{"id":1369,"date":"2026-04-18T14:59:59","date_gmt":"2026-04-18T14:59:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/?p=1369"},"modified":"2026-04-18T14:59:59","modified_gmt":"2026-04-18T14:59:59","slug":"immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Immigration Medical Exam (Form I-693) 2026: Civil Surgeon, Vaccines, and What to Expect"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Browse Content<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Immigration_Medical_Exam_Form_I-693_2026_Civil_Surgeon_Vaccines_and_What_to_Expect\" >Immigration Medical Exam (Form I-693) 2026: Civil Surgeon, Vaccines, and What to Expect<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Who_Needs_to_Complete_Form_I-693\" >Who Needs to Complete Form I-693?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Finding_a_USCIS_Civil_Surgeon\" >Finding a USCIS Civil Surgeon<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#What_the_Immigration_Medical_Exam_Includes\" >What the Immigration Medical Exam Includes<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Physical_Examination\" >Physical Examination<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Tuberculosis_TB_Testing\" >Tuberculosis (TB) Testing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Sexually_Transmitted_Disease_Screening\" >Sexually Transmitted Disease Screening<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Vaccination_Review_and_Administration\" >Vaccination Review and Administration<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#The_Sealed_Envelope_Critical_Rules\" >The Sealed Envelope: Critical Rules<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#I-693_Validity_Period\" >I-693 Validity Period<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#What_Happens_If_a_Medical_Condition_Is_Found\" >What Happens If a Medical Condition Is Found?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_Form_I-693_Immigration_Medical_Exam_2026\" >Frequently Asked Questions: Form I-693 Immigration Medical Exam 2026<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#How_much_does_the_immigration_medical_exam_cost_in_2026\" >How much does the immigration medical exam cost in 2026?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#How_long_is_Form_I-693_valid\" >How long is Form I-693 valid?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#Can_I_open_the_sealed_I-693_envelope_before_submitting_it_to_USCIS\" >Can I open the sealed I-693 envelope before submitting it to USCIS?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/immigration-medical-exam-i693-civil-surgeon-2026-guide\/#What_vaccines_are_required_for_the_immigration_medical_exam\" >What vaccines are required for the immigration medical exam?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<article itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Article\">\n<meta itemprop=\"datePublished\" content=\"2026-04-18\" \/><br \/>\n<meta itemprop=\"dateModified\" content=\"2026-04-18\" \/><br \/>\n<meta itemprop=\"author\" content=\"Atlas Legal Immigration\" \/><\/p>\n<h1 itemprop=\"headline\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Immigration_Medical_Exam_Form_I-693_2026_Civil_Surgeon_Vaccines_and_What_to_Expect\"><\/span>Immigration Medical Exam (Form I-693) 2026: Civil Surgeon, Vaccines, and What to Expect<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<div class=\"key-takeaways\" style=\"background:#f0f4ff;border-left:4px solid #1a56db;padding:18px 22px;margin:24px 0;border-radius:4px;\">\n<strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul style=\"margin:10px 0 0 0;padding-left:20px;\">\n<li>Form I-693 must be completed by a <strong>USCIS-designated civil surgeon<\/strong> \u2014 your personal doctor cannot do it<\/li>\n<li>The civil surgeon seals the completed I-693 in an envelope; <strong>do not open it<\/strong> before submitting to USCIS<\/li>\n<li>I-693 validity: <strong>2 years<\/strong> from the civil surgeon&#8217;s signature (if submitted to USCIS within 60 days of signing)<\/li>\n<li>Required vaccines include MMR, varicella, influenza, hepatitis B, tetanus, and others \u2014 <strong>no medical waivers<\/strong> unless CDC-approved contraindication<\/li>\n<li>TB testing (TST or IGRA) and HIV screening are mandatory<\/li>\n<li>Cost: typically <strong>$200-$500<\/strong> depending on civil surgeon and location \u2014 not covered by most insurance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<figure style=\"margin:28px 0;\">\n<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.pexels.com\/photos\/3184292\/pexels-photo-3184292.jpeg?auto=compress&#038;cs=tinysrgb&#038;w=1200&#038;h=630&#038;fit=crop\" alt=\"Civil surgeon conducting immigration medical exam Form I-693 for green card adjustment of status applicant\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" loading=\"eager\" style=\"width:100%;height:auto;border-radius:6px;\" itemprop=\"image\" \/><figcaption style=\"font-size:13px;color:#555;margin-top:6px;text-align:center;\">The I-693 immigration medical exam must be performed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon \u2014 not your regular physician.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Form I-693 (Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) is the USCIS form used to document the results of the required immigration medical examination for most adjustment of status applicants. According to USCIS, nearly all I-485 (Adjustment of Status) applicants must submit a completed Form I-693 as part of their green card application \u2014 and getting it right is critical because errors or missing vaccinations can delay your case by months.<\/p>\n<p>The I-693 is not a simple doctor&#8217;s note. It is a comprehensive medical and vaccination record conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon following strict CDC Technical Instructions. This 2026 guide explains who needs it, how to find a civil surgeon, what the exam includes, vaccination requirements, how to handle the sealed envelope, and what happens if a medical condition is discovered.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Needs_to_Complete_Form_I-693\"><\/span>Who Needs to Complete Form I-693?