The EB 3 visa medical exam is an essential requirement for every applicant who seeks to obtain a green card through the EB 3 program. United States immigration law requires this exam to protect public health and ensure that all incoming residents meet vaccination and health standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This exam serves as a safeguard for both the applicant and the community, and it is a step that must be completed before any interview or final approval.
Many applicants are surprised by how detailed the process is, and some feel unsure about what to expect. The EB 3 visa medical exam involves a careful review of personal medical history, an evaluation of current health, and a verification of all required vaccination records. Understanding each part of the process can help applicants prepare early and avoid delays that may affect their interviews or their overall immigration timeline.
Applicants who are following the EB 3 process through Adjustment of Status (AOS) inside the United States will complete the exam differently from those who apply through Consular Processing (CP) abroad. These two pathways follow separate sets of rules and the medical exam is one of the most noticeable differences between them. As of 2025, approximately 46 million people living in the United States were born outside the country, including immigrants, refugees and other migrants.
The EB-3 medical exam also plays an important role in confirming that applicants are physically and mentally fit to live permanently in the United States. Doctors evaluate several aspects of health to detect conditions that may need treatment before a visa can be approved. Most applicants pass the exam without difficulties especially when they know what to bring and what the exam includes.
As of January 2024, an estimated 12.8 million lawful permanent residents were living in the United States. To help guide the process, applicants may also explore the EB3 Work Knowledge Base which provides information about various steps in the EB 3 visa journey.
What the EB 3 Visa Medical Exam Is
In fiscal year 2024 the United States issued 612,258 employment based immigrant visas including EB-3. The exam must be completed by a doctor who is approved by the United States for immigration medical examinations. The type of doctor and the procedures used will vary depending on whether the applicant is applying through Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing.
Adjustment of Status versus Consular Processing: How the Medical Exam Differs
The Diversity Visa program granted 53,339 visas during FY 2024. Applicants inside the United States must complete their exam through a USCIS designated civil surgeon. These applicants use Form I-693, and the doctor must sign and seal the form before it is submitted.
Applicants adjusting status can submit the sealed Form I 693 with their I 485 packet or bring it later to their USCIS interview. The exam is valid only when it remains sealed because USCIS will not accept opened envelopes. This form is used exclusively by those applying for a green card from inside the country.
Applicants outside the United States must complete the exam through a panel physician approved by the United States Department of State. These doctors follow CDC technical rules and may submit results electronically or provide a sealed envelope for the applicant to take to the consular interview. The exam must be completed at a clinic approved by the embassy or consulate handling the visa case.
Here are the key differences between AOS and CP exams. AOS uses a civil surgeon while CP uses a panel physician. AOS requires Form I 693 while CP does not use this form, and AOS results go to USCIS while CP results go to the consular officer.
Who Needs the EB 3 Visa Medical Exam
Immediate relatives received a total of 265,467 immigrant visas during Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. All principal applicants and their immediate family members must complete the exam. This requirement applies to adults, teenagers, infants and young children based on CDC vaccination guidelines. You can read more about the filing process inside the country through the EB3 Work Knowledge Base section on Form I 485.
What the Medical Exam Includes
The doctor will begin by verifying your identity using your passport and personal information. This ensures that your medical results are matched correctly to your immigration case. It also helps prevent errors or delays during processing.
The doctor will review your personal medical history. You may be asked questions about past illnesses, any surgeries, mental health issues or use of substances. This review helps identify any conditions that may require further testing.
A physical exam is also required for all applicants. The doctor checks the heart, lungs, abdomen, vision, hearing, skin and general mobility. The purpose is to confirm overall health and rule out any significant concerns.
The doctor will review your vaccination history according to CDC requirements. Vaccines commonly required include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Polio, COVID, Influenza, and Tdap, although the specific vaccines vary based on age.
Most applicants need an IGRA blood test for tuberculosis (TB) screening. This test checks for TB exposure and helps determine if further testing is needed. The IGRA test is standard for most immigrant visa applicants.
A chest X ray may be necessary if your TB test is positive or if your medical history suggests a risk of tuberculosis. This ensures early detection and proper treatment if needed. Some applicants may not require an X ray unless indicated by the doctor.
The doctor will also test for certain communicable diseases. These diseases are defined under CDC rules and include conditions of public health importance. Since individuals with HIV infection may not have an abnormal chest x-ray or a positive IGRA even when they have infectious tuberculosis, and because a negative IGRA cannot rule it out, all HIV-positive applicants are required to provide three sputum specimens for smear and culture.
