I-693 Medical Exam Guide in Westminster: Immigration Physical Requirements 2026
Complete guide to the immigration medical examination for green card applicants
Quick Answer
The I-693 immigration medical exam must be performed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. It includes physical exam, vaccination review (MMR, Hepatitis A/B, COVID-19, etc.), TB screening, and blood tests. The form is valid for 2 years. Costs typically range $200-600. Bring ID, vaccination records, and payment.
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General information only. Not legal advice.
Westminster residents applying for green cards must complete the immigration medical examination (Form I-693) as part of the adjustment of status process. This guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and where to find USCIS-designated civil surgeons in the Westminster and Orange County area.
What is the I-693 Medical Examination?
• You don't have any communicable diseases of public health significance
• You have received required vaccinations
• You don't have physical or mental disorders that could pose a danger
• You are not a drug abuser or addict
The exam must be performed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon - regular doctors cannot complete this exam.
Who Needs the I-693 Medical Exam?
- •Applying for adjustment of status (Form I-485)
- •Applying for certain other green card benefits
- •A K-1 fiancé whose prior medical exam has expired
- •A refugee applying for adjustment after 1 year
- •Certain other applicants requiring medical clearance
Finding a Civil Surgeon
1. Visit the USCIS website civil surgeon locator tool
2. Enter your zip code (92683 for Westminster)
3. Choose from the list of nearby civil surgeons
4. Call to schedule an appointment and ask about fees
Many civil surgeons in Westminster and Orange County serve the large immigrant community and have multilingual staff.
What to Bring to Your Medical Exam
- •Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license)
- •Vaccination records (all available records from any country)
- •Medical history documentation if applicable
- •Glasses or contacts if you wear them
- •List of current medications
- •Payment (cash, credit card - check with civil surgeon)
- •Insurance card (though most don't accept insurance for I-693)
Required Vaccinations for I-693
| Vaccine | Who Needs It | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mumps, Measles, Rubella (MMR) | All applicants | Usually 2 doses required |
| Polio | Under age 18 | Series completion |
| Tetanus/Diphtheria (Td/Tdap) | All applicants | Within 10 years |
| Pertussis | Under age 65 | Usually with Tdap |
| Hepatitis A | All applicants | 2-dose series |
| Hepatitis B | All applicants | 3-dose series |
| Varicella (Chickenpox) | All applicants | If no immunity |
| Influenza (Flu) | Seasonal | During flu season |
| COVID-19 | All applicants | Per current guidelines |
What Happens During the Exam
- 1Document Review
Civil surgeon reviews your ID and vaccination records
- 2Medical History
Questions about past illnesses, surgeries, mental health
- 3Physical Examination
Basic physical exam including eyes, ears, heart, lungs
- 4Blood Tests
Testing for syphilis and gonorrhea (required)
- 5TB Screening
TB test or chest X-ray depending on risk factors
- 6Vaccinations
Receive any required vaccinations you're missing
- 7Form Completion
Civil surgeon completes and seals Form I-693
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing
If you have no TB risk factors:
• Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) blood test, OR
• Tuberculin Skin Test (TST)
If positive or from high-TB country:
• Chest X-ray required
• If abnormal X-ray, sputum tests may be needed
If you have active TB:
• Must complete treatment before green card approval
• Treatment monitoring required
I-693 Validity Period
• The signature date cannot be more than 60 days BEFORE you file I-485
• The form must still be valid when USCIS makes a decision
• If your form expires during processing, you may need a new exam
• Keep a copy of your completed I-693 for your records
Common Medical Grounds of Inadmissibility
- •Communicable diseases of public health significance (active TB, untreated syphilis/gonorrhea, leprosy)
- •Failure to show proof of required vaccinations
- •Physical or mental disorder with harmful behavior
- •Drug abuse or addiction
- •Some conditions may qualify for waivers
Costs for Immigration Medical Exam
| Component | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic exam fee | $150-300 | Varies by civil surgeon |
| TB blood test (IGRA) | $50-150 | If required |
| Chest X-ray | $50-100 | If TB test positive |
| Vaccinations | $50-200 each | Depends on which needed |
| Blood tests | $25-75 | Syphilis/gonorrhea |
| Total typical range | $200-600+ | Plan for $400 average |
Tips for a Smooth Medical Exam
- •Schedule early - civil surgeons can be busy, especially before filing deadlines
- •Bring all vaccination records - even from other countries, in original form
- •Get missing vaccinations beforehand if possible - may be cheaper at pharmacy
- •Eat normally before the exam - fasting not usually required
- •Don't open the sealed envelope - only USCIS should open it
- •Keep a copy - ask for copies of all forms and test results
- •If you have health conditions, bring documentation from your regular doctor
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Do I have to use a specific civil surgeon?
A: You can use any USCIS-designated civil surgeon anywhere in the United States. You don't have to use one near your home, but it's usually more convenient.
Q:My I-693 is about to expire. What should I do?
A: If your I-693 will expire before USCIS decides your case, you may need a new exam. Contact USCIS or submit a new I-693 proactively to avoid delays.
Q:I'm afraid of needles. Can I skip the blood tests?
A: Blood tests for syphilis and possibly TB are required and cannot be waived. The civil surgeon's office can help if you have needle anxiety.
Q:What if I can't get all vaccinations due to medical reasons?
A: The civil surgeon can document medical contraindications on the I-693. You may need a letter from your treating physician explaining why you cannot receive certain vaccines.
Q:Can I refuse the COVID-19 vaccine for religious reasons?
A: You may request a religious exemption, but USCIS will evaluate whether the exemption applies. Consult with an immigration professional about current policies.
Need Help Preparing for Your Medical Exam?
Our Westminster team can help you locate a civil surgeon, understand vaccination requirements, and ensure your I-693 is properly completed.
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