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Many people who come to the United States on a visa will eventually want to apply for citizenship. The process of becoming a naturalized United States citizen is long and complicated, but it all starts with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services immigration medical exam. Here’s what you need to know about this important exam.
What is the USCIS Immigration Medical Exam?
The USCIS immigration medical exam is required for all immigrants who wish to apply for U.S. citizenship. The exam must be conducted by a panel physician when outside the United Stated or a USCIS-approved civil surgeon for applicants residing in the country, and it must be completed within six months of your citizenship application date. During the exam, the civil surgeon will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination. They will also test for communicable diseases and verify that you are up-to-date on all required vaccinations.
The USCIS uses the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention based vaccination guidelines for immigrants. The civil surgeon has to follow the technical instructions laid down by the Department of Homeland Security. Those are the same guidelines that the panel physician has to follow in the US Embassy or consulates in other countries. The Department of State provides immigration visas and other immigration services in foreign countries.
Upon completion of your exam, an I-693 form will be sent to the USCIS which checks the form to ensure it was signed by a certified immigration doctor. If not, the form will be sent back and you will need to find a certified doctor to administer the exam properly. If there are any errors on the I-693 form, your application will be rejected and sometimes you can lose your priority date or your position in the queue for naturalization. This can push away plans you might have to go back and visit your family in your home country.
What Does the Exam entail?
The specifics of the USCIS medical examination will vary depending on your age and health history, but there are some general things that you can expect. First, you will be asked questions about your medical history, including any communicable diseases that you have had in the past. You will also be asked questions about your vaccination history so that the civil surgeon can verify that you are up-to-date on all required vaccinations.
After answering these questions, you will undergo a physical examination. This will include taking your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature; listening to your heart and lungs; and checking your vision and hearing. If you have any physical conditions that need to be addressed, the civil surgeon may order additional tests or refer you to a specialist.
Finally, the civil surgeon will survey your vaccinations to make sure that you are up-to-date on all required vaccinations. If you are not, they will provide you with a list of recommended vaccinations.
The completed i-693 is provided in a sealed envelope with security tape. The envelope has to be taken to your interview with the immigration officer.
Trust Nao Medical for your immigration medical exam
The USCIS immigration medical exam serves as an important safeguard against public health threats, helping to ensure that all immigrants are able to enjoy long, healthy lives in the United States. So if you’re looking for a trusted provider of immigration medical services, look no further than Nao Medical. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing you with the personalized attention and support that you need during this important process. Visit your nearest Nao Medical urgent care location today to start your journey to a successful immigration medical exam!