Required Documents to Bring
• Passport
• Four to six passport style photos
• Vaccination records
• Medical records from prior treatments
• List of current medications
• Visa interview appointment letter for CP
• I 485 receipt notice for AOS updates
• Payment for the examination fees
Missing documents may lead to extra vaccinations or additional testing. It may also delay the sealing of your results or the submission of your exam. Bringing complete records helps reduce extra costs and processing time.
How Much the Medical Exam Costs
More than 200 U.S. embassies and consulates globally work with panel clinics to manage medical exams for immigrant visa applicants. Costs depend on the country where the exam is performed and the type of doctor involved. Exams outside the United States usually range from one hundred fifty to five hundred dollars depending on local fees. Exams inside the United States may range from two hundred to six hundred dollars based on the civil surgeon.
Vaccines can increase the total cost. Some clinics may charge separately for laboratory tests or X rays. Applicants should ask about pricing before scheduling the appointment.
How Long the EB-3 Medical Exam Results Are Valid
Medical exam results are usually valid for six months after the exam date. If TB treatment is required or if follow up testing is needed, validity may be reduced to three months. You can review guidance from the United States Department of State
AOS applicants must make sure their exam remains valid until USCIS finishes reviewing their case. If the exam expires before USCIS completes adjudication, a new exam may be required. CP applicants usually only need results valid at the time of the interview.
How the Results Are Delivered
For Consular Processing applicants, results may be uploaded electronically by the clinic through the eMedical system. Some clinics may provide a sealed envelope that must be taken to the consular interview. Applicants must not open the sealed envelope under any circumstances.
For Adjustment of Status applicants, the civil surgeon gives the applicant a sealed Form I 693 envelope. Applicants may keep a photocopy of the form and the vaccination record for their own records. USCIS will reject any envelope that has been opened. More than half of all permanent residents in 2024 lived in California, New York, Texas or Florida.
Common Reasons for Delays
Delays may happen when applicants do not bring vaccination records. Some delays are also caused by positive TB tests that require additional X rays or follow up exams. Other delays involve missing identity documents or clinics that run out of required vaccines.
COVID vaccine requirements can also cause delays in certain regions. Some clinics may require fasting before blood work which can extend the appointment time. Applicants should schedule their exams early, ideally one to two weeks before the CP interview or early in the AOS process.
What Happens If You Fail the Medical Exam
Certain medical conditions may cause temporary or permanent medical inadmissibility. These include active TB, specific communicable diseases, missing vaccines, certain behavior related mental health conditions and current drug abuse or addiction. Each condition is reviewed according to United States immigration laws.
Many exam issues can be resolved by following the doctor’s instructions. Missing vaccines can be administered during the appointment and usually do not prevent approval. TB treatment causes delays but does not automatically stop the visa process.
Some applicants may qualify for medical waivers depending on the condition. These waivers must follow United States immigration rules and often require strong documentation. Applicants should follow doctor recommendations carefully to avoid unnecessary delays.
How To Prepare for the EB-3 Medical Exam
Step 1: Confirm whether you are AOS or CP
The type of exam depends on whether you are applying inside or outside the United States. Applicants inside the country are AOS while applicants outside are CP. Understanding your path helps you find the correct doctor.
Step 2: Find the right doctor
AOS applicants must use a USCIS civil surgeon. CP applicants must use a panel physician approved by the United States embassy or consulate. Only these doctors can complete valid immigration medical exams.
Step 3: Review Form I-693 for AOS applicants
AOS applicants must bring Form I-693 and only the civil surgeon may complete and sign this form. Applicants should review the form to understand what information will be required.
Step 4: Gather your medical and vaccination records
Collecting medical records helps reduce extra vaccines or tests. Old records should be organized and easy to read. Bring all relevant documents to avoid delays.
Step 5: Bring your passport and required photos
No exam can begin without proper identification. Passport style photos are needed for your file. Bring extra copies in case the clinic requests them.
Step 6: Follow your clinic instructions
Some clinics require fasting before blood work. Others may provide special instructions for X rays or vaccines. Following instructions helps the exam proceed smoothly.
Step 7: Keep copies of all documents
AOS applicants should keep a copy of the vaccination record and completed Form I 693. CP applicants should keep a copy of the DS 3025 vaccination worksheet. Personal copies help if you need to show proof later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the EB 3 visa medical exam?
The EB 3 visa medical exam ensures that applicants do not have diseases that could affect public health in the United States. The exam also checks vaccination records to confirm that the applicant meets CDC requirements. These requirements help protect both the applicant and the community.
