What Vaccines Do I Need for an Immigration Medical Exam?

Applying for a green card or U.S. citizenship can feel overwhelming, with many steps and requirements to navigate. One key part of the process is the immigration medical exam and the required vaccinations that go along with it.

United States laws require individuals applying for permanent residence or U.S. citizenship to receive specific vaccinations before receiving a visa. These vaccination requirements, recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), are put in place to protect the health of each applicant and reduce the risk of disease spread. If applicants aren’t properly vaccinated, they may be vulnerable to infectious diseases, some of which have the potential to cause an outbreak in the broader community. Wondering which vaccines you need for your immigration medical exam? Keep reading for more information.

Required Vaccinations

The vaccines currently recommended by the CDC and ACIP include the following:

• Influenza
• Influenza type b (Hib)
• Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids
• Measles
• Mumps
• Pneumococcal
• Pertussis
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Polio
• Rotavirus
• Rubella
• Meningococcal
• Varicella

The number of vaccines you need from this list will depend on your age, records, and medical history. This list may be updated over time, so be sure to visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website for the most up-to-date information.

Proof of Vaccination

Bring your current vaccination records to your immigration medical exam appointment. This is essential in helping your provider determine which vaccines you still need to complete the Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693). You are required to show proof of vaccinations recommended on this form to move forward with your application for permanent residence status.

If you don’t have a copy of your current vaccination record, don’t worry. Your doctor can help you determine which vaccines you still need based on your age and medical history. Once your exam is complete and any needed vaccines have been administered, the doctor will complete Form I-693 and give it to you in a sealed envelope. This sealed form must be submitted to USCIS as part of your immigration application, so it’s important not to open it after your visit.

Scheduling Your Immigration Medical Exam

Before you try to schedule your immigration medical exam, it’s important to know that you can’t simply visit any doctor. Immigration medical exams need to be conducted by a civil surgeon. Civil surgeons are licensed physicians within the United States who have been specially designated and authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to conduct these exams. These doctors are trained to follow strict guidelines to ensure that all health requirements and vaccination mandates are properly evaluated and documented.

If you’re located near Greenwood, IN, and need an immigrant medical exam, Supro Direct is here to assist you. We have a qualified civil surgeon on staff who is experienced in conducting immigration physicals and serving patients from a wide range of countries and cultures. We understand the importance of this exam and are committed to providing thorough, compassionate care to help you through the process. Contact us today to learn more, or give us a call to schedule an appointment.