Do I need to file Form I-693 separately from Form I-485?

In most cases, you submit Form I-693 together with your Form I-485 in the same filing package. However, USCIS may also request Form I-693 separately at a later stage of your application. Follow the specific instructions provided by USCIS or your immigration attorney.

Can I file Form I-485 without Form I-693?

In some circumstances, USCIS allows applicants to file Form I-485 without Form I-693 and submit the medical examination separately. However, this is not always advisable. Consult your immigration attorney to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Is there a filing fee for Form I-693?

There is no separate USCIS filing fee for Form I-693. However, you will pay the civil surgeon directly for the immigration medical examination. The cost of the examination varies by provider. Contact our office for current pricing.

What happens to Form I-693 after USCIS receives it?

USCIS opens the sealed Form I-693 envelope during the adjudication of your I-485 application. The medical officer reviews the findings and determines whether you meet the health-related requirements for permanent residence. The form becomes part of your immigration file.

Do I need Form I-693 for all types of green card applications?

Form I-693 is required for most adjustment of status applications (Form I-485). However, there are some exceptions — for example, certain special immigrant categories may have different requirements. Consult your immigration attorney to confirm whether Form I-693 is required for your specific application.

Form I-6935 min read readUpdated January 2025

What Is the Difference Between Form I-693 and Form I-485?

Quick Answer

Form I-485 is the Application to Register Permanent Residence (green card application) filed with USCIS. Form I-693 is the immigration medical examination form completed by a civil surgeon and submitted as a supporting document with or after your I-485. They are two separate forms serving different purposes in the green card process.

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What Is Form I-485?

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is the primary application form used by individuals who are already in the United States and wish to obtain lawful permanent resident status (a green card). You file Form I-485 with USCIS along with supporting documents, filing fees, and evidence of your eligibility for permanent residence. The I-485 is a comprehensive application that covers your personal history, immigration history, and eligibility for adjustment of status.

What Is Form I-693?

Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is the immigration medical examination form completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. It documents the results of your immigration medical examination, including your physical examination findings, vaccination history, and results of required medical tests such as tuberculosis screening. Form I-693 is not filed by the applicant — it is completed by the civil surgeon and submitted to USCIS in a sealed envelope.

How the Two Forms Work Together

Form I-693 is a required supporting document for most Form I-485 applications. When you file your I-485, you typically include the sealed Form I-693 envelope in the same filing package. Alternatively, USCIS may request Form I-693 separately — for example, at the time of your adjustment of status interview. The two forms serve different purposes: I-485 establishes your eligibility for permanent residence, while I-693 establishes that you meet the health-related requirements for admission to the United States.

Key Differences Between the Two Forms

The key differences between Form I-485 and Form I-693 are: (1) Who completes them — you complete Form I-485, while a civil surgeon completes Form I-693; (2) What they cover — I-485 covers your immigration eligibility, while I-693 covers your medical examination results; (3) How they are submitted — I-485 is filed directly with USCIS, while I-693 is submitted in a sealed envelope; (4) Who can prepare them — anyone can prepare I-485 (with or without an attorney), but only a USCIS-designated civil surgeon can complete I-693.

Timing Considerations for Both Forms

The timing of your Form I-693 relative to your Form I-485 filing is important. You should schedule your immigration medical examination close to the time you plan to file your I-485, so that your Form I-693 is current and within its validity period. If you complete your medical examination too far in advance of your I-485 filing, your Form I-693 may expire before USCIS adjudicates your case. Consult your immigration attorney to coordinate the timing of your medical examination and I-485 filing.

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