Why Vaccination Records Matter for Immigration

USCIS requires documentation of prior vaccination or demonstrated immunity for all age-appropriate vaccines recommended by ACIP. Without records, the civil surgeon cannot verify your vaccination history and must treat you as unvaccinated for immigration purposes. This does not mean you will be denied — it simply means you will need to take additional steps to satisfy the requirement.

Option 1: Obtain Replacement Records

Your first step should be to attempt to obtain replacement vaccination records. In the United States, your primary care physician, pediatrician, or previous healthcare provider may have records on file. Many states also maintain immunization registries that can be accessed by your provider.

If you were vaccinated in another country, contact your former healthcare provider, local health clinic, or the national health ministry of your country of origin. Some countries maintain centralized immunization records. School health records may also document childhood vaccinations.

Option 2: Titer Blood Testing

For certain vaccines, a titer blood test can demonstrate that you have immunity to a disease, even without vaccination records. Titer testing is commonly available for measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, and hepatitis B. If your titer results show adequate immunity, the civil surgeon can document this on Form I-693 and the vaccination requirement is satisfied. Not all vaccines have accepted titer alternatives under USCIS requirements.

Option 3: Re-Vaccination

If you cannot obtain replacement records and titer testing is not available or does not demonstrate immunity, the civil surgeon will administer the missing vaccines. Receiving vaccines you may have already had is generally safe and does not cause harm. For vaccines that require multiple doses, you may need to schedule follow-up appointments. Our office will work with you to complete your vaccination series as efficiently as possible.

Planning Ahead to Avoid Delays

If you know your vaccination records are incomplete or missing, we strongly recommend contacting our office before your immigration medical exam. We can advise you on which records to seek, whether titer testing is appropriate for your situation, and how to plan for any vaccines you may need. Arriving at your appointment with as complete a vaccination history as possible will minimize delays in completing your Form I-693.