How Long Is Form I-693 Valid After the Immigration Medical Exam?
Quick Answer
Form I-693 validity depends on applicable USCIS policy, the civil surgeon's signature date, and the applicant's filing circumstances. USCIS policy has changed over time. If your form's validity period ends before USCIS adjudicates your case, you may need a new immigration medical examination. Consult your immigration attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Current Validity Rule (Forms Signed On or After November 1, 2023)
Under USCIS Policy Manual Volume 8, Part B, Chapter 4 (effective June 11, 2025), a Form I-693 signed by the civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023 is generally valid only for the specific immigration benefit application it was submitted with, for as long as that application remains pending. The form does not automatically expire two years after the civil surgeon's signature.
If that application is withdrawn or denied, the form is no longer valid — a newly completed and signed Form I-693 is required with any future application. USCIS retains discretion to request a new or updated Form I-693 at any time if it believes the applicant's medical condition may have changed.
Forms Signed Before November 1, 2023
Forms signed before November 1, 2023 retain evidentiary value for 2 years from the civil surgeon's signature date under the prior policy. The civil surgeon's signature date appears on Form I-693. If you requested a copy of the form before it was sealed, you can find the signature date on that copy.
For example, if the civil surgeon signed your form on October 15, 2023 (before the November 1, 2023 cutoff), the form retains evidentiary value until October 15, 2025. Consult your immigration attorney to confirm which rules apply to your specific form.
When a New Examination Is Required
For forms signed on or after November 1, 2023, a new examination is required if: (1) the application the form was submitted with is denied or withdrawn, or (2) USCIS exercises its discretion to request a new or updated Form I-693 because it believes the applicant's medical condition may have changed.
If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) asking for a new examination, you must schedule a new appointment with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and submit a new sealed Form I-693 within the RFE deadline.
Cases With Long Processing Times
Some immigration cases take longer than two years to process — particularly cases involving backlogs, complex issues, or lengthy USCIS processing times. If your case is in a category with long processing times, you may need to plan for the possibility of a re-examination.
Attorneys and applicants with long-pending cases should track the civil surgeon's signature date and plan for a re-examination if the case is approaching the two-year mark without adjudication.
Timing Your Exam Strategically
If you know your case will take a long time to process, consider the timing of your immigration medical exam carefully. Completing the exam too early — before your case is close to adjudication — risks expiration. Completing it too late — after your USCIS interview is scheduled — may cause delays.
For most applicants, completing the exam when the Form I-485 is filed (or shortly before) is appropriate. Your immigration attorney can advise on the best timing for your specific case.
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. USCIS and CDC requirements are subject to change. Applicants should consult a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and, when appropriate, a qualified immigration attorney regarding their individual circumstances.
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