Form I-693 signed on or after November 1, 2023 is generally valid only while the application with which it was submitted remains pending. Under USCIS's June 11, 2025 policy, that form is no longer valid after the application is denied or withdrawn. The former 60-day civil surgeon signature requirement was permanently removed in 2023; do not use it as a current filing deadline.
- Current I-693 validity depends on the signature date and the application with which the form was submitted.
- Forms signed on or after November 1, 2023 are generally valid while the associated application remains pending.
- A denied or withdrawn application requires a newly completed I-693 for a future application that needs medical documentation.
- The former 60-day civil surgeon signature rule is no longer in effect.
How long is Form I-693 valid in 2026?
USCIS distinguishes medical forms by the civil surgeon's signature date. Its current policy is not a universal two-year expiration rule for every applicant.
| Signature date or situation | General USCIS policy | Your next step |
|---|---|---|
| Signed on or after November 1, 2023; associated application pending | Generally valid while that application remains pending | Keep your copy and follow any USCIS request |
| Associated application denied or withdrawn | The form is no longer valid for a future application | Obtain a newly completed form when the new application requires it |
| Signed before November 1, 2023 | Generally valid for two years from signature under the applicable earlier policy | Review the signature date and your USCIS instructions with your attorney |
| Application rejected and returned by the lockbox | Rejection is not the same as denial | Check USCIS's specific returned-packet instructions before replacing or resubmitting documents |
An officer can still request updated medical evidence when warranted. A pending application does not override a request from USCIS or establish that every medical finding remains current.
Why a 60-day mailing deadline is outdated
USCIS permanently removed the former 60-day signature requirement on March 31, 2023. You should not arrange a new examination solely because more than 60 days passed between the civil surgeon's signature and submission.
The signature date remains important because it identifies the applicable validity policy. It does not restart a 60-day clock. For your 2026 filing, check the current USCIS instructions rather than relying on an old checklist or an earlier patient's filing experience.
Can I reuse a form after a denial or withdrawal?
For a Form I-693 signed on or after November 1, 2023 that was submitted with an application later denied or withdrawn, USCIS's June 11, 2025 policy requires a newly completed Form I-693 for a future application that requires medical documentation.
Do not assume that a photocopy or a replacement envelope changes the validity of the medical evidence. Ask your immigration attorney whether your next step is a new application, a response on a still-pending case, or another procedure.
To prepare for that discussion:
- Find the civil surgeon's signature date on your personal copy.
- Identify the application with which the form was submitted.
- Confirm whether the application is pending, denied, withdrawn or rejected.
- Bring any USCIS notice requesting new or corrected documentation.
- Do not open a packet intended for mail filing merely to check a date; request a separate copy.
A returned application is different from a denied application
USCIS's current Form I-693 page includes special instructions when the lockbox rejects a package and returns the civil surgeon's envelope opened. In that situation, the instructions permit resubmission of the original opened Form I-693 and supporting documents in the original envelope with a copy of the rejection notice.
That specific exception does not mean applicants can routinely open medical envelopes for mail filing. It also does not make a denied application the same as a rejected package. Follow the instruction matching your notice.
Submit medical documentation with your application when required
For a new Form I-485 that requires Form I-693 or a partial form, USCIS generally requires submitting the medical documentation with the application. Omitting it can cause rejection. Certain applicants with qualifying overseas examinations have partial-form requirements or other exceptions; confirm your route before booking an unnecessary full examination.
For mailed applications, keep the civil surgeon's original envelope sealed. For eligible online Form I-485 filing, the current USCIS instructions direct applicants to open the envelope and upload the completed form. Retain the original form and envelope until a final decision. The sealed I-693 packet guide explains these different routes.
Arrange a new examination only when needed
If a new Form I-693 is required, bring your prior form copy, vaccination records, relevant medical records and USCIS notice. Your civil surgeon determines the required examination, testing and vaccination review; do not assume all prior findings can be carried forward or that every test must automatically be repeated.
ImmigrationMedicalExams.com is an immigration-exam-only clinic at 2900 Bristol St., Building C, Suite C207, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Standard completion is three business days, with an optional two-business-day expedited service when scheduling, laboratory results, vaccination requirements and documentation permit.
A same-day appointment starts the process; it does not guarantee that the completed form will be ready that day. Tell the clinic about your deadline and any missing records before booking.
FAQ
Is every I-693 valid for two years in 2026?
No. Forms signed on or after November 1, 2023 are generally valid while the associated application remains pending. The earlier two-year policy generally applies to forms signed before that date.
Is there still a 60-day signature deadline?
No. USCIS permanently removed that requirement on March 31, 2023. Do not obtain a new exam solely because more than 60 days have passed since signature.
Can I reuse my medical form after my application is denied?
A form signed on or after November 1, 2023 and submitted with an application that is denied or withdrawn is no longer valid for a future application. USCIS requires a newly completed form when the new application needs medical documentation.
Does a pending case guarantee USCIS will not request another exam?
No. USCIS can request updated medical evidence when warranted. Follow the notice and discuss case-specific filing questions with your attorney.
Is a lockbox rejection the same as a denial?
No. USCIS has specific resubmission instructions for packages rejected and returned with the medical envelope opened. Review your rejection notice and current instructions before replacing or resubmitting evidence.
Do I automatically need all new vaccinations and tests?
Do not decide this from the age of your form alone. Bring prior records so the civil surgeon can apply the current medical and documentation requirements to your examination.
One last thing
Before paying for another examination, distinguish the age of the form from the status of the application. Signature date, application status and the actual USCIS request belong in the same review. Your attorney handles the filing decision; the civil surgeon handles medical requirements.
Arrange your I-693 examination
Contact the Costa Mesa clinic with your records and examination requirements.
Sources checked November 4, 2026
- USCIS update on I-693 validity.
- USCIS medical documentation policy.
- USCIS Form I-693 filing instructions.
This general information does not replace individualized medical or legal advice.