Varicella
13. Pneumococcal
14. Influenza
15. Any other vaccinations recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for the age group of the applicant
It is essential to ensure that the medical provider completes the vaccination section of Form I-693 with the required vaccines documented, including dates, dosages, and any necessary waivers or exemptions. Missing or incomplete vaccinations may result in delays or issues with the immigration process.
6. How long is Form I-693 valid for?
Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record for the United States, is typically valid for two years from the date the civil surgeon signs it. However, there are certain circumstances that may affect the validity of the form:
1. If there are specific medical conditions that require further monitoring or treatment, the validity of the form may be shorter.
2. If the immigrant applicant does not file for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) within one year of the medical examination date, a new medical examination and Form I-693 may be required.
It is essential for applicants to ensure that they submit the most recent version of Form I-693, as USCIS will not accept older versions after a certain date.
7. Can I use a previous medical exam for Form I-693?
Yes, in some cases, you may be able to use a previous medical exam for Form I-693. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) typically requires that the medical exam be completed within one year of the filing date of your adjustment of status application. If your previous medical exam was completed within this timeframe and the civil surgeon who conducted the exam included all the required information and signatures on the Form I-693, you may be able to submit it. However, if there are any updates or additional vaccinations required since your last exam, these will need to be completed and documented on a new Form I-693. It’s important to carefully review the instructions provided by USCIS and consult with a qualified immigration attorney or civil surgeon to ensure compliance with all requirements.
8. What happens if I do not have all the required vaccinations for Form I-693?
If you do not have all the required vaccinations for Form I-693, there are several possible outcomes:
1. Incomplete Form: Your Form I-693 may be considered incomplete by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if you do not provide documentation of all the required vaccinations.
2. RFE (Request for Evidence): If your Form I-693 is deemed incomplete due to missing vaccinations, USCIS may issue an RFE requesting the missing information. You may be given a deadline to submit the required vaccination records.
3. Delay in Processing: Failure to provide the required vaccination records may result in a delay in the processing of your application for adjustment of status or other immigration benefits. This delay could impact your ability to move forward with your immigration process.
4. Potential Refusal of Application: In some cases, USCIS may refuse to approve your application if you fail to meet the vaccination requirements outlined in Form I-693. This could result in your application being denied.
It is crucial to ensure that you have all the required vaccinations before completing Form I-693 to avoid any complications or delays in your immigration process. If you are missing any vaccinations, it is advisable to consult with a civil surgeon designated by USCIS to get the necessary vaccinations and documentation.
9. Can a civil surgeon refuse to sign Form I-693?
Yes, a civil surgeon can refuse to sign Form I-693 under certain circumstances. Some reasons why a civil surgeon may refuse to sign the form include:
1. Incomplete or inaccurate information: If the information provided in the medical examination is insufficient or incorrect, the civil surgeon may refuse to sign the form until the necessary corrections or additional information is provided.
2. Missing vaccinations: If the applicant has not received all the required vaccinations, the civil surgeon may refuse to sign the form until the vaccinations are completed.
3. Ineligibility for adjustment of status: If the civil surgeon determines that the applicant is not eligible for adjustment of status based on medical grounds, they may refuse to sign the form.
4. Fraudulent activities: If there are suspicions of fraudulent activities or misrepresentation in the medical examination process, the civil surgeon may refuse to sign the form.
In these situations, it is essential for the applicant to address the issues raised by the civil surgeon in order to proceed with the completion of Form I-693.
10. Can I submit Form I-693 online?
No, as of the current guidelines, Form I-693 cannot be submitted online. The Form I-693 is a physical document that must be completed by a designated civil surgeon in the United States. It includes a report of medical examination and vaccination record that is required for the immigration process. Applicants must bring the Form I-693 to their appointment with the civil surgeon, who will complete the necessary medical examination and verify that the applicant has received all required vaccinations. The completed form must then be submitted in a sealed envelope to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the overall immigration application process. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by USCIS for submitting Form I-693 to ensure that the documentation is processed correctly.
