Frequently asked questions
Q: What is a USCIS Form I-693 and what does your Immigration Medical Exam include?
A: It’s the medical exam required by USCIS for the green card application. We complete the exam, review your medical history and vaccine history, coordinate required tests/labs (based on USCIS/CDC rules), and prepare your I-693 paperwork for submission, including a sealed packet with the I-693 and required documentation.
Q: Who is this exam for?
A: People completing an immigration medical requirement for Adjustment of Status (Green Card) and other USCIS processes that require Form I-693.
Q: What should I bring to avoid delays?
A: Bring a government photo ID and any vaccination records from the US or your home country. If you have health issues, bring doctor letters/clearance notes and any relevant records (labs/imaging, TB treatment history, etc.).
Q: What happens at the appointment?
A: We review your history, perform the required physical exam, then determine what vaccines/tests you need based on your age and your medical history.
Q: Do you do blood tests and other required labs?
A: Yes—required tests/labs vary by age and medical history, and we coordinate what you need as part of the I-693 process
Q: Do I have to get vaccines with you?
A: Not necessarily. We’ll review your records and tell you what’s required. If you’re missing vaccines, you can get them with us or elsewhere. However, many patients prefer doing them here because it’s convenient and we can document everything correctly on the I-693 to help avoid delays.
Q: I don’t have vaccine records—what can I do?
A: Bring whatever you have. Depending on the situation, you may be able to repeat certain vaccines safely or use immunity blood tests (titers) for some vaccines.
Q: Will I receive my I-693 in a sealed envelope?
A: Yes. We provide the required documentation, including a sealed packet. Do not open any sealed documents—USCIS can reject it if opened.
Q: Can I get a copy for my records/attorney?
A: Yes, we can provide a printed or digital copy for your personal records (the sealed original is for USCIS).
Q: How many visits will I need?
A: Most people need two visits, to conduct the physical exam and sign and receive the I-693 Form. However, if you contact us beforehand to receive the blood test referral, you can come to the office only once.
Q: What if I have TB history or other medical conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.)?
A: Bring any documentation you have (treatment records, chest X-ray reports, physician notes, medication list, and recent clinician notes/clearance letters). This helps us complete your exam faster and avoid delays. If you have a positive TB test, we will refer you for a chest X-ray and document the results as required.
Q: How soon should I schedule my exam?
A: If you have a USCIS deadline or RFE, book as soon as possible. If you don’t have vaccine records or have complex medical history, earlier is better.
Q: How long does the process take ?
A: Most patients receive the completed I-693 within 2–5 business days. Timing can vary based on appointment availability, your vaccination records, and when lab results are finalized.
Q: Do you accept insurance for the immigration medical exam?
A: In most cases, insurance does not cover immigration medical exams or I-693 paperwork, so this service is typically self-pay. However, we can provide an itemized invoice that you can submit to your insurance plan—some plans may reimburse part of the cost depending on your coverage.
Q: What languages do you speak, and is an interpreter available?
A: We speak English, Spanish, Ukrainian, and Russian. If you need another language, you’re welcome to bring your own interpreter.
Q: What is the doctor’s gender?
A: The examining doctor is female.
Q: Can I bring medical or vaccine records from my home country, and do they need to be translated?
A: We accept medical and vaccination records from all countries. Translation is usually not required. If anything is unclear, we’ll review it with you during the visit.
Q: I’m sure I had vaccines, but my records are lost—what should I do?
A: There are usually two options: repeat certain vaccines, or do immunity blood tests (titers) for some vaccines. The doctor will advise the best option based on your age, history, and current USCIS requirements.
Q: How many vaccines can I get in one visit, and is it safe to do them all at once?
A: This can be discussed with the doctor during your appointment. In general, it’s often safe to receive multiple vaccines at once, but it depends on your medical history and which vaccines are required.
Q: What if I’m pregnant or can’t receive certain vaccines (medical exemption/contraindication)?
A: If you are pregnant or have a medical contraindication to a vaccine, you may be exempt from certain vaccines. The doctor will document this appropriately on the I-693 according to USCIS/CDC requirements, and will review the safest plan with you during the appointment.
Q: Is a drug test required for the I-693 exam?
A: No. A drug test is not required as part of the I-693 medical exam.
Q: Does the I-693 form expire?
A : In general, the sealed I-693 does not have a fixed expiration date, but USCIS policies can change.
Q: I’m changing my last name—what documents should I bring?
A: If you’re in the process of a name change, bring the documents you currently have (ID, passport, legal name change documents if available). If you have an attorney, it’s best to confirm with them how your application should be filed.
Q: How much does the USCIS Immigration Medical Exam (Form I-693) cost?
A: Pricing depends on age because USCIS-required lab testing varies. The physical exam fee is $285 (plus labs and vaccines if needed). Most patients fall into one of these total price tiers:
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Under 18 or 45 and older: $430 (TB test only)
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Age 18–24: $510 (TB, syphilis, and gonorrhea)
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Age 25–44: $480 (TB and syphilis)