What Happens If USCIS Requests Additional Information About My Medical Exam?
What Happens If USCIS Requests Additional Information About My Medical Exam?
Quick Answer
If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) or Request for Additional Evidence related to your Form I-693, you must respond within the timeframe specified in the RFE notice. Common reasons include missing vaccination documentation, incomplete forms, or requests for additional medical evaluation.
Understanding the RFE Process
A Request for Evidence (RFE) is a formal notice from USCIS indicating that your application is missing information or documentation needed to make a decision. When an RFE relates to Form I-693, it means USCIS has identified a deficiency in your medical examination documentation. Receiving an RFE does not mean your application is denied — it is an opportunity to provide the missing information. However, you must respond completely and on time.
Common Reasons for an RFE Related to Form I-693
The most common reasons USCIS issues an RFE related to Form I-693 include: missing or incomplete vaccination records, a form that was not properly signed or sealed by the civil surgeon, an expired Form I-693, a civil surgeon who was not designated by USCIS at the time of the examination, missing tuberculosis (TB) test results, or a need for additional evaluation of a medical condition identified during the examination. Each of these issues requires a specific response.
How to Respond to an RFE
When you receive an RFE, read it carefully to understand exactly what USCIS is requesting. The RFE will specify a response deadline — typically 87 days from the date of the notice. Work with your immigration attorney to prepare a complete and timely response. If the RFE requires a new or updated medical examination, contact our office immediately to schedule an appointment. Do not wait until the last minute, as scheduling and completing a new examination takes time.
What If the RFE Requires a New Medical Examination?
If USCIS requests a new or updated Form I-693 as part of an RFE, you must schedule a new immigration medical examination with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. The new examination will be a complete examination — not just an update to the previous one. The cost of the new examination is your responsibility. At ImmigrationMedicalExams.com, we can often accommodate urgent appointments for applicants responding to RFEs.
Preventing RFEs Before They Happen
The best way to avoid an RFE related to Form I-693 is to ensure your examination is complete and accurate from the start. This means bringing all required vaccination records to your appointment, following up on any recommended additional testing, and submitting your Form I-693 to USCIS promptly after your examination. Our office reviews every form carefully before sealing it to minimize the risk of errors that could trigger an RFE.
Frequently Asked Questions
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