When applying for a green card or adjusting your immigration status in the United States, one important step is completing the Immigration Exams Las Vegas.
This Uscis Exam Las Vegas is required to ensure that all applicants are healthy and free from conditions that could affect public health or safety. Understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety and help you prepare properly.
Purpose of the Immigration Medical Exam
The immigration medical exam isn’t like a regular check-up at your doctor’s office. Instead, it’s a specific exam focused on determining if the applicant has any health conditions that could make them inadmissible to the U.S.
It helps the government ensure that new residents do not risk spreading infectious diseases or having untreated medical issues that could burden public resources.
The exam must be conducted by a designated civil surgeon approved by USCIS. You can’t simply visit your regular doctor unless they are authorized to perform these exams.
What Happens Before the Exam
Before your appointment, you should gather all your medical records, including vaccination history, past illnesses, surgeries, and any current treatments.
This is especially important if you’ve had previous health conditions or if you are missing any vaccinations. Having a clear and complete health history makes the process smoother and can help avoid delays.
You’ll also need to bring a valid form of identification, such as a passport, your Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record), and any documents USCIS requires for your specific case.
After the exam, the civil surgeon will complete and sign this form and give it to you in a sealed envelope to submit to immigration.
During the Physical Examination
At your exam, the civil surgeon will review your medical history. They may ask questions about any past illnesses, mental health conditions, surgeries, and current medications.
Honesty is important here—it’s better to be upfront about any conditions than to have something discovered later that could cause issues with your application.
The physical part of the exam includes a check of your general health. The doctor will listen to your heart and lungs, check your ears, nose, and throat, examine your skin, and look for signs of communicable diseases. You’ll also be checked for physical or developmental disorders needing attention.
Applicants age two and older are required to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) screening, which typically involves a blood test. If the test shows a potential TB infection, you may need a chest X-ray and follow-up with a specialist.
Vaccinations and Immunization Records
USCIS requires certain vaccinations based on your age and medical history. These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, and COVID-19, among others.
If your records show you’ve already had these vaccines, you may not need them again. But if you’re missing some, the civil surgeon will administer the necessary shots during your visit or ask you to return for them.
If you are pregnant or have specific health concerns, the civil surgeon may adjust or delay vaccinations based on your condition. Sometimes, a waiver may be requested if a vaccine is medically inappropriate or unavailable.
Testing for Communicable Diseases
The immigration exam also includes testing for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and sexually transmitted infections. For applicants between 15 and 65 years of age, a blood test for syphilis and a urine test for gonorrhea is standard.
These tests are required by law and cannot be skipped. If a test returns positive, the civil surgeon may recommend treatment before proceeding with your medical form.
While a positive result does not automatically make someone ineligible, it’s important that any condition is properly treated and documented. The civil surgeon will provide instructions on how to follow up if needed.
Mental Health and Substance Use Screening
The doctor may also ask questions about your mental health history. This is not to judge your character but rather to identify any mental health conditions that might affect your ability to function safely and independently.
Having a past mental health diagnosis does not mean automatic denial, but it’s important to show whether it is under control and properly treated. The doctor may refer you to a specialist or request further evaluation if necessary.
After the Exam: What Comes Next
Once your medical exam is complete, the civil surgeon will fill out Form I-693 and place it in a sealed envelope. Do not open this envelope. It must be submitted to USCIS exactly as provided. You can either submit it with your green card application or bring it to your interview, depending on where you are in the process.
Keep a copy of your medical records and vaccination report for your reference. If the form is not submitted correctly or is missing information, USCIS may request a repeat exam, which could delay your case.
Final Thoughts
The immigration medical exam is a necessary part of your journey to becoming a permanent resident in the U.S. While it may seem intimidating, it’s mainly about ensuring that public health is protected and that you are healthy enough to begin life in your new country.
At Partida Corona Medical Center in Las Vegas, we provide fast, professional, and compassionate care to help you confidently move forward. Book your immigration physical today and take the next step in your immigration journey with a team you can trust.
