What is a USCIS civil surgeon?

If you plan to immigrate to the United States, you may come across the term “USCIS civil surgeon.”

A USCIS civil surgeon is a licensed medical professional designated by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to perform medical examinations on applicants seeking adjustment of status or other immigration benefits.

Why are medical exams required for immigration?

The US government requires medical exams as part of the immigration process to protect the public health of its citizens. The medical exam ensures that applicants don’t have any medical conditions that may pose a public health threat and overburden the US healthcare system.

What does a USCIS civil surgeon do?

A USCIS civil surgeon conducts a thorough medical examination of the applicant and completes Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. The form is a required part of the application package for certain immigration benefits, including adjustment of status, which allows you to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a green card) while already in the US.
The medical examination includes reviewing your medical history, physical examination, and laboratory testing for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea.
The USCIS civil surgeon also reviews vaccination records and administers any missing vaccinations.

Who can be a USCIS civil surgeon?

A USCIS civil surgeon must be a licensed medical professional in good standing with their state licensing board.

They must also meet additional requirements set by the USCIS, such as completing a training course on the immigration medical exam and signing a memorandum of understanding with the USCIS.

How do I find a USCIS civil surgeon near me?

You can easily find a USCIS civil surgeon near you online and find locations that are available for your immigration medical exam.

What can I expect during the medical exam?

The medical exam typically takes about an hour to complete and includes a review of your medical history, physical examination, behavioral assessment, and laboratory testing. It is important to bring any medical records, including vaccination records, to the appointment.

Specifically, the USCIS civil surgeon will ask questions about any chronic conditions, hospitalizations, surgeries, and current medications.

You will also be required to provide a blood sample for laboratory testing for communicable diseases. The USCIS civil surgeon will review the results of the laboratory tests and notify you if any follow-up is required.

After completing the medical exam, the USCIS civil surgeon will complete Form I-693 and provide a copy to you, the applicant, in a sealed envelope. With your immigration application package, you must include this sealed envelope.

Bottom line

A USCIS civil surgeon plays a vital role in the immigration process by ensuring that applicants meet the US government’s health requirements.

Therefore, you should follow the USCIS guidelines and bring any necessary medical records to the appointment to help ensure a smooth and efficient process.