Posted on October 15th, 2025

 

Setting off on the journey towards a new chapter in the United States involves several key steps, one of which is the immigration medical exam. This process is a center piece of the immigration pathway, aimed at ensuring public health and safety as you transition into your new community. 

 

 

Recognizing the Purpose of the Immigration Medical Exam

 

The immigration medical exam is an important part of the U.S. immigration process. Its purpose is to verify that applicants meet the health standards established by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This evaluation safeguards public health while supporting the admission of healthy individuals into the community. Through physical assessments, mental health screenings, and lab tests, the exam confirms that you are free from conditions that could pose a risk to others.

 

The exam also helps identify and manage treatable conditions before they become barriers to approval. The process might seem procedural, but it ultimately protects both you and the public by maintaining high health standards. Here’s what makes this exam such an important part of immigration:

 

• Public health protection: Detects infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and ensures appropriate treatment if needed.

• Verification of vaccination compliance: Confirms that you meet U.S. immunization requirements, including vaccines for MMR, tetanus, and hepatitis.

• Medical transparency: Provides immigration officials with a clear overview of your physical and mental health status.

• Community readiness: Promotes healthier integration into the workforce and broader society.

 

Only physicians designated as civil surgeons (in the U.S.) or panel physicians (abroad) can perform this examination. They are trained in USCIS standards and familiar with the required documentation. 

 

 

Documents and Items You’ll Need for the Exam

 

Being prepared before your appointment saves time and prevents setbacks. Applicants who arrive with complete documentation often move through the process more efficiently. Civil surgeons and panel physicians rely on accurate information to complete your medical paperwork, so collecting your records in advance is key. To make preparation easier, keep this checklist in mind:

 

• Government-issued identification: Bring your valid passport or another official ID such as a driver’s license.

• Vaccination records: Carry your immunization history. If your records are incomplete or not in English, obtain a certified translation or ask about in-office updates.

• Medical records: Include hospital discharge summaries, surgical notes, or documentation of chronic conditions.

• Medication list: Provide current prescriptions and dosages to prevent possible interactions.

• Pregnancy status: Inform the physician if applicable, since certain tests or vaccines may need adjustment.

• Immigration paperwork: Bring any appointment letters, I-797 notices, or related USCIS forms.

 

These documents allow the physician to complete Form I-693 accurately, the official report that USCIS requires. Applicants with unique conditions—such as ongoing treatment for tuberculosis or mental health management—should bring documentation from their specialists. It clarifies current health management and prevents redundant testing. If vaccination records are missing, most clinics can administer the necessary immunizations during the visit.

 

 

Understanding the Costs of the Immigration Medical Exam

 

The immigration medical exam involves a few standard fees that can vary depending on your location and the clinic you choose. Because prices differ based on local rates and included services, confirming the full cost before booking helps you plan appropriately. Typical expenses may include:

 

• Exam fee: Usually ranges between $200–$500 depending on the physician’s location and required testing.

• Vaccination costs: Additional charges apply if updates are needed for vaccines such as varicella, hepatitis B, or influenza.

• Laboratory testing: Blood and urine tests for conditions like syphilis or gonorrhea may incur separate fees.

• Follow-up visits: If further evaluation or repeat tests are needed, clinics may bill additional appointment fees.

• Expedited services: Some applicants request faster results for time-sensitive immigration cases, which may include rush fees.

 

Each of these costs contributes to your total medical processing. Asking for a written estimate during scheduling clarifies what’s included and helps avoid confusion.

 

 

Avoiding Common Mistakes During the Process

 

Many applicants experience delays because of small but avoidable errors. Being proactive helps keep your process on schedule. The most frequent issues involve missing documentation, incomplete forms, or communication breakdowns between applicants and physicians. Here are a few steps that help prevent these mistakes:

 

• Double-check your paperwork: Review every form and verify all fields are completed and signed. Incomplete information often causes delays.

• Keep vaccination records updated: Missing or outdated vaccination proof is one of the most common issues during evaluation.

• Translate non-English documents: Certified translations avoid confusion and guarantee your medical history is properly understood.

• Confirm your appointment details: Miscommunication about location or timing can cause missed appointments. Verify confirmation emails or phone calls in advance.

• Communicate openly with your doctor: Inform your physician about all current conditions or treatments so your records are complete.

 

These small details prevent unnecessary rescheduling and help maintain consistency in your records.

 

 

Special Considerations for Families and Adjustment of Status

 

Families applying for immigration together often have unique scheduling and documentation needs. Each member—spouses, parents, and children—must undergo an individual medical exam, though certain results or vaccination records may overlap. Coordinating appointments together can simplify logistics and reduce costs by consolidating visits at the same clinic.

 

For those applying for an Adjustment of Status (AOS) within the U.S., timing is particularly important. USCIS requires that your Form I-693, which includes your medical results, be submitted within a specific timeframe relative to your application. Missing this window may lead to requests for updated exams, causing avoidable delays.

 

Families should also prepare shared or hereditary medical information. This helps physicians identify genetic conditions or shared health patterns relevant to your family’s review. A few helpful tips for family and AOS cases include:

 

• Book exams together: Coordinating family appointments streamlines paperwork and reduces waiting times.

• Monitor document validity: Make sure all forms are current at the time of submission.

• Track USCIS deadlines: Timing is key—complete your medical exams before interviews or employment permit milestones.

• Communicate changes: If you relocate or update your immigration status, inform your physician so they can adjust paperwork accordingly.

 

Each of these steps contributes to a more seamless experience for families dealing with complex timelines. By staying organized and prioritizing open communication, you align your medical exams with immigration milestones and reduce administrative hurdles.

 

 

Related: What You Should Expect During a DOT/CDL Physical Exam

 

 

Conclusion

 

Completing your immigration medical exam is an important step toward achieving your goals in the United States. While it can seem complex, proper preparation and awareness make the experience manageable. Bringing accurate documentation, budgeting for associated costs, and communicating clearly with your civil surgeon all play key roles in a smooth process. Beyond being a requirement, this exam represents a commitment to your health and to contributing positively to your new community.

 

At Express Care Urgent Care, we simplify this process with experienced USCIS-approved civil surgeons who provide accurate, efficient, and compassionate evaluations. Ready to schedule your immigration physical with a USCIS-approved provider? Click here to book your appointment. For questions or to arrange your visit, contact us at [email protected] or call (203) 288-1700.