Immigration Medical Exam
Laboratory Tests Explained
Every USCIS-required lab test — syphilis, gonorrhea, TB blood testing, titer testing, and more — explained in plain language. All testing performed on-site, included in our flat fee.
Required Laboratory Tests
USCIS mandates a standard laboratory panel for all immigration medical exam applicants. Here is what is required and who needs each test.
Syphilis (RPR)
Required: Age 15+Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) screening test. Reactive results require confirmatory testing (FTA-ABS or TP-PA). Documented in Part 4 of Form I-693.
Gonorrhea (NAAT)
Required: All applicantsNucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) — the most sensitive method for gonorrhea detection. Positive results require treatment before I-693 can be completed.
TB (QuantiFERON-TB Gold)
Required: All applicantsInterferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) — preferred over the tuberculin skin test. A single blood draw; no return visit needed. Positive results require chest X-ray evaluation.
Deep-Dive Lab Guides
Comprehensive articles covering every aspect of immigration laboratory testing — written by our civil surgeon team.
Complete Guide to Immigration Lab Tests
Every USCIS-required laboratory test explained — who needs each test, what the results mean, and how they are documented on Form I-693.
Syphilis RPR Testing for Immigration
In-depth explanation of the RPR syphilis screening test, reactive vs. non-reactive results, confirmatory testing, and what a positive result means for your case.
Gonorrhea NAAT Testing for Immigration
How gonorrhea NAAT testing works, who is required to be tested, turnaround times, and how results are handled on Form I-693.
QuantiFERON-TB Gold Test for Immigration
The preferred IGRA blood test for TB screening — how it works, why it is preferred over the skin test, indeterminate results, and what happens if you test positive.
Titer Testing for Immigration Vaccines
When titer tests replace vaccines, which titers USCIS accepts, how to interpret results, and what to do if titers are insufficient.
What Happens With Abnormal Lab Results
Step-by-step guide to what happens when a lab result comes back abnormal — confirmatory testing, treatment requirements, and how findings are documented on Form I-693.
All Lab Tests Performed On-Site
No separate lab visits. No extra appointments. All USCIS-required testing is done at our Costa Mesa clinic on the day of your exam — included in the flat fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration medical exam laboratory testing.