Most people feel nervous before their immigration medical exam simply because they don’t know what to expect. The good news: it is a routine visit, there is nothing to “pass” by studying, and most of it takes place in a single appointment. Here is exactly what happens, step by step.
1. Check-in and ID
You show your passport or government photo ID so the civil surgeon can confirm who you are. The name on your ID should match your immigration application. If you filled in your personal section of Form I-693 in advance, bring it unsigned — you sign it in front of the doctor.
2. Medical history
The civil surgeon asks about past illnesses, hospital stays, current medications, chronic conditions and any history of tuberculosis. Answer honestly; most health conditions do not affect your application. Bring a medication list and any relevant records to keep this part short.
3. Physical exam
A standard head-to-toe exam: eyes, ears, nose and throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, lymph nodes and extremities. The doctor also does a brief mental-health and substance-use screening, as required by the CDC Technical Instructions. You stay in a gown only as long as needed, and you may ask for a chaperone.
4. Required lab tests
A quick blood draw (plus a urine sample for some ages) covers the tests USCIS requires based on your age:
- Tuberculosis (TB): an IGRA blood test for everyone age 2 and older. If it is positive, you will need a chest X-ray and possibly further evaluation.
- Syphilis: a blood test for applicants age 18 to 44.
- Gonorrhea: a urine test for applicants age 18 to 24.
At our clinics these required labs are included in the $375 flat price.
5. Vaccine record review
The civil surgeon compares your vaccination records with the CDC list for your age. If something is missing, you can get the vaccine at the visit or, for some diseases, a titer blood test to prove immunity. The more records you bring, the fewer shots you need.
6. Results and the sealed I-693
Once your lab results are back and any follow-up is done, the civil surgeon completes and signs Form I-693 and places it in a sealed envelope. Do not open it — USCIS rejects forms that arrive unsealed. Since December 2, 2024, the sealed form must be filed together with your Form I-485. See how long it takes to get your I-693 for typical timelines.
How long does the visit take?
For most patients the appointment itself takes under an hour. Coming from far away? Our One-Visit option is designed to cut down on return trips.
Ready to get it done? Book your exam online at our Villa Park or Des Plaines clinic, or call or text (224) 899-5959 with questions — our team speaks English, Spanish, Hindi, Urdu, Polish, Ukrainian, Russian, Malayalam and Gujarati.
General information, not medical or legal advice. Your civil surgeon decides what applies to you; for case questions, ask your attorney or see uscis.gov/i-693.
