Everything You Need to Know About Immigration Examinations at Medi-Station Urgent Care
The immigration process to the United States is a journey filled with many steps, and one critical requirement for applicants seeking citizenship, permanent residency, or a green card is the immigration medical examination. At Medi-Station Urgent Care in Miami Shores, we provide trusted and thorough immigration physical services conducted by Dr. Sanchez, a licensed US Civil Surgeon authorized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
This blog will guide you through the essential facts about immigration examinations, what to expect, and how Medi-Station makes this vital step smooth and efficient for applicants.
What is an Immigration Medical Examination?
An immigration medical exam is a mandatory physical examination required by USCIS to ensure that individuals applying for certain immigration benefits meet the health standards required by law. The exam is performed only by USCIS-designated civil surgeons like Dr. Sanchez.
The goal is to prevent the admission of individuals with communicable diseases or health conditions that could pose a public health risk. The results are documented on the official Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, which must be submitted sealed with your immigration application.
What Does the Exam Include?
At Medi-Station Urgent Care, the immigration physical consists of several key components:
- A complete physical examination including general health assessment
- A review of your vaccination records or administration of necessary vaccines to meet USCIS requirements
- Testing for communicable diseases:
- Syphilis test (RPR) for applicants aged 15 and older (or younger if indicated)
- Gonorrhea test for applicants aged 15 and older (or younger if determined necessary)
- TB testing (tuberculosis)—if positive, a chest X-ray is performed on site for additional screening
- Documentation and certification of results on Form I-693, which is submitted in a sealed envelope to USCIS
- Copies of laboratory testing results and vaccination history for your records
Vaccination Requirements: What You Need to Know
To comply with USCIS and CDC guidelines, certain vaccinations are mandatory to complete Form I-693. These include:
- Influenza vaccine (seasonal, typically October-May)
- Polio vaccine
- Varicella vaccine (or documented history of chickenpox)
- Hepatitis A (2 doses)
- Hepatitis B (3 doses)
- T-Dap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
- MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella – 2 doses)
- COVID-19 vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccine (for applicants over 65)
If you don’t have documented proof of prior vaccinations, these can be administered at Medi-Station or at a local health department. Completing all required vaccines is crucial to avoid rejection of your immigration forms.
What to Bring to Your Immigration Exam
For a smooth and speedy process, make sure to bring the following:
- Valid government-issued photo ID such as a passport (preferred), driver’s license, or military ID
- Any current or prior medical records, especially related to any infectious diseases (these should be translated into English if necessary)
- Immunization or vaccination records (official translations required if not in English)
- Any mental health documentation if applicable
- Prepare to spend up to 2 hours during your first visit, as laboratory testing and vaccine administration may be needed
After the Exam: What Happens Next?
Upon completion, Medi-Station will provide you with a sealed Form I-693 envelope, which must be turned in unopened to USCIS along with your immigration application. This sealed form contains your exam results and vaccination record certifying that you meet medical admissibility standards.
You will also receive copies of your blood test results and vaccination records for your records. Note that the medical exam form is generally valid for up to one year.
Important Updates and USCIS Policy Changes for 2025
Recent policy changes require applicants to submit the Form I-693 medical exam results along with their green card application (Form I-485). The USCIS has also limited the validity period of this medical exam, so make sure to schedule and complete your exam timely to avoid delays.
If your application is withdrawn or denied, any previously submitted Form I-693 becomes invalid, and you must complete a new exam for subsequent applications.
Why Choose Medi-Station Urgent Care for Your Immigration Examination?
- Authorized USCIS Civil Surgeon: Dr. Sanchez is licensed to perform immigration exams, ensuring compliance with federal guidelines
- On-site Diagnostic Testing and X-rays: Including chest X-rays for TB screening, minimizing the need for separate appointments
- Bilingual Staff: English, Spanish, and Creole languages offered to accommodate diverse patient needs
- Comprehensive Vaccine Services: All required immunizations are available onsite or facilitated through local health departments
- Efficient Process: We streamline appointments to minimize wait times, providing timely results and sealed documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the immigration medical exam process take?
The initial visit typically takes 1-2 hours, with lab tests requiring 1-4 days for completion depending on testing required.
What if I don’t have vaccination records from my home country?
You will need to receive all required vaccinations at Medi-Station or through a health department to complete the exam.
Can children and minors get the medical exam at Medi-Station?
Yes, we provide immigration physicals for applicants of all ages, with testing and vaccines adapted accordingly.
Is the medical exam valid for other immigration purposes?
Yes, the exam is necessary for most green card applicants but may also be required for naturalization or other immigration benefits.
Take Your Next Step with Confidence
If you’re preparing to apply for U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or a green card, the immigration medical exam is a necessary and non-negotiable step. At Medi-Station Urgent Care, we are dedicated to making this process clear, comfortable, and efficient—helping you meet all legal medical requirements with peace of mind.
Schedule your immigration examination today, and let our experienced team guide you through every step of your immigration journey.