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The I-693 is required for most applicants filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). Specifically:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Most I-485 applicants<\/strong> between ages 2 and older<\/li>\n<li>Children under 2 only need the vaccination record portion, not the full physical<\/li>\n<li>Some applicants are exempt from the vaccination requirement but still need the physical exam (this applies in limited circumstances like confirmed medical contraindication)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You do NOT need to file I-693 if you are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Applying for a non-immigrant visa extension or change of status (I-693 is only for green card applicants)<\/li>\n<li>A returning lawful permanent resident (re-entry after travel does not require a new medical exam unless you have been outside the US for 1+ year)<\/li>\n<li>Applying for naturalization (citizenship applicants do not need I-693)<\/li>\n<li>Applying for an immigrant visa at a US Embassy abroad (you get a separate panel physician exam at the embassy \u2014 not I-693)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Finding_a_USCIS_Civil_Surgeon\"><\/span>Finding a USCIS Civil Surgeon<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Only a USCIS-designated civil surgeon can complete Form I-693. Your personal physician, family doctor, or urgent care clinic cannot perform the immigration medical exam even if they are otherwise fully licensed. USCIS maintains a searchable database of civil surgeons at uscis.gov\/civil-surgeons. You can search by ZIP code, city, or state.<\/p>\n<p>Important tips for choosing a civil surgeon:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Call ahead to confirm they are still active and accepting new patients \u2014 the USCIS database is not always up to date<\/li>\n<li>Ask about current pricing \u2014 costs range from $200 to $500 and are not covered by most health insurance plans<\/li>\n<li>Ask about wait times for appointments \u2014 some civil surgeons have waits of 2-4 weeks; schedule early<\/li>\n<li>Ask whether they have your vaccine records on file if you were previously their patient, or bring all prior vaccination documentation<\/li>\n<li>Confirm they are familiar with the current I-693 requirements and USCIS Technical Instructions update (significant changes were made effective November 2023)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_the_Immigration_Medical_Exam_Includes\"><\/span>What the Immigration Medical Exam Includes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The civil surgeon conducts a comprehensive evaluation divided into several components under CDC Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Physical_Examination\"><\/span>Physical Examination<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A general physical exam covering:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Height, weight, and vital signs<\/li>\n<li>Vision and hearing<\/li>\n<li>Cardiovascular and respiratory systems<\/li>\n<li>Abdominal examination<\/li>\n<li>Neurological screening<\/li>\n<li>Mental health screening (for substance abuse disorders and mental illness that may be relevant to inadmissibility)<\/li>\n<li>Physical findings that may indicate communicable diseases of public health significance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tuberculosis_TB_Testing\"><\/span>Tuberculosis (TB) Testing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>TB testing is mandatory for all applicants 2 years and older. The civil surgeon may use either:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tuberculin Skin Test (TST\/PPD), or<\/li>\n<li>Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA blood test \u2014 QuantiFERON or T-SPOT)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A positive TB test does not automatically bar you from getting a green card. If you test positive, the civil surgeon will order a chest X-ray. Latent TB (no symptoms, no active disease) is not a bar to adjustment \u2014 but active TB must be treated before the I-485 can be approved.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sexually_Transmitted_Disease_Screening\"><\/span>Sexually Transmitted Disease Screening<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>HIV testing is mandatory for all I-693 applicants ages 15 and older as of 2009 (HIV was removed from the inadmissibility list in 2010 \u2014 a positive HIV test no longer bars you from getting a green card). Gonorrhea syphilis screening is also required.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Vaccination_Review_and_Administration\"><\/span>Vaccination Review and Administration<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This is the most complex and often most costly part of the exam. The civil surgeon reviews your vaccination history and administers any missing vaccines. Required vaccines for I-693 in 2026 include:<\/p>\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;margin:16px 0;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#1a56db;color:#fff;\">\n<th style=\"padding:10px 14px;text-align:left;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Vaccine<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:10px 14px;text-align:left;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Age Group<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:10px 14px;text-align:left;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">1+ years<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">2 doses required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#f9f9f9;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Varicella (Chickenpox)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">1+ years<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">2 doses or documented history of disease<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Influenza (Flu)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">6 months+<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Annual; seasonal vaccine required during flu season<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#f9f9f9;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Hepatitis A<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">1+ years<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">2-dose