Green Card Medical Exams in NYC: What to Expect & How to Prepare

Introduction

If you are applying for a green card in the United States, undergoing a medical exam is a crucial step in the process. This exam ensures that applicants meet the health requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If you are in New York City (NYC) and need to complete this medical examination, it is essential to understand the process, requirements, and where to find an authorized civil surgeon.

What Is a Green Card Medical Exam?

A Green Card Medical Exams NYC, officially known as the USCIS immigration medical examination, is required for individuals applying for adjustment of status (Form I-485) to become lawful permanent residents. The purpose of this exam is to ensure that applicants do not have any health conditions that could pose a public health risk or make them inadmissible to the United States.

This medical exam must be conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon in the U.S. or a panel physician if you are applying from outside the country.

Who Needs a Green Card Medical Exam?

The medical exam is required for:

• Individuals applying for a green card through family sponsorship, employment, asylum, or other categories.
• Refugees and asylees adjusting their status.
• Applicants are required to submit Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record).

How to Find a USCIS-Approved Civil Surgeon in NYC

In New York City, you must visit a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon for your green card medical exam. To find an approved doctor:

1. Visit the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator tool on the USCIS website.
2. Enter your ZIP code to get a list of authorized physicians near you.
3. Contact the civil surgeon’s office to confirm their availability, pricing, and required documents.

NYC has many civil surgeons located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island, offering green card medical exams.

What to Bring to Your Green Card Medical Exam in NYC

To ensure a smooth process, bring the following documents to your Green Card Medical Exams NYC appointment:

• Government-issued identification (passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate with a certified translation if needed).
• Form I-693 (download and print from the USCIS website; your doctor will complete it).
• Vaccination records (if available, to verify your immunization history).
• Medical history records (especially for past surgeries, chronic conditions, or prior TB treatment).
• List of medications you are currently taking.
• Glasses or contact lenses (if applicable).
• Payment for the exam (costs vary by provider and location).

What to Expect During the Green Card Medical Exam

Your medical exam will include the following components:

1. Physical Examination

The civil surgeon will check your overall health, including:

• Height, weight, and blood pressure measurement.
• Examination of the eyes, ears, nose, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and neurological functions.
• Checking for signs of infectious diseases, tuberculosis (TB), and other conditions that may affect admissibility.

2. Vaccination Requirements

USCIS requires that all applicants meet the CDC’s vaccination guidelines. Commonly required vaccines include:

• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
• Hepatitis B
• Influenza (seasonal flu vaccine)
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• COVID-19 vaccine

If you are missing any required vaccines, the civil surgeon may administer them during your visit.

3. Tuberculosis (TB) Screening

• Applicants 2 years and older must undergo a TB test.
• A tuberculin skin test (TST) or interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) blood test will be performed.
• If the initial test is positive, a chest X-ray may be required.

4. Blood Tests for Communicable Diseases

• Applicants 15 years and older are tested for syphilis (via a blood test) and gonorrhea (via a urine test).

5. Mental and Behavioral Health Assessment

• The doctor will evaluate for any mental health disorders or substance abuse issues that could pose a public safety risk.

What Happens After the Medical Exam?

Once your medical exam is complete, the civil surgeon will:

• Fill out and seal Form I-693 in an envelope. Do not open the envelope, as USCIS requires it to remain sealed.
• Provide you with a copy of the completed Form I-693 for your records.
• Advise you on any additional medical requirements if necessary.

If applying from outside the U.S., the results will be sent directly to the U.S. embassy or consulate handling your immigration case.

Common Reasons for Medical Inadmissibility

Some medical conditions can make an applicant inadmissible for a green card, including:

• Communicable diseases of public health significance (e.g., untreated TB, syphilis).
• Failure to meet vaccination requirements (unless exempt for medical or religious reasons).
• Drug addiction or substance abuse disorders.
• Mental disorders are associated with harmful behavior.

If any of these conditions apply to you, the civil surgeon may provide recommendations for treatment or further documentation for USCIS.

Tips for a Smooth Green Card Medical Exam Process

1. Schedule your exam early to avoid delays in your green card application.
2. Bring all required documents, including medical history and vaccination records.
3. Follow the doctor’s instructions regarding additional tests or vaccines.
4. Keep a personal copy of the results for future reference.
5. Ensure that Form I-693 remains sealed before submitting it to USCIS.

Conclusion

The green card medical exam is a necessary step in the immigration process, ensuring that applicants meet the U.S. health standards. If you are in New York City, it is essential to choose a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon, prepare your documents, and follow the necessary procedures for a smooth experience.