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.
The Two-Year Validity Rule
USCIS requires that Form I-693 be valid at the time it is used to adjudicate your case. The form is valid for two years from the date of the civil surgeon's signature — which appears on the form itself.
This means that if USCIS has not adjudicated your case within two years of the civil surgeon's signature date, your Form I-693 will expire and you will need a new immigration medical examination.
How to Find Your Expiration Date
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. Your expiration date is exactly two years from that date.
For example, if the civil surgeon signed your form on August 2, 2026, your Form I-693 expires on August 2, 2028. USCIS must receive and use the form before that date.
What Happens If Your Form Expires
If your Form I-693 expires before USCIS adjudicates your case, you will need to undergo a new immigration medical examination. The new examination must be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon, and a new sealed Form I-693 must be submitted to USCIS.
USCIS will not adjudicate your case using an expired Form I-693. If your form is approaching expiration and your case has not been adjudicated, contact your immigration attorney to discuss whether a new examination is needed.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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