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Medical Offices of Manhattan

Immigration & USCIS Medical Exams in NYC

What Is an Immigration Medical Exam?

Before applying for a U.S. green card, you must complete an immigration medical exam in NYC with a doctor authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This exam ensures you meet the health requirements for permanent residency. Our clinic has several USCIS-authorized doctors who can guide you through the process from start to finish.

How to Prepare for Your Immigration Medical Exam in NYC

When getting ready for your immigration medical exam in NYC, make sure you bring:

  • Form I-693 – This is the official USCIS form your doctor will complete after your exam.
  • Government-issued photo ID – Acceptable options include a valid passport, driver’s license, or state-issued ID. Children under 14 must have an ID showing their name, birth details, and parents’ full names.
  • Vaccination/immunization record – Your doctor will review these and let you know if additional shots are needed before your application.
  • Payment – The cost for the USCIS medical exam can be paid by debit, credit, or cash.

Why You Need an Immigration Medical Exam

USCIS requires all green card applicants to have a physical evaluation by a certified immigration doctor. The immigration medical exam in NYC helps determine if you have any health conditions that could prevent you from entering or remaining in the U.S. Only USCIS-approved physicians (civil surgeons) can perform this exam.

What Happens During the Exam?

Your immigration medical exam in NYC is a straightforward visit. The doctor will:

  1. Review your vaccination history
  2. Check for communicable diseases, such as:
    • Gonorrhea
    • Leprosy (infectious)
    • Syphilis (infectious stage)
    • Active Tuberculosis (Class A)
  3. Complete the USCIS medical paperwork for your application.

After Your Immigration Medical Exam

Within about two weeks, you’ll receive your completed Form I-693 in a sealed envelope. It’s important not to open this envelope. Bring it directly to your USCIS appointment, as opened forms will not be accepted.

Possible Risks or Outcomes

While most people pass their immigration medical exam in NYC without issues, some may be deemed medically inadmissible due to:

  • Certain infectious diseases
  • Lack of required vaccinations
  • History of drug abuse
  • Physical or mental disorders posing safety risks

Additional Health Checks

Even after completing your immigration medical exam in NYC, we recommend scheduling annual physicals to monitor your overall health. Some employers also require pre-employment physical exams.

Which Providers Perform the USCIS Exam?

Meet Medical Offices of Manhattan

Denise Pate, MD is a Board Certified Internal Medicine physician. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology at New York University where she was named a regional finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship and graduated Magna Cum Laude. She earned her Medical Degree at New York... Learn More »

By: Medical Offices of Manhattan
Reviewed By: Dr. Denise Pate

Published: Jun 7th, 2021
Last Reviewed: Aug 18th, 2025