Questions And Answers About Immigration Medical Exams
If you have a relative who will be moving to America in hopes of eventually becoming a U.S. citizen, he or she may first need a green card. The green card permits the person to work and live in the U.S. However, to apply for a green card, your relative will likely need to have an approved medical exam. Here is a bit of information about immigration medical examinations to help you better understand them:
Who governs the immigration process in the United States?
The immigration process is governed by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).This department ensures that green card applicants complete all the necessary requirements before a green card is issued.
Can any physician perform an immigration medical examination?
In order to be considered valid, your relative's examination must be performed by a USCIS-authorized physician. Thus, you may not be able to simply schedule an appointment with your personal doctor.
In the U.S., USCIS approves certain physicians, which are called civil surgeons, to conduct the examinations for people desiring green cards. Military doctors are approved to perform exams at military medical facilities that are located in the U.S. However, a panel physician who is approved by the Department of State, must conduct an immigration medical exam if it is completed in an area outside of the United States.
What tests are included in the examination?
During the exam, the physician tests the applicant for contagious diseases, such as syphilis. Ther results of the tests are shared with the applicant during a return visit.
What paperwork is an immigrant required to bring to an immigration medical examination?
A green card applicant must bring Form I-693 to his or her exam appointment. This special form is also called the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. The form must be completed by the examining physician and returned to USCIS in a sealed envelope.
In addition, a valid form of identification is needed, such as a driver's license or passport.
Immunization records and health insurance information may also be required.
Is the cost of an immigration medical examination the same regardless of the physician who performs the exam?
The cost of the medical exam may vary. Before scheduling the immigration medical exam, it's best to inquire about the types of payment that the physician accepts and the price of the examination.
For more information about immigration medical exams, contact USCIS.