I-693 Medical Exam in Los Angeles: Immigration Physical Requirements
Complete guide to the green card medical examination process
Quick Answer
Los Angeles has hundreds of USCIS-designated civil surgeons who can perform the required I-693 medical examination for green card applicants. Understanding what to expect, which vaccinations are required, and how to prepare can help ensure your medical exam doesn't delay your case.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
Los Angeles has hundreds of USCIS-designated civil surgeons who can perform the required I-693 medical examination for green card applicants. Understanding what to expect, which vaccinations are required, and how to prepare can help ensure your medical exam doesn't delay your case.
What is the I-693 Medical Exam?
• Conduct a physical examination
• Review vaccination history
• Administer required vaccinations
• Screen for certain conditions
• Complete and sign Form I-693
The completed form is submitted with your I-485 adjustment of status application.
Who Needs the I-693?
- •Adjustment of status applicants (I-485)
- •Diversity visa lottery winners adjusting in the U.S.
- •Some applicants for certain waivers
- •K-1 fiancé visa holders adjusting after marriage
- •Refugees applying for green card (after 1 year)
Finding a Civil Surgeon in LA
• Use the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator online
• Search by zip code in Los Angeles area
• Verify the doctor's designation is current
• Call to confirm they do immigration physicals
• Ask about pricing and what's included
Prices in Los Angeles typically range from $150-$400 depending on included vaccinations.
What to Bring to Your Exam
- •Government-issued photo ID (passport or driver's license)
- •Vaccination records (as complete as possible)
- •Medical records for any significant conditions
- •List of current medications
- •Eyeglasses or contacts if you wear them
- •Payment (most offices don't bill insurance)
The Examination Process
- 1Document Review
Doctor reviews your ID, vaccination records, and medical history
- 2Physical Exam
Basic physical including eyes, ears, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin
- 3Mental Status
Brief evaluation of mental and behavioral health
- 4Blood Tests
Testing for syphilis and other conditions if indicated
- 5TB Screening
Tuberculosis test (skin test, blood test, or chest X-ray)
- 6Vaccinations
Any missing required vaccinations administered
- 7Form Completion
Doctor completes I-693 and seals envelope
Required Vaccinations
| Vaccine | Required For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MMR | All ages | Measles, Mumps, Rubella |
| Tdap/Td | All ages | Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis |
| Polio | Under 18 | May be waived for adults |
| Hepatitis B | Under 18 | Series of 3 shots |
| Varicella | All ages | Chickenpox vaccine |
| Influenza | During flu season | Annual flu shot |
| COVID-19 | All ages | Per current USCIS guidance |
Tuberculosis Testing
• Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) blood test is preferred
• Tuberculin skin test (TST) is alternative
• Positive screening requires chest X-ray
• Active TB requires treatment before approval
• Latent TB may require treatment plan documentation
Many Middle Eastern applicants test positive due to BCG vaccination - this usually only requires X-ray confirmation.
I-693 Validity Period
• Valid for 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs it
• Must be valid when you file I-485 AND when USCIS makes decision
• If your case takes longer than 2 years, you may need a new exam
• Don't get the exam too early - timing matters
Recommendation: Get the exam shortly before filing your I-485, not months in advance.
Common Issues and Solutions
• Missing vaccination records: Doctor can administer vaccines or accept titer blood tests showing immunity
• Positive TB test: Usually just requires clear chest X-ray, not a problem
• Mental health conditions: Most conditions don't affect immigration, be honest with the doctor
• Physical disabilities: Generally don't affect green card eligibility
• HIV positive: No longer a bar to immigration (changed in 2010)
After the Examination
• Doctor places I-693 in sealed envelope
• You sign across the seal (do not open)
• Keep envelope sealed until USCIS interview
• Bring to interview or submit with I-485
• USCIS officer opens at interview
Opening the envelope voids the form and you'll need a new exam.
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:How much does the I-693 exam cost in Los Angeles?
A: Prices typically range from $150-$400. Higher prices usually include more vaccinations. Shop around and ask what's included. Vaccinations are the most variable cost.
Q:Can I use my regular doctor?
A: Only if your doctor is a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. Most regular doctors are not. You must use the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator to find an authorized physician.
Q:What if I can't find my vaccination records?
A: The civil surgeon can either administer the vaccines again or draw blood for titer tests that prove immunity. Either option satisfies USCIS requirements.
Q:I tested positive for TB - will I be denied?
A: A positive TB screening test is very common and usually not a problem. You'll need a chest X-ray to rule out active TB. If clear, your application proceeds normally.
Q:Can I submit I-693 after filing I-485?
A: Yes. Many applicants file I-485 first and bring the sealed I-693 to their interview. However, submitting it with your application may speed up processing.
Q:What happens if my I-693 expires?
A: If your I-693 expires before USCIS decides your case, you'll need a new medical exam. USCIS will notify you or request a new I-693 if this happens.
Questions About Your Medical Exam?
Our team helps Los Angeles green card applicants understand and prepare for the I-693 medical examination requirements.
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