Medical Exam

The USCIS Medical Exam for EB-3 Visa Applicants: Everything You Need to Know

What is the USCIS Medical Exam?

The USCIS medical exam is a required step for all EB-3 visa applicants to ensure they meet U.S. health standards before obtaining permanent residency. Conducted by USCIS-approved doctors inside the U.S. or panel physicians abroad, this medical evaluation identifies health conditions that could make an applicant inadmissible.

If you’re applying for a green card through the EB-3 visa, you’ll need to complete this exam either before filing Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) or before your consular interview (if applying from outside the U.S.). Understanding the process in advance will help you avoid delays.

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When and Where to Get the USCIS Medical Exam

When Should You Take the Medical Exam?

• If applying from inside the U.S. (Adjustment of Status):
  • You should complete the medical exam before filing Form I-485 or submit it later when requested by USCIS.
• If applying from outside the U.S. (Consular Processing):
  • You will take the medical exam before your immigrant visa interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy.

Where to Go for the Medical Exam

• Inside the U.S.: You must visit a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. Find one using the USCIS Doctor Locator.
• Outside the U.S.: You must see a panel physician authorized by the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. Check the State Department website for a list of approved doctors.

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What to Bring to the Medical Exam

To avoid delays, make sure you bring the following:
✅ Passport or government-issued ID (required for identity verification)
✅ Vaccination records (to prove you meet U.S. immunization requirements)
✅ Medical history (especially for chronic conditions or medications you take)
✅ Form I-693 (if applying within the U.S.—this must be completed by the doctor)
✅ Payment for exam fees (varies by location and provider)

Important Tip: If your vaccination records are not in English, bring a certified translation. If you don’t have records, the doctor may order blood tests to confirm immunity.

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What Happens During the USCIS Medical Exam?

1. Physical Examination

• General health check (height, weight, blood pressure, vision, etc.)
• Heart, lung, and abdominal exam
• Evaluation for any signs of infectious diseases

2. Tuberculosis (TB) Testing

• Applicants over 2 years old must take a TB blood test (Interferon-Gamma Release Assay – IGRA).
• If results are positive, a chest X-ray is required.

3. Syphilis and Gonorrhea Tests

• Required for applicants aged 15 and older.

4. Vaccination Requirements

USCIS requires applicants to be vaccinated against specific diseases, including:
✔ COVID-19
✔ Hepatitis B
✔ Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
✔ Tetanus and Diphtheria (Tdap)
✔ Varicella (Chickenpox)
✔ Influenza (during flu season)

If you haven’t received all required vaccinations, the doctor may administer them during your exam.

5. Mental and Drug Abuse Screening

• Applicants are screened for mental illnesses that may pose a risk to public safety.
• A history of drug abuse may result in inadmissibility, depending on severity.

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USCIS Medical Exam Costs and Processing Time

💰 Cost:

• In the U.S., costs typically range from $200 – $500, but prices vary by doctor and location.
• Outside the U.S., costs depend on the embassy’s designated doctors.

⏳ Processing Time:

• Most doctors provide results within 1-2 weeks.
• Some panel physicians send results directly to the U.S. embassy, while civil surgeons in the U.S. provide a sealed envelope for submission to USCIS.

Additional Costs: If you need extra vaccines, TB tests, or follow-up screenings, these may increase costs.

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What Happens After the Medical Exam?

For Applicants Inside the U.S. (Adjustment of Status – Form I-485)

• The doctor will provide a sealed envelope containing your results.
• The selaed envelope will contain the completed USCIS Form I-693.
• DO NOT open it! Submit it to USCIS along with Form I-485.

For Applicants Outside the U.S. (Consular Processing – DS-260)

• The doctor may send the results directly to the U.S. embassy.
• In some cases, you’ll receive a sealed envelope to bring to your visa interview.

What If There Are Health Issues?

• Minor conditions (like colds or high blood pressure) won’t affect your visa.
• Communicable diseases like TB, untreated syphilis, or active COVID-19 may delay your application until treatment is complete.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Not scheduling the exam early enough. Medical processing takes time, and delays can affect your visa timeline.
❌ Forgetting required documents. Bring ID, vaccination records, and Form I-693 (if in the U.S.).
❌ Not verifying the doctor’s credentials. Ensure the provider is USCIS-approved (U.S.) or a panel physician (abroad).
❌ Ignoring follow-up instructions. If you need additional tests or vaccinations, complete them promptly.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the USCIS medical exam valid?

The medical exam is valid for 2 years from the date of completion.

Can I take the medical exam before filing my EB-3 visa application?

Yes, but make sure it remains valid at the time of your case adjudication.

What if I don’t have vaccination records?

You may need blood tests to prove immunity or receive new vaccinations.

Can the medical exam delay my EB-3 visa process?

Yes, if you fail to meet vaccination or health requirements, your application could be delayed.

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Final Tips and Next Steps

✅ Schedule your medical exam early to prevent delays.
✅ Ensure your vaccinations are up to date before the exam.
✅ Follow USCIS or embassy guidelines for submitting results.
✅ Stay informed! Check EB3.Work for more immigration updates.

Completing the USCIS medical exam is a key step toward obtaining your EB-3 visa and achieving your American dream. By preparing in advance, you can navigate this process smoothly and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

Watch our video for more info on the USCIS Medical Exam for EB-3 Visa Applicants…