Varicella Vaccine Requirement for Immigration

The varicella vaccine — which protects against chickenpox — is required for immigration applicants who lack documentation of two doses of varicella vaccine, a healthcare provider-confirmed history of chickenpox disease, or laboratory evidence of immunity. Varicella is a highly contagious disease, and USCIS follows ACIP recommendations requiring vaccination for individuals who are not immune.

Two-Dose Vaccine Requirement

ACIP recommends two doses of varicella vaccine for most individuals. For immigration purposes, USCIS requires documentation of two doses. If you have records showing only one dose, you will need to receive a second dose. The second dose can be administered at least three months after the first dose for children under 13, or at least four weeks after the first dose for individuals 13 and older.

If you have no varicella vaccination records, you will need either titer testing to demonstrate immunity or two doses of varicella vaccine.

Prior Chickenpox Disease as Evidence of Immunity

A reliable history of prior chickenpox disease — meaning a healthcare provider-confirmed diagnosis — may be accepted as evidence of immunity in some circumstances. However, a self-reported history without provider confirmation is generally not sufficient. If you believe you had chickenpox as a child but have no provider documentation, titer testing is the most reliable way to confirm immunity.

Titer Testing for Varicella

A varicella IgG antibody titer test can demonstrate immunity to chickenpox. If your titer result shows adequate immunity, the vaccination requirement is satisfied without re-vaccination. Titer testing is a reasonable option for individuals who believe they are immune but lack documentation. Our office can arrange titer testing as part of your immigration medical examination.

Varicella Vaccine Safety and Contraindications

The varicella vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine and is contraindicated for individuals who are pregnant, severely immunocompromised, or have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior varicella dose or vaccine component. If you have any of these conditions, inform the civil surgeon before your appointment. Side effects are generally mild and may include soreness at the injection site and a mild rash.