Understanding the Purpose of the Exam

The immigration medical examination is not designed to be a pass/fail test. Its purpose is to identify whether an applicant has any health conditions that constitute grounds of inadmissibility under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The civil surgeon documents findings on Form I-693 and submits it to USCIS — USCIS then makes the final determination about admissibility.

Most applicants complete the immigration medical exam without any issues. The vast majority of findings — including missing vaccines, minor medical conditions, and treatable infections — are easily resolved and do not affect the outcome of a green card application.

What Conditions Can Affect Your Case?

The INA identifies several categories of health-related grounds of inadmissibility. These are the conditions that, if found during the immigration medical exam, may affect your immigration case.

• Communicable diseases of public health significance (e.g., active tuberculosis, syphilis)
• Failure to present documentation of required vaccinations
• Physical or mental disorders with associated harmful behavior
• Drug abuse or addiction

Communicable Diseases

Communicable diseases of public health significance are the most serious category of health-related inadmissibility. Currently, the conditions designated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as communicable diseases of public health significance include active tuberculosis, infectious syphilis, gonorrhea, Hansen's disease (leprosy), and others.

Importantly, many of these conditions are treatable. For example, active tuberculosis can be treated, and once treatment is complete and the disease is no longer communicable, the applicant may be found admissible. The civil surgeon will document the finding and provide guidance on next steps.

Vaccination Requirements

Failure to have required vaccinations is one of the most common findings at the immigration medical exam — and one of the most easily resolved. If you are missing required vaccines, they can typically be administered at our clinic during your appointment. In some cases, a waiver may be available for medical contraindications or religious objections. Our civil surgeons will work with you to ensure your vaccination record is complete.

What Happens If a Finding Is Made?

If the civil surgeon identifies a condition that may constitute a ground of inadmissibility, they are required to document it on Form I-693. USCIS will then review the finding and determine whether it affects your case. In many cases, USCIS will request additional documentation, a follow-up exam, or evidence of treatment before making a final decision.

A finding on Form I-693 does not automatically mean your green card application will be denied. Many applicants with medical findings successfully obtain their green cards after providing additional documentation or completing treatment. Consult your immigration attorney if you have concerns about a specific medical condition.