Hepatitis A Vaccine Requirement for Immigration

The hepatitis A vaccine protects against hepatitis A virus (HAV), a liver infection spread through contaminated food, water, and close contact with infected individuals. USCIS requires hepatitis A vaccination for immigration applicants who meet the age and risk criteria established by ACIP. The requirement is not universal — it applies to specific age groups and individuals with certain risk factors.

Age-Based Requirements

ACIP recommends hepatitis A vaccination for all children at age 1 (12-23 months), with catch-up vaccination for unvaccinated children and adolescents. For immigration purposes, applicants in these age groups who lack documentation of prior hepatitis A vaccination will be required to receive the vaccine. Adults who were not vaccinated as children may also be required to receive the vaccine depending on their risk factors.

Risk Factors That May Trigger the Requirement

Adults with certain risk factors are recommended by ACIP to receive hepatitis A vaccination. For immigration purposes, these risk factors may trigger the vaccination requirement:

• Travel to or from countries with high or intermediate hepatitis A endemicity
• Chronic liver disease (including hepatitis B or C)
• Clotting factor disorders
• Men who have sex with men
• Persons who use injection or non-injection drugs
• Persons experiencing homelessness
• Persons working with hepatitis A virus in research settings

The Two-Dose Hepatitis A Series

The hepatitis A vaccine is administered as a two-dose series. The second dose is given 6 to 18 months after the first dose. Both doses are required to complete the series and provide long-term protection. If you have received only one dose, you will need to complete the second dose. You do not need to restart the series regardless of how much time has passed since the first dose.

Combination Hepatitis A/B Vaccine

A combination hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccine (Twinrix) is available for adults aged 18 and older. This vaccine can satisfy both the hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccination requirements with a three-dose series. If you need both hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines, the combination vaccine may be a convenient option. Our civil surgeon will advise you on whether this is appropriate for your situation.