What if my previous Form I-693 was never submitted to USCIS?

If your previous Form I-693 was never submitted to USCIS and is still within its 2-year validity period, you may be able to use it for your new application. Consult your immigration attorney to confirm whether this is appropriate for your specific situation.

Do I need a new exam if I am refiling due to a USCIS error?

If your application was denied due to a USCIS error and you are refiling, you may be able to use your original Form I-693 if it is still valid. Consult your immigration attorney, who can advise on the best approach and whether to request that USCIS reopen your case rather than requiring a completely new filing.

How soon after a denial can I refile my green card application?

There is generally no mandatory waiting period before refiling a Form I-485 after a denial, unless the denial was based on a specific bar to refiling. Consult your immigration attorney to understand the implications of your denial and the appropriate timing for refiling.

Will my vaccination records from the previous exam still be valid?

Your vaccination records from a previous examination may still be valid for a new examination, depending on how much time has passed and whether any new vaccines are required. Bring your vaccination records and any documentation from your previous examination to your new appointment.

Can I use the same civil surgeon for my new examination?

Yes. You can use the same USCIS-designated civil surgeon for your new examination. If you were satisfied with your previous examination at ImmigrationMedicalExams.com, we encourage you to return for your new examination. We will have your previous records on file, which can help streamline the process.

Form I-6935 min read readUpdated January 2025

Do I Need a New Form I-693 If I Refile My Green Card Application?

Quick Answer

In most cases, yes. If your previous green card application was denied, withdrawn, or abandoned and you are filing a new Form I-485, you will generally need a new immigration medical examination and a new Form I-693, particularly if your previous form has expired or if significant time has passed.

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Why a New Examination Is Usually Required When Refiling

When you refile a green card application, USCIS treats it as a new application. The original Form I-693 submitted with your previous application was consumed by that application — it cannot be retrieved and reused. Additionally, if significant time has passed since your original examination, your medical status may have changed, and USCIS requires current medical information. For these reasons, a new immigration medical examination and a new Form I-693 are typically required when refiling.

The Role of the 2-Year Validity Period

Even if you still have a copy of your original Form I-693, it can only be used for a new application if it is still within its 2-year validity period and has not been submitted to USCIS. If your original Form I-693 was submitted with your previous application, it is no longer available for reuse. If you have an unsubmitted Form I-693 that is still within its validity period, consult your immigration attorney to determine whether it can be used for your new application.

Situations Where a New Exam May Not Be Required

In limited circumstances, you may not need a completely new examination when refiling. For example, if your previous application was denied due to a non-medical reason and your Form I-693 was never submitted to USCIS and is still within its validity period, you may be able to use the original form. However, this is an exception rather than the rule. Always consult your immigration attorney to determine whether a new examination is required for your specific situation.

Planning Your New Examination When Refiling

If you are planning to refile your green card application, schedule your new immigration medical examination as close to your new filing date as possible. This ensures that your Form I-693 is current and maximizes the validity period available for USCIS adjudication. At ImmigrationMedicalExams.com, we can often accommodate appointments within a few days. Contact our office to discuss your timeline and schedule your examination.

Cost Considerations for a Second Examination

A second immigration medical examination costs the same as the first. While this is an additional expense, it is a necessary part of refiling your green card application. At ImmigrationMedicalExams.com, we strive to make the examination process as efficient and affordable as possible. If you have recent vaccination records and medical history from your previous examination, bring them to your new appointment — this can help streamline the process.

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