Green Card Medical Exams NYC: What to Expect & How to Prepare

If you are applying for a green card in the United States, you must undergo a USCIS medical exam, also known as an immigration medical exam. This exam is a crucial step in the green card application process and ensures that applicants meet the health standards set by the U.S. government.

What is a Green Card Medical Exam?

The green card medical exams NYC is a mandatory health screening required for all individuals applying for permanent residency in the U.S. The purpose of the exam is to check for infectious diseases, vaccination compliance, and overall medical fitness.

This exam must be conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon for applicants adjusting status in the U.S. If you are applying through consular processing outside the U.S., you must visit a panel physician designated by the U.S. Department of State.

Who Needs a Green Card Medical Exam?

You need a medical exam if you are:
 Applying for a green card (lawful permanent residency) in the U.S.
 Seeking an adjustment of status through family, employment, asylum, or diversity lottery.
 A refugee or asylee applying for permanent residency.

Even if you are in excellent health, the medical exam is mandatory for all applicants.

What to Expect During a Green Card Medical Exam in NYC

The USCIS medical exam consists of several key components:

1. Review of Medical History

The doctor will ask about your past and current medical conditions, including:

• Chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure)
• Hospitalizations or surgeries
• Mental health history
• Drug and alcohol use

2. Physical Examination

The doctor will perform a full-body physical exam, checking:

• Height, weight, and blood pressure
• Heart, lungs, and abdomen
• Ears, eyes, nose, and throat
• Skin and neurological health

3. Required Vaccinations

USCIS requires applicants to be up to date on specific vaccinations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. These include:
 Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
 Hepatitis B
 Influenza
 Tetanus and Diphtheria (Tdap)
 Varicella (Chickenpox)
 COVID-19 (per USCIS guidelines)

4. Tuberculosis (TB) Testing

• Applicants aged 2 and older must take a TB blood test (IGRA test).
• If the test is positive, you may need a chest X-ray.

5. Syphilis & Gonorrhea Testing

• Applicants aged 15 and older must undergo syphilis (blood test) and gonorrhea (urine test) screening.

6. Drug and Alcohol Screening

• The doctor may ask about substance use history.
• If there is a history of substance abuse, additional medical evaluation may be required.

7. Mental & Behavioral Health Assessment

• The civil surgeon will assess mental health conditions, especially if they could pose a public safety risk.

How to Prepare for Your Green Card Medical Exam in NYC

Proper preparation can help avoid unnecessary delays.

1. Gather Required Documents

Bring the following:
Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate)
Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) – provided by the doctor
Vaccination records (translated if necessary)
Medical history records (especially if you have chronic conditions)
List of current medications

2. Be Prepared for Additional Vaccinations

If your vaccine records are incomplete, you may need additional shots during your visit.

3. Follow Pre-Test Instructions

• Some tests (e.g., blood work) may require fasting. Check with your doctor.
• If you had previous TB treatment, bring related medical records.

4. Budget for the Exam

 The cost of a green card medical exam varies by provider but typically ranges from $250 to $500.
Health insurance usually does not cover the exam, so be prepared to pay out of pocket.

What Happens After the Medical Exam?

1. Completion of Form I-693

Once the exam is complete, the civil surgeon will:

• Fill out Form I-693
• Place it in a sealed envelope (DO NOT OPEN)
• Provide you with a copy for your records

2. Submitting Your Form I-693 to USCIS

• If you haven’t filed Form I-485 yet, submit Form I-693 along with your green card application.
• If you have already applied, you can mail it to USCIS when requested or bring it to your green card interview.

3. Exam Validity

• Your medical exam results are valid for 2 years from the date the doctor signs Form I-693.

Common Reasons for Medical Exam Delays

Missing Vaccination Records – Bring documented proof of immunizations.
Positive Tuberculosis Test – This may require a chest X-ray and additional clearance.
Unsealed Form I-693 – USCIS will reject the form if the envelope is opened.
Substance Abuse History – Additional medical evaluations may be needed.

Conclusion

The Green Card Medical Exam in NYC is a key step in the immigration process, ensuring that applicants meet public health and vaccination requirements.