series<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Hepatitis B<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Birth+<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">3-dose series<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#f9f9f9;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Tetanus\/Diphtheria\/Pertussis (Td\/Tdap)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">All ages<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Tdap required once; then Td booster every 10 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Meningococcal<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">11-18 years<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">May apply to certain age groups<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#f9f9f9;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Pneumococcal<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">65+ and high-risk<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Age-dependent<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">COVID-19<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">6 months+<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Added to required list October 2021; current CDC schedule applies<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>If you have documentation of prior vaccinations, bring it to the appointment. The civil surgeon can use prior records; only missing vaccines need to be administered. Vaccines administered by the civil surgeon add cost \u2014 budget accordingly if you need multiple vaccines.<\/p>\n<figure style=\"margin:28px 0;\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.pexels.com\/photos\/5668479\/pexels-photo-5668479.jpeg?auto=compress&#038;cs=tinysrgb&#038;w=1200&#038;h=630&#038;fit=crop\" alt=\"Immigration applicant receiving required vaccines from civil surgeon for Form I-693 immigration medical exam\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"width:100%;height:auto;border-radius:6px;\" \/><figcaption style=\"font-size:13px;color:#555;margin-top:6px;text-align:center;\">Bringing your complete vaccination records to the civil surgeon can save significant cost \u2014 only missing vaccines need to be administered.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Sealed_Envelope_Critical_Rules\"><\/span>The Sealed Envelope: Critical Rules<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After completing the exam, the civil surgeon completes Form I-693, signs and dates it, and seals it in an envelope with their signature across the seal. This sealed envelope must be submitted to USCIS unopened. USCIS will reject an I-693 that arrives in an unsealed envelope or shows evidence of having been opened.<\/p>\n<p>Do not open the envelope. Do not ask the civil surgeon to open it so you can review it. If you have concerns about what was written, discuss them before the civil surgeon seals the envelope.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"I-693_Validity_Period\"><\/span>I-693 Validity Period<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I-693 is valid for 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs and dates it, provided the I-693 was submitted to USCIS within 60 days of the civil surgeon&#8217;s signature. If you submit the I-693 more than 60 days after the civil surgeon signed it, the validity period starts from the date USCIS receives it.<\/p>\n<p>Practical implications:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you file your I-485 and include I-693 within 60 days of the civil surgeon&#8217;s signature: validity runs 2 years from the signature date<\/li>\n<li>If your I-485 case takes longer than 2 years and your I-693 expires: USCIS may request a new medical exam via an RFE<\/li>\n<li>If your interview is scheduled after your I-693 expires: bring a new I-693 to the interview<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Happens_If_a_Medical_Condition_Is_Found\"><\/span>What Happens If a Medical Condition Is Found?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Most medical conditions do not bar you from getting a green card. The conditions that can create inadmissibility grounds are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Communicable diseases of public health significance:<\/strong> Active tuberculosis, active syphilis, gonorrhea, Hansen&#8217;s disease (leprosy). These must be treated before approval, but do not permanently bar you.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mental disorders with associated harmful behavior:<\/strong> A pattern of harmful behavior, not just a diagnosis, is required for a finding of inadmissibility.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Drug abuse or addiction:<\/strong> Current substance use disorder may trigger inadmissibility requiring a waiver (Form I-601) or evidence of treatment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If a potentially inadmissible condition is found, USCIS will give you an opportunity to provide additional medical documentation or apply for a waiver. Most conditions are treatable and do not ultimately prevent green card approval. For waiver options, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/i601a-provisional-unlawful-presence-waiver-2026-guide\/\">I-601A Waiver guide<\/a> (which covers unlawful presence waivers; health-related waivers use Form I-601).<\/p>\n<section itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\">\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_Form_I-693_Immigration_Medical_Exam_2026\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions: Form I-693 Immigration Medical Exam 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_the_immigration_medical_exam_cost_in_2026\"><\/span>How much does the immigration medical exam cost in 2026?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">The immigration medical exam (Form I-693) typically costs between $200 and $500 in 2026, depending on the civil surgeon&#8217;s location and fees. This base fee usually covers the physical exam, TB testing, and standard blood work. Additional costs may apply for vaccines that need to be administered \u2014 budget an extra $50-$200 per missing vaccine series. Most health insurance plans do not cover immigration medical exams.