An immigrant who applies for a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Immigrant Visa (outside of the United States), needs to receive vaccinations or prove that he/she has already received them according to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), section 212(a)(1)(A)(ii). The vaccinations are required to prevent infection from the following diseases:
- Mumps
- Measles
- Rubella
- Polio
- Tetanus and Diphtheria Toxoids
- Pertussis
- Haemophilus influenzae type B
- Hepatitis B
The applicant should find a civil surgeon (https://my.uscis.gov/findadoctor) and schedule an appointment for a medical examination. Not every doctor can provide such a medical examination. The civil surgeon will review the applicant’s vaccination records and let the applicant know if he/she is required any additional vaccines based on age, medical condition, etc.
The applicant is responsible to pay any fees for the medical examination and vaccinations, if needed. It’s good to contact a few civil surgeons and verify the price before any appointments. Different civil surgeons have different prices. Insurance will not cover the immigrant expenses.
The civil surgeon will complete the form I-693 Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/i-693.pdf) in a few days. It depends if the applicant requires additional vaccinations, tests, or any other treatment. The civil surgeon will give the applicant a sealed and signed envelope which should be mailed or brought in person to the USCIS or EOIR. The applicant cannot open the sealed envelope.
The applicant may ask the civil surgeon for a copy of the vaccination page for his/her own records.
If the applicant refuses to receive the required vaccination based on his/her moral beliefs or religion, the civil surgeon will mark it in the application. The applicant is required to submit an additional form to waive the required vaccinations (discuss it further with your attorney).
In case form I-693 is incomplete, the Immigration Officer or Judge can deny the application.
*For informational use only.
Photo by Steven Cornfield
