Attorney Jerry Zhang (02/12/2025)

As U.S. immigration policies continue to evolve, the procedures related to green card applications (I-485) and the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (I-693) are also being refined and optimized. For applicants who are currently or about to submit I-485 applications, understanding the latest I-693 policies is important. It can help applicants avoid additional medical examinations or delays in their applications due to policy changes. This article will provide a detailed interpretation of the latest changes in I-693 policies to assist applicants in better planning their application process.

I. Basic Requirements for I-693

I-693, or the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is an essential component of the I-485 application for adjustment of status. This form must be completed and signed by a Civil Surgeon authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to certify that the applicant meets the health requirements stipulated by U.S. immigration law. The medical examination includes screening for infectious diseases, vaccination records, and a general health assessment.

According to previous regulations, I-693 was valid for 2 years from the date it was signed by the Civil Surgeon. However, with recent policy changes, this validity rule has been adjusted.

II. Latest Policy Changes

USCIS has made significant updates to the validity rules for I-693 (https://www.uscis.gov/archive/uscis-temporarily-extending-validity-period-of-form-i-693), with the following specific changes:

1. Extension of I-693 Validity Period

Under the new policy, the validity period of I-693 has been extended from 2 years to 4 years. This change aims to reduce the need for applicants to undergo repeat medical examinations due to expired reports, thereby saving time and financial costs.

2. Submission Time Limit

Despite the extension of I-693 validity period, USCIS still requires that the I-693 be signed no more than 60 days before the submission of the I-485 application. This rule ensures the timeliness and accuracy of the medical examination results.

3. Applicability to All Pending Applications

The new policy applies not only to newly submitted I-485 applications but also to applications that have already been submitted but not yet adjudicated. If the applicant's I-693 form remains valid at the time of adjudication (the signing date is within four years), there is no need to resubmit it.

III. Policy Implementation Details

Effective Date: This policy officially took effect on December 9, 2021.

Scope of Application: Applies to I-693 forms signed by authorized Civil Surgeons on or after December 9, 2021.

Validity Rule: The I-693 form is valid for 4 years from the date it is signed by the Civil Surgeon.

IV. Frequently Asked Questions

1. If my I-485 application has already been submitted but my I-693 is about to expire, do I need to undergo another medical examination?

If your I-485 application has not yet been adjudicated and I-693 signing date is within 4 years, you do not need to undergo another medical examination. However, if the signing date exceeds 4 years, USCIS may require you to submit a new medical examination report.

2. What should I do if my vaccination records are incomplete?

If your vaccination records are incomplete, the authorized Civil Surgeon will administer the necessary vaccines for you. Common vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), tetanus, and seasonal influenza.

3. Are medical examination fees included in the I-485 application fee?

Medical examination fees are the responsibility of the applicant and are not included in I-485 application fee. Fees vary by physician and region, so it is advisable to consult an authorized Civil Surgeon by USCIS in advance for a quote.

V. Conclusion

As a crucial component of I-485 application, changes in I-693 policies directly impact the time and financial costs for applicants. The recent policy adjustments, particularly the extension of the validity period, provide more convenience for applicants. However, applicants must still pay attention to the submission time limit and plan their medical examinations in advance to ensure a smooth application process.

For applicants preparing to submit I-485 applications, staying informed about policy changes and consulting with a professional immigration attorney or authorized Civil Surgeon is key to ensuring a successful application. We hope that this article's interpretation will help you better navigate I-693 requirements in the I-485 application process and successfully complete your green card application.

---

Founded in 1996, Zhang & Associates, P.C. offers legal services to clients worldwide in all aspects of U.S immigration law. We have successfully handled over ten thousand immigration cases.

At Zhang & Associates, P.C., our attorneys and supporting professionals are committed to providing high-quality immigration and non-immigration visa services. We specialize in NIW, EB-1, PERM, I-485 I-130, H-1B, O, L and J cases. In the past over twenty years, we have successfully helped over ten thousand clients get green cards. If you plan to apply for a green card, please send your CV to Attorney Jerry Zhang (info@hooyou.com) for a free evaluation.

Zhang & Associates, P.C.

Chicago • Houston •Seattle 

Tel:	1-800-230-7040, 713-771-8433
Email:	info@hooyou.com
website:	http://www.hooyou.com

 

(02/12/2025)