6 Ways to Prepare for an Immigration Medical Exam

If you’re applying for immigration to the United States, chances are that you’ll have to go through an immigration medical exam.

The exam is a crucial step in gaining legal residency, but it can be nerve-wracking if you don’t know what to expect. Fortunately, there are several things you can do before the day of your appointment to make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible!

With careful planning and knowledge of the process, you can rest easy knowing that everything will run smoothly and leave room for nothing but success when it comes time for your evaluation!

Keep reading to learn six essential steps for preparing for an immigration medical examination.

1) Bring proof of vaccination 

One of the most critical requirements for the exam is proof of vaccination.

To prepare for the immigration medical exam, ensure you bring your complete vaccination record with you. You should know that the USCIS requires certain vaccines for the exam, like influenza, pneumonia, measles, rubella, and mumps vaccines.

Without this important documentation, you may face delays and additional expenses.

2) Copy of your medical history 

Before attending the immigration medical exam, you might consider talking to your doctor about providing a copy of your medical records or any conditions you’ve had.

Your medical history could include the following:

• Any surgery
• Hospitalization or treatment
• Previous diagnoses of diseases like tuberculosis or HIV/AIDS.
• Any other ongoing medical conditions that you may have.

Having a copy of your medical records can save time and reduce the risk of confusion or miscommunication with the doctor during your exam.

3) Be honest with your doctor 

During the immigration medical exam, the doctor will ask questions about your medical history and other health-related issues. It’s important to remember that honesty is vital during this process.

Lying or withholding information from your doctor might damage your application and result in rejection. So, be honest and open with your doctor during the exam!

4) The USCIS Form I-693 

The USCIS Form I-693 is a requirement for nearly all applicants undergoing an immigration medical exam.

The USCIS-designated civil surgeon conducting the exam will then need to complete the form.

Remember that the form expires within two years, and if it expires before your visa is approved, you might need to undergo another exam.

5) Health insurance card

Bringing your health insurance card to the medical exam can be beneficial. It may help cover the cost of the exam and provide the doctor with information about your health insurance.

Make sure to check with your provider before your appointment to see if they cover the cost of the exam and what documents they require.

6) Payment

Even with health insurance, you may need to pay out of pocket. Make sure to bring enough money to cover the cost of the exam—on average, the medical exam costs between $100-$500.

If you can’t afford the cost of the exam, you could try contacting your primary care physician or a local community health center to determine if they offer low-cost medical exams.

Final thoughts

Preparing for your immigration medical exam can be intimidating, but taking the necessary steps beforehand may help ease your anxiety.

Preparing means:

• Bringing proof of vaccination
• A copy of your medical history
• Being honest with your doctor
• Bringing the USCIS Form I-693
• Your health insurance card
• Enough money to pay for the exam

Proximity also matters, so you should consider looking for a civil surgeon to perform an immigration medical exam near you.

Following these six practical tips will make you feel well-prepared for your medical examination to go smoothly.