The Same Exam, With Age-Appropriate Considerations

Seniors applying for a green card complete the same Form I-693 immigration medical examination as younger applicants. The examination includes a physical exam, review of vaccination history, and laboratory testing. However, the specific vaccine requirements and clinical considerations are tailored to the needs of older patients.

Age-Specific Vaccine Requirements for Seniors

Seniors have different vaccine requirements than younger applicants. Required vaccines for seniors typically include:

• Influenza — one dose annually during flu season
• Pneumococcal (PCV15/PCV20 and PPSV23) — for adults 65 and older
• Tdap — one dose if not previously received
• Shingles (zoster) — two-dose series for adults 50 and older
• COVID-19 — per current ACIP recommendations

Chronic Medical Conditions

Many seniors have chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease. These conditions are generally not grounds of inadmissibility. Bring documentation of all current medical conditions and medications to your appointment.

Our civil surgeon will evaluate your overall health and document relevant findings appropriately on Form I-693. Having thorough documentation of your medical history helps ensure an accurate and complete examination.

Accessibility and Comfort

Our Costa Mesa clinic is accessible and accommodating for seniors, including patients with mobility limitations. If you have specific accessibility needs or require assistance during your appointment, please inform our staff when scheduling. Our goal is to make the immigration medical exam as comfortable and stress-free as possible for every patient.