What Is the MMR Vaccine?
MMR is a combination vaccine that protects against three viral diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). All three diseases can cause serious complications — measles can lead to pneumonia and encephalitis, mumps can cause deafness and meningitis, and rubella can cause severe birth defects if contracted during pregnancy.
The MMR vaccine is one of the most effective vaccines available, with two doses providing approximately 97% protection against measles and 88% protection against mumps. Because of its high efficacy and the severity of these diseases, USCIS requires documentation of MMR vaccination for nearly all immigration applicants.
Measles
Pneumonia, encephalitis, death
Mumps
Deafness, meningitis, orchitis
Rubella
Severe birth defects in pregnancy
USCIS MMR Requirements
USCIS requires documentation of two doses of MMR vaccine for applicants aged 12 months and older. The specific requirement varies by age group:
Ages 12 months–3 years
1 dose required
2 doses if available
Ages 4 years and older
2 doses required
At least 28 days apart
Born before 1957
May qualify for presumptive immunity
See section below
Important: Two MMR doses are required for most adult immigration applicants. If you only have records of one dose, you will need a second dose at your immigration medical exam.
Presumptive Immunity — Born Before 1957
Applicants born before January 1, 1957 may be considered to have presumptive evidence of immunity to measles and mumps. Because these diseases were so widespread before the vaccine era, most people born before 1957 were naturally infected and developed lasting immunity.
However, there is an important exception: presumptive immunity applies to measles and mumps only — not rubella. Women of childbearing potential born before 1957 should still receive MMR to ensure rubella immunity. The Civil Surgeon documents presumptive immunity on Form I-693.
Born Before 1957
- Presumptive immunity for measles
- Presumptive immunity for mumps
- Rubella still required for women of childbearing potential
- Civil Surgeon documents on Form I-693
Born 1957 or Later
- 2 MMR doses required
- Doses must be at least 28 days apart
- Documentation required for all three components
- Serology may substitute if records unavailable
Proving Prior Vaccination
Acceptable documentation of prior MMR vaccination includes official records from a variety of sources. The records must show the vaccine name (MMR or individual measles/mumps/rubella vaccines), the date(s) administered, and ideally the lot number.
Official vaccination records (yellow WHO card, shot records)
The international yellow vaccination booklet or any official shot record issued by a healthcare provider or government authority.
School immunization records
Schools maintain detailed immunization records. These are often more complete than personal records and are widely accepted.
Records from a prior healthcare provider
Records from any U.S. or international doctor, clinic, urgent care, or pharmacy that administered the vaccine.
Records from your country of origin
International vaccination records are accepted even if written in another language. Bring all records you have.
Tip: Bring every vaccination record you have — even records in another language. Our staff can help interpret foreign vaccination records.
Serologic Testing for Immunity
If you cannot locate your vaccination records, serologic (blood) testing can confirm immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella. A positive serology result showing immunity may substitute for vaccination documentation. If serology shows you are not immune, you will need to receive the MMR vaccine.
No Records Available
You cannot locate prior MMR vaccination records from any source.
Serology Test Ordered
The Civil Surgeon orders a blood test to check for measles, mumps, and rubella antibodies.
Results Determine Next Steps
Positive = immunity documented on I-693. Negative = MMR vaccine administered.
Note: Serologic testing adds time and cost to your appointment. Bringing vaccination records — even partial records — is always preferable to relying on serology.
Catch-Up Schedule
If you need catch-up MMR doses, here is how the process works:
First MMR dose administered at your immigration medical exam appointment.
USCIS requires a minimum 28-day interval between the first and second MMR doses.
Second MMR dose administered at a follow-up appointment. Form I-693 is then completed and sealed.
Plan ahead: If you need two MMR doses, plan for a follow-up appointment approximately 4 weeks after your exam. Our clinic will schedule this for you. Both doses are included in our all-inclusive flat fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Medical & Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. USCIS vaccination requirements, CDC immunization schedules, and immigration policies may change without notice. Always consult a USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon and a qualified immigration attorney for guidance specific to your individual case.