It is normal to worry about this. We will explain it in simple words. We will tell you what the medical checks look for. We will also tell you how Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care can help.
What Is the Immigration Medical Exam?
If you apply for a green card, you usually need a medical exam. A doctor called a civil surgeon does the exam. The doctor prepares Form I-693 for USCIS. The exam looks at your health and your vaccine record.
Which Medical Conditions Matter?
Some health issues can make a person “inadmissible.” This means the government might refuse the application for health reasons. The review looks for a few main things:
- Communicable diseases that can spread and hurt public health.
- Disorders, whether physical or mental, that involve harmful actions posing risks to others.
- Drug abuse or addiction.
- Missing required vaccines.
If the civil surgeon finds one of these problems, they mark it on the report. Sometimes the problem can be treated or fixed. Then the civil surgeon may clear the applicant.
What About Vaccines?
Immigration applicants often must have certain vaccines. The civil surgeon reviews your vaccine history. If you do not have the needed vaccines, you may need to get them as part of the medical exam. A vaccine may be exempted for medical reasons in certain situations.
Can a Medical Issue Stop My Green Card?
A medical issue can slow things down. In some cases, it can stop your green card application if the condition meets the rules for inadmissibility. But many health issues can be treated, controlled, or documented so you can move forward. The civil surgeon’s notes and medical records are very important.
If you have a treatable infection or you can show you follow treatment, the civil surgeon may clear you after treatment. If the issue is more complex, you and your doctor may need to work with an immigration lawyer.
Can a Medical Issue Affect Citizenship?
For naturalization (becoming a U.S. citizen), the rules are different. Most health conditions do not stop you from applying for citizenship. You may be eligible for an exception if a permanent condition prevents you from learning English or civics. A licensed healthcare provider must fill out Form N-648 to request this exception.
If you need this exception, your doctor will explain your condition and how it limits you. USCIS reviews the medical form along with your application.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Bring your vaccine records to your visit. This assists the civil surgeon in completing Form I-693.
- Tell your doctor about any past or current treatments. Be open about medication or addiction treatment. This helps the civil surgeon and your lawyer, if you have one.
- If you have a learning disability, consult your doctor regarding Form N-648.
How Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care Can Help
We offer immigration physicals and exams. We can:
- Do the full immigration medical exam and complete Form I-693.
- Review and record your vaccines.
- Do lab work and tests if the doctor needs them.
- Provide treatment or referrals for infections, diabetes, injuries, or addiction care.
- Offer telemedicine or in-person visits from 8 AM to 5 PM.
If you need help with vaccine records or treatment before your exam, we can help you get ready. Call us at 951-272-5900 to make an appointment or ask questions.
Quick Tips Before Your Exam
- Bring any vaccine cards or medical records you have.
- Bring a list of medicines you take.
- Be honest about past drug use or mental health care. Full disclosure helps.
- If you have a long-term disability and think you need an exception for naturalization tests, tell the doctor.
When to Talk to an Immigration Lawyer
If your doctor finds a serious condition or if you have questions about waivers, speak with an immigration lawyer. A lawyer can explain your options and help you gather the right documents. Medical care and legal help often work together in these cases.
Final Words
A medical condition can affect an immigration case, but many problems can be treated, documented, or given an exception. We will work with you to get the right records and care. You do not have to do this alone.
For help with immigration physicals, vaccines, lab work, or addiction treatment, call Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care at 951-272-5900. We offer telemedicine and in-person care and we are here to support you.
FAQs
Q. Do I need a medical exam for a green card?
Yes. Most green card applicants need a health exam by a civil surgeon.
Q. Can health stop me from becoming a U.S. citizen?
Most health issues do not stop you. If you have a long-term disability, a doctor can fill out Form N-648.