Immigration Medical Exams (I-693) Explained: Your Complete Checklist for 2026

Applying for a green card or adjusting your immigration status in the United States requires navigating a mountain of paperwork. Among the most critical requirements is the USCIS Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.

At Kingsway Medical Center, we frequently assist patients in El Paso with their immigration physicals. Dr. Adekunle Adedeji is a USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon, which means he is officially authorized by the U.S. government to perform these mandatory medical examinations.

Understanding what the exam entails and arriving prepared can significantly reduce your stress and prevent costly delays in your immigration process. Here is your complete guide to the I-693 medical exam.

Why is the Immigration Medical Exam Required?
Who Can Perform the Exam?
Your Pre-Appointment Checklist
What to Expect During the Physical
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is the Immigration Medical Exam Required?

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires a medical examination to ensure that prospective immigrants do not have public health conditions that would make them inadmissible to the United States.

According to the CDC's technical instructions for Civil Surgeons, the exam screens for communicable diseases of public health significance, ensures the applicant is up-to-date on required vaccinations, and checks for physical or mental disorders associated with harmful behaviors.

Protecting Public Health

The primary goal of the exam is to protect the public health of the United States. It is not a comprehensive physical meant to diagnose every potential illness you might have; instead, it is highly focused on specific public health criteria mandated by the government.

Who Can Perform the Exam?

You cannot go to just any doctor for your I-693 exam. USCIS strictly mandates that the examination must be performed by a Civil Surgeon who has been explicitly designated by the agency.

Dr. Adedeji is a proud USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon. Based on our clinical experience in El Paso, choosing a local, bilingual clinic like Kingsway Medical Center ensures that your paperwork is handled accurately, efficiently, and with the utmost care for your personal situation.

Your Pre-Appointment Checklist

To ensure your appointment goes smoothly, it is vital to come prepared. Bringing the correct documents will save you time and prevent the need for repeat visits.

What you must bring to your appointment:

Government-Issued Photo ID: A valid passport or a state-issued driver's license.
Form I-693: The most recent version of the form (available on the USCIS website). Fill out Part 1, but do not sign it until you are instructed to do so by the Civil Surgeon.
Vaccination Records: Bring all your immunization records. If they are in a language other than English, a certified translation may be helpful.
Medical History: Bring records of any previous treatments for tuberculosis (TB), syphilis, or mental health conditions.

Need a primary care provider for your ongoing health needs after the exam? Read our guide on Choosing a Primary Care Provider.

What to Expect During the Physical

The I-693 exam is generally straightforward. Here is what will happen during your visit to Kingsway Medical Center:

1. Medical History Review

We will review your medical history, looking specifically for past occurrences of communicable diseases, significant mental health conditions, and drug or alcohol abuse.

2. Physical Examination

The physical exam typically includes checking your eyes, ears, nose, throat, extremities, heart, lungs, abdomen, lymph nodes, and skin. We will also evaluate your mental status.

3. Blood and Urine Tests

The exam requires specific lab work. Applicants aged 15 and older must undergo blood tests for syphilis and a urine test for gonorrhea. Depending on your age and health history, a blood test for tuberculosis (IGRA) is also standard.

4. Vaccination Assessment

We will review your immunization records against the CDC's required list, which includes vaccines for COVID-19, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, and polio, among others. If you are missing any required vaccines, we can administer them at our clinic.

Securing Your Documents

Once the exam and lab results are complete, Dr. Adedeji will fill out the remainder of Form I-693. The form will be placed in a sealed envelope.

CRITICAL RULE: Do not open the sealed envelope! You must submit it to USCIS exactly as it was given to you. If the seal is broken, USCIS will reject the form.

Ready to Schedule Your Exam?

Don't let medical paperwork delay your immigration journey. Our bilingual staff is here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.

Call (915) 881-4155 to schedule your Immigration Medical Exam at Kingsway Medical Center today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long are the I-693 exam results valid? Under current USCIS guidelines (which frequently change, so always check the latest updates), an I-693 form that was properly completed and signed by a Civil Surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, retains its evidentiary value indefinitely.

Will my health insurance pay for the exam? Most health insurance plans do not cover immigration medical exams, as they are considered an administrative requirement rather than a medically necessary treatment. We offer competitive, transparent cash pricing for the exam and required lab work.

What happens if I test positive for a communicable disease? Testing positive does not automatically disqualify you from getting a green card. In many cases, you simply need to complete a course of treatment before your application can proceed. We will guide you through the next steps if treatment is required.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article and any accompanying videos is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider at Kingsway Medical Center with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or diet changes.