11. Can I submit a photocopy of Form I-693?
No, you cannot submit a photocopy of Form I-693 for the purposes of immigration to the United States. The form must be completed by a designated civil surgeon in the United States and submitted in its original, sealed envelope. Photocopies of Form I-693 are not accepted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) because they cannot verify the authenticity and integrity of the document without the original, sealed envelope. It is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by USCIS regarding the submission of Form I-693 to avoid any delays or complications in the immigration process.
12. How long does it take to process Form I-693?
The processing time for Form I-693 can vary depending on several factors, including the volume of applications being processed by the USCIS at any given time. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for the USCIS to process Form I-693. However, there are some steps you can take to help expedite the process:
1. Make sure the form is completed accurately and all required vaccinations are up to date.
2. Submit the form as early as possible in your immigration application process to avoid delays.
3. Communicate with your designated civil surgeon and ensure they submit the form promptly to the USCIS.
Overall, patience is key when waiting for the processing of Form I-693, but taking proactive steps can help streamline the process.
13. What do I do if my Form I-693 expires before my immigration interview?
If your Form I-693 expires before your immigration interview, you will need to undergo another medical examination and have a new Form I-693 completed by a designated civil surgeon. Here are the steps you can take in this situation:
1. Schedule an appointment with a civil surgeon before your immigration interview to allow enough time for the completion of the new Form I-693.
2. Bring all necessary documentation and vaccination records to the appointment.
3. The civil surgeon will conduct a thorough medical examination, update any required vaccinations, and complete the Form I-693.
4. Submit the new Form I-693 to the appropriate immigration authorities before your interview to ensure compliance with the medical examination requirements for your immigration application.
It is important to keep track of the expiration date of your Form I-693 and take prompt action if it expires before your immigration interview to avoid any delays in the processing of your application.
14. Can I get a waiver for the vaccination requirements on Form I-693?
1. Waivers for vaccination requirements on Form I-693 are generally not granted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form is a crucial component of the immigration process, and vaccination requirements are in place to protect public health within the United States.
2. However, there are some limited circumstances in which a waiver or modification of the vaccination requirements may be considered. These exceptions typically arise for certain medical conditions that contraindicate vaccination, such as a severe allergy to a vaccine component or a compromised immune system.
3. If you believe you may qualify for a waiver or modification of the vaccination requirements on Form I-693 due to a medical condition, it is important to consult with a qualified civil surgeon who is authorized to conduct immigration medical examinations. The civil surgeon can assess your situation and provide guidance on the necessary steps to request an exemption or modification.
4. Keep in mind that any request for a waiver or modification of the vaccination requirements must be supported by medical documentation and justification. The decision ultimately rests with USCIS, and they will evaluate the request based on the information provided and the potential impact on public health.
5. It is important to approach this process carefully and thoroughly, seeking advice from experts in the field to ensure that your request for a waiver is handled appropriately and has the best chance of being considered by USCIS.
15. Can I appeal if my Form I-693 is denied?
If your Form I-693 is denied by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you do have the right to appeal the decision. Here is what you can do if your Form I-693 is denied:
1. Review the denial notice: The first step is to carefully review the denial notice you receive from USCIS. This notice will explain the reasons for the denial and provide instructions on how to appeal the decision.
2. File an appeal: If you believe that the denial was made in error or that there are grounds for appeal, you can file an appeal with USCIS. You will need to follow the instructions provided in the denial notice and submit any additional documents or information that may support your appeal.
3. Wait for a decision: Once you have filed the appeal, USCIS will review the case and make a decision. This process can take some time, so it is important to be patient throughout the appeal process.
4. Seek legal assistance: If you are unsure about how to proceed with your appeal or if you would like assistance in preparing your case, you may want to consider seeking legal assistance from an immigration attorney or accredited representative.
Remember that the decision to appeal a denial of Form I-693 should be made carefully, and it is important to follow the procedures outlined by USCIS to ensure the best possible outcome.
16. Can a family doctor complete Form I-693?
Yes, a family doctor can complete Form I-693, which is the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record for the United States. However, there are specific requirements that the family doctor must meet in order to be considered a designated civil surgeon authorized to perform immigration medical examinations.
