Can I use my copy of Form I-693 to submit to USCIS?

No. Your personal copy of Form I-693 cannot be submitted to USCIS. USCIS requires the original sealed envelope signed by the civil surgeon. A photocopy or scan of the form is not acceptable.

What if I lost my copy of Form I-693?

If you lost your personal copy of Form I-693, contact the civil surgeon's office that performed your examination. They can provide you with another copy from their records. Losing your personal copy does not affect the validity of the original sealed form that was submitted to USCIS.

How long does the civil surgeon keep records of my examination?

Medical record retention requirements vary by state. In California, medical records must generally be retained for a minimum of 7 years. At ImmigrationMedicalExams.com, we retain examination records in accordance with applicable state and federal requirements.

Can my immigration attorney get a copy of my Form I-693 directly from the civil surgeon?

Yes, with your written authorization. If you provide written consent, the civil surgeon can release a copy of your Form I-693 to your immigration attorney. Contact our office to discuss the authorization process.

Is my copy of Form I-693 the same as the original?

Your copy contains the same information as the original form submitted to USCIS. However, it is not a certified copy and cannot be used in place of the original sealed form for USCIS purposes. It is for your personal reference only.

Form I-6934 min read readUpdated January 2025

Can I Get a Copy of My Form I-693?

Quick Answer

Yes. You are entitled to a copy of your completed Form I-693 for your personal records. At ImmigrationMedicalExams.com, we provide you with a copy of your completed form before sealing the original in the envelope for USCIS submission. Keep your copy in a safe place.

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Your Right to a Copy of Form I-693

As a patient, you have the right to a copy of your medical records, including your completed Form I-693. The civil surgeon should provide you with a copy of the completed form before sealing the original in the envelope for USCIS. This copy is for your personal records and does not replace the original sealed form that must be submitted to USCIS. Keep your copy in a safe place — it can be valuable if questions arise about your medical examination.

Why You Should Keep a Copy

Having a copy of your Form I-693 allows you to verify the accuracy of the information submitted to USCIS, track the validity period of your form, provide documentation to your immigration attorney, and reference your vaccination records for future medical needs. If USCIS issues an RFE related to your medical examination, having a copy of your Form I-693 will help you and your attorney understand what was submitted and identify any potential issues.

How to Request a Copy From Our Office

At ImmigrationMedicalExams.com, we routinely provide patients with a copy of their completed Form I-693 at the time of their examination. If you did not receive a copy at your appointment, or if you need an additional copy, contact our office. We maintain records of all examinations we perform and can provide you with a copy upon request. Please note that we cannot provide a new sealed envelope — only a copy of the completed form for your personal records.

Requesting Records From USCIS

If you need a copy of your Form I-693 after it has been submitted to USCIS, you can request your immigration records through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. USCIS has an online FOIA request system. Processing times for FOIA requests can vary, so plan accordingly if you need your records for a specific purpose. Your immigration attorney can assist you with the FOIA request process.

Protecting Your Medical Privacy

Your Form I-693 contains sensitive medical information. Keep your copy in a secure location and share it only with individuals who have a legitimate need to see it — such as your immigration attorney. Do not share your medical records on social media or in any public forum. If you believe your medical privacy has been violated, consult an attorney.

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