What Is the Sealed Envelope Rule for Form I-693?
What Is the Sealed Envelope Rule for Form I-693?
Quick Answer
The sealed envelope rule requires that the completed Form I-693 be placed in an envelope by the civil surgeon, sealed, and signed across the seal before being given to the applicant. The applicant must deliver this sealed envelope to USCIS unopened. Breaking the seal invalidates the form entirely.
The Purpose of the Sealed Envelope Rule
The sealed envelope rule exists to protect the integrity of the immigration medical examination process. By requiring the civil surgeon to seal and sign across the envelope, USCIS ensures that the medical information submitted is exactly what the civil surgeon documented — unaltered by the applicant, their attorney, or any other party. This chain of custody requirement is a fundamental safeguard against fraud in the immigration system.
How the Civil Surgeon Seals the Envelope
After completing Form I-693 and all required documentation, the civil surgeon places the completed form inside a standard envelope. The civil surgeon then seals the envelope and signs their name across the seal — typically with their signature spanning the flap of the envelope. This signature across the seal serves as a tamper-evident indicator. If the envelope is opened, the signature will be broken or disturbed, making tampering immediately apparent.
The Applicant's Responsibility
Once the civil surgeon hands the sealed envelope to the applicant, the applicant is responsible for keeping it sealed and delivering it to USCIS. The applicant must not open the envelope, allow anyone else to open it, or attempt to reseal it if it is accidentally opened. The applicant should store the sealed envelope safely and submit it to USCIS as promptly as possible. If the envelope is damaged or the seal is broken, the applicant must contact the civil surgeon's office immediately.
What Happens When the Seal Is Broken
If USCIS receives a Form I-693 envelope with a broken or tampered seal, they will reject the form entirely. The applicant will be required to undergo a completely new immigration medical examination at their own expense. There are no exceptions to this rule — USCIS will not accept a resealed envelope or an explanation for why the seal was broken. The integrity of the sealed envelope is non-negotiable.
Special Situations: Attorneys and Third Parties
Even if you give the sealed envelope to your immigration attorney for safekeeping or submission, the attorney must not open it. The attorney submits the sealed envelope to USCIS on your behalf without opening it. Similarly, if you are bringing the sealed envelope to a USCIS interview, you hand it directly to the USCIS officer in its sealed condition. No one other than USCIS is authorized to open the sealed Form I-693 envelope.
Frequently Asked Questions
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