1. The family doctor must be a U.S. licensed physician in good standing.
2. They must be designated as a civil surgeon by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
3. The family doctor must adhere to the specific guidelines outlined by USCIS for conducting immigration medical examinations and completing Form I-693 accurately.
It’s important to ensure that the family doctor meets all these requirements before allowing them to complete Form I-693 for immigration purposes.
17. Can I complete Form I-693 outside the United States?
Yes, Form I-693 can be completed outside the United States by a designated civil surgeon approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If you are residing overseas and need to complete the medical examination required for immigration purposes, you must find a civil surgeon authorized by USCIS to perform the medical examination. The designated civil surgeon will conduct the required medical examination, administer any necessary vaccinations, and complete Form I-693 as per USCIS guidelines. It is essential to follow all USCIS requirements and procedures when completing Form I-693 outside the United States to ensure that the medical examination is valid for immigration purposes.
18. What is the difference between Form I-693 and a regular medical exam?
Form I-693 and a regular medical exam differ mainly in their purpose and requirements:
1. Purpose: Form I-693 is specifically designed for immigration purposes to assess the health of applicants seeking to adjust their immigration status within the United States, obtain a visa abroad, or seek admission to the U.S. as a refugee. On the other hand, a regular medical exam is typically performed for general health assessment, preventive care, or diagnostic purposes and is not tied to immigration or visa requirements.
2. Requirements: Form I-693 is a standardized document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and must be completed by a designated civil surgeon authorized by USCIS. The form includes specific vaccination requirements and medical history information relevant to immigration. In contrast, a regular medical exam may be conducted by various healthcare providers and may vary in terms of the tests and assessments performed based on the individual’s needs.
3. Legal implications: Completion of Form I-693 carries legal implications as it is an official requirement for certain immigration processes. The information provided in the form can impact an individual’s eligibility to enter or remain in the United States. On the other hand, a regular medical exam does not have the same legal implications and is focused on individual healthcare needs without considerations for immigration status.
In summary, while both Form I-693 and a regular medical exam involve medical assessments, the key differences lie in their specific purpose, requirements, and legal implications. It is essential for individuals seeking immigration benefits to ensure they comply with the specific guidelines outlined in Form I-693 to avoid any delays or issues in their immigration process.
19. Can I request a copy of Form I-693 for my records?
Yes, you can request a copy of Form I-693 for your records. When you undergo a medical examination in the United States for immigration purposes, the civil surgeon who conducts the examination is required to complete and sign Form I-693. After the examination, you can request a copy of the completed Form I-693 from the civil surgeon. This form is an important document that provides information about your medical history, examination results, and vaccination records. Keeping a copy of Form I-693 for your records is essential, as you may need to provide it to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of your immigration application process. It is recommended to keep this document in a safe place along with your other immigration paperwork.
20. Are there any circumstances where Form I-693 may not be required for immigration purposes?
Yes, there are circumstances where Form I-693 may not be required for immigration purposes:
1. Adjustment of Status: In cases where the applicant is adjusting their status within the United States (Form I-485 process), they may not always need to submit Form I-693 along with their application. If a medical examination was completed within the past year as part of the individual’s immigration process, USCIS may not require a new medical examination.
2. Refugee or Asylee Status: Individuals applying for refugee or asylee status in the U.S. are often exempt from the requirement to submit Form I-693 at the time of their application. However, they may be required to undergo medical evaluations as part of their refugee or asylee processing, but these may not be submitted directly on Form I-693.
3. Inadmissibility Waivers: In some cases where the applicant is seeking a waiver of inadmissibility for medical reasons, such as a vaccination waiver, they may not need to provide Form I-693 as part of their application. The waiver application process may involve separate medical evaluations and documentation.
These are just a few examples of situations where Form I-693 may not be required for immigration purposes. It is essential for individuals to consult with an immigration attorney or a designated civil surgeon to determine whether submitting a Form I-693 is necessary in their specific case.