Documentation Checklist for Attorney-Referred Clients

One of the most important things immigration attorneys can do to help their clients prepare for the immigration medical examination is to ensure they arrive with complete documentation. Clients who come prepared have faster, smoother appointments and are far less likely to need follow-up visits.

The following checklist covers the essential documents every client should bring to their immigration medical examination.

Required and Recommended Documents

Advise your clients to bring all of the following to their appointment.

• Valid government-issued photo ID (passport is preferred; driver's license or state ID is acceptable)
• All available vaccination records, including records from foreign countries
• Any relevant medical records, particularly for chronic conditions
• USCIS receipt notice for the I-485 (Adjustment of Status) application
• Payment for the examination fee (cash, credit card, or debit card)

Why Vaccination Records Are Critical

Vaccination records are the single most important document clients can bring to their immigration medical examination. USCIS requires documentation of all required vaccinations, and missing vaccination records can result in the need for additional vaccines, titer testing, or a follow-up appointment.

Advise clients to gather all vaccination records well in advance of their appointment, including records from their country of origin. Foreign vaccination records are accepted and can significantly reduce the number of vaccines needed.

What Happens If a Client Arrives Without Documents

If a client arrives without complete documentation, the examination can still proceed, but there may be additional steps required. Missing vaccination records may result in additional vaccines being administered or titer testing being ordered. Missing identification may prevent the examination from proceeding. Encourage clients to gather all documents before their appointment.

Special Considerations for Certain Clients

Some clients may have additional documentation needs.

• Clients with chronic medical conditions should bring a complete list of current medications
• Clients with prior TB exposure or treatment should bring relevant medical records
• Clients who have previously had a positive TB test should bring documentation
• Clients with prior immigration medical examinations should bring any prior Form I-693 if available