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_is_Form_I-693_valid\"><\/span>How long is Form I-693 valid?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">Form I-693 is valid for 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs it, provided it is submitted to USCIS within 60 days of the signature date. If submitted after 60 days, the validity runs from the date USCIS receives it. If your green card case takes longer than 2 years, USCIS may request a new medical exam via an RFE before approving your I-485.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_open_the_sealed_I-693_envelope_before_submitting_it_to_USCIS\"><\/span>Can I open the sealed I-693 envelope before submitting it to USCIS?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">No. The civil surgeon seals Form I-693 in an envelope and signs across the seal. USCIS will reject the medical exam if the envelope arrives unsealed or shows evidence of tampering. Submit the sealed envelope directly to USCIS with your I-485 application or bring it to your adjustment of status interview if instructed to do so.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_vaccines_are_required_for_the_immigration_medical_exam\"><\/span>What vaccines are required for the immigration medical exam?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">Required vaccines for Form I-693 in 2026 include MMR (2 doses), varicella (2 doses or history of disease), hepatitis A (2 doses), hepatitis B (3 doses), tetanus\/diphtheria\/pertussis (Tdap once, then Td boosters), influenza (seasonal), meningococcal (for applicable age groups), and COVID-19 (current CDC schedule). Only age-appropriate vaccines are required \u2014 the civil surgeon determines which specific vaccines apply to your age group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@graph\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Article\",\n      \"headline\": \"Immigration Medical Exam (Form I-693) 2026: Civil Surgeon, Vaccines, and What to Expect\",\n      \"description\": \"Form I-693 is required for most adjustment of status applicants. Must be completed by a USCIS civil surgeon. Validity: 2 years. Covers physical exam, TB testing, HIV screening, and required vaccines. Cost: $200-$500.\",\n      \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"name\": \"Atlas Legal Immigration\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\"},\n      \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"name\": \"Atlas Legal Immigration\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\"},\n      \"datePublished\": \"2026-04-18\",\n      \"dateModified\": \"2026-04-18\"\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n      \"mainEntity\": [\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How much does the immigration medical exam cost in 2026?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The I-693 immigration medical exam costs $200-$500 depending on the civil surgeon and location. Additional costs apply for vaccines. Most health insurance does not cover this exam.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long is Form I-693 valid?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Form I-693 is valid for 2 years from the civil surgeon's signature date, provided it is submitted to USCIS within 60 days. If submitted after 60 days, validity runs from USCIS receipt date.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I open the sealed I-693 envelope?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. USCIS will reject the medical exam if the envelope is unsealed or shows tampering. Submit the sealed envelope directly to USCIS.\"}}\n      ]\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"HowTo\",\n      \"name\": \"How to Complete Form I-693 Immigration Medical Exam\",\n      \"step\": [\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Find a USCIS Civil Surgeon\", \"text\": \"Search for a designated civil surgeon near you at uscis.gov\/civil-surgeons. Call ahead to confirm availability and pricing.\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Gather Vaccination Records\", \"text\": \"Collect all prior vaccination records to bring to the appointment. Only missing vaccines will need to be administered, saving cost.\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Complete the Medical Exam\", \"text\": \"Attend the appointment for the physical exam, TB testing, blood work, and vaccination review. The civil surgeon completes Form I-693.\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Receive the Sealed Envelope\", \"text\": \"The civil surgeon seals the completed I-693 in an envelope. Do not open it.\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Submit to USCIS Within 60 Days\", \"text\": \"Include the sealed I-693 envelope with your I-485 application or bring it to your USCIS interview as instructed.\"}\n      ]\n    }\n  ]\n}\n<\/script><br \/>\n<\/article>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Form I-693 is required for most adjustment of status applicants. It must be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. Validity: 2 years. Covers physical exam, TB testing, HIV screening, and required vaccines. Cost: $200-$500. Do not open the sealed envelope. Complete 2026 guide.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1368,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[160],"tags":[389,387,393,391,390,388,392],"class_list":["post-1369","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-green-card","tag-civil-surgeon","tag-form-i-693-2026","tag-i-693-processing-2026","tag-i-693-required-vaccines","tag-i-693-validity-period","tag-immigration-medical-exam","tag-immigration-physical-exam"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1369","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1369"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1369\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1370,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1369\/revisions\/1370"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1368"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1369"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1369"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1369"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}