When applying for a U.S. permanent residency (green card), there are several forms and processes to complete. One of the critical forms in the immigration journey is Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This form is a requirement for individuals applying for a green card through adjustment of status. It ensures that applicants meet the health-related standards set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The cost of completing Form I-693 is a common question for many applicants. This article will explain the total cost associated with Form I-693, how to go about completing it, and why it’s important. Additionally, we will look at other factors that can influence the cost of the process, including medical examination fees and vaccine-related expenses.
What is Form I-693?
The Purpose of Form I-693
Form I-693, the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is used to document the results of a medical examination required by USCIS for individuals seeking adjustment of status to become U.S. permanent residents. The exam is conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon, and the form provides important information about the applicant’s health status, including vaccinations and any communicable diseases that could pose a threat to public health.
If an applicant has certain medical conditions or does not meet vaccination requirements, they may be denied a green card. The examination also ensures that applicants do not pose a public health risk and are medically eligible for permanent residency.
Who Needs Form I-693?
Most applicants for permanent residency (green card) who are adjusting their status while inside the United States will need to submit Form I-693. This form is typically submitted along with Form I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
Form I-693 may not be required in all cases, such as for individuals applying for certain visa categories or individuals who have already had their medical exam as part of the U.S. embassy or consulate processing abroad.
How Much Does Form I-693 Cost?
Breaking Down the Total Cost
The cost of Form I-693 can vary depending on several factors, including the medical examination and the vaccinations required by USCIS. While USCIS itself does not charge a fee to file Form I-693, there are associated costs for the medical examination and the vaccinations. These costs are paid directly to the civil surgeon who performs the examination.
Medical Examination Fee
The medical examination required for Form I-693 is conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. The fee for this examination can vary widely depending on the location, the doctor’s office, and the type of services provided. On average, applicants can expect to pay between $100 to $500 for the medical exam.
The medical examination fee typically covers the following:
Physical and mental health evaluation
Testing for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea
General health check-up
Review of medical history
It’s important to note that some civil surgeons may charge additional fees for specific tests or lab work required during the exam. Applicants should always inquire about the full cost of the exam upfront before scheduling an appointment.
Vaccination Fees
As part of the medical examination process, applicants must show proof of vaccination against specific diseases, including mumps, measles, rubella, and others. If the applicant does not have a record of these vaccinations, they will need to be vaccinated as part of the exam. The cost of vaccinations can vary, but it typically ranges from $50 to $300 depending on the required vaccines and the civil surgeon’s office.
Some civil surgeons offer discounted vaccine packages or may include vaccination costs in the overall medical examination fee. However, in some cases, the applicant may need to get vaccines from a separate provider if they are not offered by the civil surgeon.
Additional Costs
In some cases, there may be additional fees for special services, such as:
Chest X-rays (required if the applicant tests positive for tuberculosis or other issues)
Blood tests for certain diseases
Extra consultations or follow-ups if medical issues are detected during the exam
Applicants should be prepared for these possible extra charges, although many of these additional costs are rare and only apply to specific cases.
How to Pay for Form I-693 and Associated Costs
The cost of the medical examination and vaccinations is typically paid directly to the civil surgeon’s office. The civil surgeon will provide instructions on how to pay for these services. USCIS does not collect any fees for Form I-693 itself, so there is no filing fee required when submitting the completed form.
It is important to keep all receipts and documentation related to the medical exam and vaccinations, as this may be required for your permanent residency application.
Why Is Form I-693 Important?
Meeting Health Requirements for Immigration
Form I-693 is crucial for ensuring that applicants meet the health requirements necessary for immigration to the United States. The U.S. government wants to make sure that immigrants do not pose a risk to public health, especially in areas like communicable diseases, mental health, and vaccinations.
Without submitting Form I-693, your green card application will be incomplete, and USCIS will not be able to make a decision on your case. Failing to meet the health standards can also result in a denial of your adjustment of status application.
Ensuring Full Compliance with USCIS
Filing Form I-693 is a step toward demonstrating full compliance with USCIS requirements. Incomplete or improperly filed forms can delay your application or lead to rejection. Therefore, it is important to follow all instructions carefully and ensure that you are submitting all required documentation.
In addition to the medical examination and vaccination records, applicants should ensure that the form is signed by the civil surgeon and submitted to USCIS in a timely manner. Failure to do so may delay your immigration process.
Alternatives to Form I-693
For Applicants Applying Abroad
If you are applying for a green card from outside the United States (such as through a U.S. consulate), you will undergo a medical examination as part of the immigrant visa process. The medical examination will be similar to Form I-693 but conducted by a physician approved by the U.S. embassy or consulate. The cost of this examination may differ from the fees charged by civil surgeons in the U.S., but it generally follows the same structure.
For Applicants Already in the U.S.
If you are adjusting your status in the U.S., you will be required to submit Form I-693. If you completed a medical examination as part of a previous immigration process, you may not need to submit Form I-693 again. However, this is rare, and applicants should confirm with USCIS whether they need to submit the form.
Conclusion
The total cost of Form I-693 primarily consists of the medical examination and vaccination fees, which can vary significantly depending on where you go for the examination and which vaccines are required. Applicants should be prepared for costs ranging from $150 to $800 or more, depending on their specific needs. Be sure to verify all costs with the civil surgeon and keep detailed records of payments for your application.
The medical examination and vaccination process is a necessary step in securing a green card and ensuring that you meet the health requirements for U.S. immigration. Although it may be an added expense to the application process, it is crucial for ensuring your eligibility for permanent residency in the United States.
As with all parts of the immigration process, it is important to carefully follow instructions and ensure that all forms and documents are submitted correctly. By understanding the costs and requirements of Form I-693, you can better prepare for the green card application process and increase your chances of success.
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