USCIS – the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services – is an integral department of homeland security. It is a government agency that oversees and keeps track of all lawful immigration to the United States. USCIS assists immigrants with processing applications for citizenship, managing immigration of immediate family members and regulating employment within the US.
What is the USCIS Medical Exam?
All countries have different immigration processes, each with its essential steps. For an individual to become a green card holder and a permanent resident of the United States, they must attempt a medical exam. It is a step taken to ensure public health and safety. It also eliminates any grounds for inadmissibility as certain diseases may prevent individuals from attaining residency. This construct is designed for the protection and physical wellbeing of the United States’ population. The USCIS exam allows the government to maintain a medical and vaccination record of all individuals. Moreover, through this test, they're able to determine whether or not a foreign national meets the acceptable health standard.
The USCIS medical exam is by no means a complete physical examination or consultation. It is done to screen and evaluate an individual according to immigration laws. The doctors do not need to be primary health care providers and aren't required to provide treatment even if they discover any health issues but will make appropriate recommendations. Four conditions can make an applicant inadmissible for immigration. These include:
- A communicable or transferable disease of public health significance
- Failure to provide proof of necessary vaccination
- Addictions and drug misuse
- Mental and physical disorders that can make an individual a threat to others or themselves
When to Schedule an Appointment?
Individuals within the United States can apply for the medical exam before or after filing the green card application process. If the medical exam is conducted before the filing, the applicant must submit the results with the application package. However, if the exam happens after, the applicant can carry the results to their green card interview. As far as applicants outside the US go, the National Visa Center will inform them when to schedule an appointment. For foreign nationals, the medical exam and all vaccinations must be completed before the set immigrant Visa interview date.
A doctor of your choice cannot perform this test. Only US government-approved doctors are authorized to conduct this exam. These doctors are also referred to as civil surgeons. A civil surgeon performs this test for individuals who reside within the US. In comparison, those outside the country are referred to a panel of physicians certified by the Department of State. This list of physicians is provided through consular processing by The US embassy or consulate. The cost of a USCIS medical exam varies between $200 to $1000 based on the location and the provider.
How to Prepare for The Test?
Many applicants find this step of the process incredibly nerve-wracking. However, adequate preparation and being well-informed will allow you to avoid any issues that can lead to your green card application denial. The first step is to keep your documents ready and set before the day of the exam. This can help reduce anxiety and stress. Here's what you'll need to bring to CertMedicals for your USCIS medical exam:
- Required vaccination records (if available)
- Government issue photo ID ex. state ID, driver’s license, travel and work permit
- Payment for the medical examination fee
- Individuals with past struggles of harmful or violent behavior are required to provide detailed information. This is necessary for the doctor to determine whether the underlying causes were psychiatric, medical or drug-related.
- USCIS letter such as interview appointment letter
What happens During the Exam?
The doctor conducts the exam in four basic steps:
- Review of medical history and immunization records
- Mental and Physical health evaluation
- Screening for drugs and alcohol
- Tests to check for transferable diseases and illnesses
Once the doctor has thoroughly evaluated your provided documentation, they'll ask further questions regarding past health conditions if need be. They will then check your immunization record to ensure you have received all vaccinations required for permanent citizenship.
Evidence of full COVID-19 vaccination is now required beginning October 1st, 2021.
The physical exam is fundamental (focused physical exam). It may involve a detailed assessment of the eyes, ears, nose, throat and extremities. Examination of the heart, lungs, skin, lymph nodes.
Once the test is completed, the panel physician will provide the reports and associated documents in a sealed envelope. The applicant must carry this envelope with them to their green card interview. Copies of the report will be provided to the patient for personal records. The results of the USCIS exam are valid for one year after the final signature date.
At CertMedicals, we have certified professionals to conduct the USCIS Exam. Dr Judepatricks Onyema is our certified civil surgeon who has years of training and experience in this area. Our team thoroughly understands the value and importance of this test for our applicants. You can simply click here to schedule an appointment. Our goal is to make sure that every person who comes into our clinic leaves feeling 100% satisfied.