The medical exam also checks general physical fitness. The doctor will evaluate important body systems and look for significant health problems. This information helps USCIS and the Department of State confirm eligibility for immigration.
The goal of the exam is not to disqualify applicants but to ensure safety. Most medical findings can be treated or corrected before approval. Following the doctor’s recommendations helps avoid issues.What vaccines are required for EB 3 visa applicants?
Vaccination requirements are based on CDC guidelines. Common vaccines include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Polio, Tdap, Influenza and COVID. The exact vaccines needed depend on your age and medical history. Children follow a different schedule from adults. Pregnant applicants may have separate instructions based on safety considerations.
Doctors will review your vaccination cards during the appointment. They will let you know which additional vaccines are required. Missing vaccines can normally be given at the clinic.What is the difference between the AOS medical exam and the CP exam?
The AOS exam is completed inside the United States. It uses a USCIS civil surgeon and requires Form I 693 which must be sealed by the doctor. USCIS reviews these exams when deciding green card applications.
The CP exam is completed outside the United States. It uses a panel physician approved by the Department of State. Some clinics send results electronically while others give applicants sealed packets.
Both exams follow CDC technical rules. The main difference is who completes the exam and where the results are submitted. Applicants should understand which path applies to their case.Do I need the medical exam if I am adjusting status inside the United States?
Yes, every AOS applicant must submit Form I 693. This is required even if the applicant had a previous immigration medical exam. Form I 693 is part of the I-485 process described. USCIS requires the sealed form as part of the green card review. Without it, the agency cannot complete adjudication of the case.
Some applicants choose to submit the exam with the I 485 while others wait for a request. Submitting the exam early may help reduce delays. Some applicants prefer to wait so that the exam does not expire before USCIS reaches their case. Both choices are acceptable depending on personal circumstances.Can I fail the medical exam because I do not have vaccine records?
No, a lack of vaccine records does not cause failure. The clinic will simply administer the missing vaccines during the appointment. This ensures applicants meet CDC guidelines before approval.
Some applicants cannot locate old records due to relocation or lost papers. Clinics are familiar with these situations and can work with you. In most cases the doctor can determine what is required and proceed.
Receiving vaccines on site may increase the final cost. It however does not stop the applicant from completing the immigration process. Vaccines are considered one of the simplest issues to resolve.How long does the medical exam take?
The appointment usually takes one to two hours. The exact time depends on the clinic workload and whether extra tests are required. Some applicants may finish earlier if records are complete.
If the doctor requests lab work or an X ray, the visit may take longer. Additional testing may add days to the overall timeline but not always to the appointment itself. Applicants should plan time for possible delays.
Scheduling early helps avoid time pressure before the interview. Applicants in busy cities should book ahead. Many clinics allow online scheduling for convenience.How long are medical exam results valid?
Medical exam results are valid for six months for most applicants. If TB treatment is needed, validity may be reduced to three months. Consulates and USCIS cannot accept expired medical results.
AOS applicants should ensure their results remain valid throughout the review period. If the case takes longer, a new exam may be required. This is common during backlogs or when biometrics or interviews are delayed.
CP applicants usually do not need a second exam if they attend their interview promptly. However delays in scheduling could shorten validity. Applicants should confirm timing with the embassy.
Next Steps on Your EB-3 Journey
The EB 3 visa medical exam is an important milestone in your green card process, and taking time to understand each stage can help you avoid unnecessary delays. When you gather your records early and follow all instructions from the approved doctor, you set yourself up for a smoother and less stressful experience. Careful preparation also helps ensure that the medical results are complete and accurate before they are sent to USCIS or taken to the consulate.
Many applicants find that knowing what to expect reduces anxiety, especially when they understand how the exam fits into the overall immigration timeline. Whether you are applying through Adjustment of Status inside the United States or through Consular Processing abroad, being familiar with the required steps helps you move forward with confidence. When you approach your interview fully prepared, you can focus on presenting your case clearly and calmly.
Planning ahead is one of the most effective ways to make your EB 3 journey easier. This includes scheduling your exam early, asking questions at your clinic, and keeping copies of every document you receive. Staying organized makes it much easier to respond quickly if USCIS or the consulate requests additional information. About 8.7 million permanent residents were eligible for United States citizenship in January 2024.If you need further guidance, you can explore the EB3 Work Knowledge Base for detailed explanations about each stage of the immigration process. You may also read helpful blog posts that compare Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing in everyday language. For those who are still exploring employment options, the EB 3 jobs list provides updated opportunities and additional insights into available roles.
