More than 15% of United States residents are immigrants, accounting for 19% of the labor force. If you want to live or work in the US, you’ll likely need to undergo an immigration medical exam, which the government requires to confirm that applicants meet health standards set by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Only a USCIS-approved civil surgeon can perform immigration medical exams. At Wake Family Medicine, our designated civil surgeons follow strict federal guidelines to make sure your paperwork meets all requirements. We aim to keep the process organized, clear, and as stress-free as possible.
An immigration medical exam is a health screening required for many green card and visa applicants. The exam doesn’t judge your overall well-being; instead, it focuses on identifying certain aspects of your health that are vital to a successful immigration application.
Your visit includes several key parts:
We’ll ask about past illnesses, surgeries, medications, mental health history, and any history of substance use. You should answer honestly and completely so we can complete your paperwork accurately.
We check your vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, and record your height and weight. We listen to your heart and lungs and examine your abdomen, skin, and other basic systems.
Most applicants need tuberculosis testing, which usually involves a blood test called an interferon gamma release assay (IGRA). If your result shows concern for TB, we’ll arrange a chest X-ray for further evaluation.
If you meet the age requirements, we’ll test for specific infections such as syphilis. We follow federal guidelines when we determine which tests you need.
USCIS requires proof of certain vaccinations. These often include:
If you’re missing required vaccines, we can give them during your visit or schedule them promptly so you don’t face delays.
We document your results on Form I-693, which you submit to USCIS with your immigration application.
Most people applying for lawful permanent residency (a green card) must complete this exam. Many individuals adjusting their status inside the United States also need one. If you’re unsure whether you need an exam, review your USCIS instructions or ask your immigration attorney.
At Wake Family Medicine, we understand how important this step is in your immigration journey. We answer your questions, explain what to expect, and help you move forward with confidence.
To keep your appointment running smoothly, bring:
If you don’t have vaccination records, we may recommend blood tests to check your immunity to certain diseases.
Preparing for your immigration medical exam doesn’t take much time. Here’s what we recommend:
You usually don’t need to fast unless we give you specific instructions. Wear comfortable clothing so we can complete your physical exam easily.
The exam focuses on specific public health concerns; it doesn’t penalize you for common conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure (hypertension). If you manage chronic illnesses appropriately, they won’t automatically affect your immigration status.
If we identify a communicable disease that requires treatment, we’ll explain what steps you need to take before we complete your form. We’ll guide you clearly so you understand what comes next.
We complete the physical exam portion during your visit, then the lab results typically return within a few days. Once we receive all the required information, we finalize your Form I-693 in accordance with USCIS guidelines and seal it for submission.
We’ll contact you as soon as your paperwork is ready. Don’t open the sealed envelope before you submit it to USCIS. If you do, USCIS will reject it.
If you need an immigration medical exam, contact Wake Family Medicine by calling our office or completing the online inquiry form. We’ll help you take the next step in your immigration journey efficiently and accurately.
