Securing a green card is one of the most important milestones in the U.S. immigration journey. It allows you to live and work permanently in the United States and provides a pathway to citizenship. However, the process involves meeting certain requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), including the green card medical exam, also known as the I-693 immigration physical.
If you are scheduling your exam in Katy, TX, it’s natural to have questions. What exactly happens during the appointment? How much does it cost? And how do you prepare to make sure everything goes smoothly? This guide breaks down the requirements, costs, and preparation tips so you can feel confident about your exam and avoid unnecessary delays.
What Is the Green Card Medical Exam?
The green card medical exam is a health screening performed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. Its purpose is to ensure that applicants do not have medical conditions that would make them inadmissible to the United States. The exam is required for most green card applicants, including family-based, employment-based, and humanitarian cases.
Your results are recorded on Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, which is sealed and submitted to USCIS as part of your application.
Why Is the Exam Required?
The U.S. government requires the exam for several important reasons:
- Public health protection: To prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
- Verification of vaccinations: To confirm that applicants meet immunization requirements.
- Screening for medical conditions: To ensure no physical or mental health issues pose a risk to others.
- Compliance with immigration law: To document eligibility for lawful permanent residency.
Even if you feel perfectly healthy, this exam is a mandatory step in the green card process.
Requirements for the Green Card Medical Exam
Your exam will include several components:
1. Review of Medical History
The civil surgeon will ask about your past illnesses, surgeries, medications, and family health history. This helps identify risk factors and ensures USCIS receives accurate documentation.
2. Physical Examination
A thorough physical exam is performed to check overall health. This may include measuring blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight, and a full body assessment.
3. Vaccination Verification
USCIS requires proof of specific vaccines. Commonly required immunizations include:
- Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids
- Pertussis
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Influenza (during flu season)
If your records are incomplete, the civil surgeon may administer missing vaccines during your appointment.
4. Laboratory Tests
Blood tests are performed to check for communicable diseases such as syphilis and gonorrhea. Applicants over two years old are also screened for tuberculosis (TB), usually starting with a skin or blood test.
5. Mental Health and Substance Use Evaluation
The civil surgeon will ask about mental health conditions and substance use history. This is to confirm you do not pose a danger to yourself or others.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Preparation is key to making the exam smooth and stress-free. Here are steps to follow before your green card medical exam in Katy:
- Bring valid identification: Passport, driver’s license, or government-issued ID.
- Collect vaccination records: Ask your doctor or health department for a copy of your immunization history.
- List current medications: Include names, dosages, and prescribing doctors.
- Carry medical records: If you have chronic conditions or previous surgeries, bring relevant documentation.
- Follow instructions: Some tests may require fasting — confirm with the clinic before your visit.
- Bring payment: Exam fees are due at the time of service.
Being well-prepared reduces the chance of repeat visits and ensures that Form I-693 is completed correctly the first time.
Costs of a Green Card Medical Exam in Katy
The cost of the exam is not set by USCIS, so it varies by provider. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500. The total depends on:
- The clinic’s base fee for the exam.
- Whether you need additional vaccines.
- Any follow-up lab testing required.
While the exam is a significant expense, it is a necessary investment in your immigration process. Choosing a USCIS-approved doctor ensures the paperwork is valid and prevents costly delays later.
How Long the Exam Takes
Most exams last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many vaccines or lab tests are needed. If TB screening is required, you may need to return within a few days for a follow-up. Once complete, the civil surgeon fills out Form I-693, seals it, and gives it to you for submission. Remember — USCIS requires that you do not open this envelope.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants sometimes face delays because of avoidable errors. Here are some common mistakes:
- Forgetting to bring vaccination records.
- Scheduling with a doctor who is not USCIS-certified.
- Arriving without proper identification.
- Failing to follow instructions for lab tests.
Avoiding these mistakes saves time and prevents your application from being rejected or delayed.
Choosing a Local USCIS Doctor in Katy
If you’re searching for a green card medical exam near me, choosing a local provider offers several benefits:
- Convenience: Shorter travel times and easier scheduling.
- Follow-up care: If you need additional tests or vaccines, local providers are easier to access.
- Experience with USCIS standards: Certified doctors in Katy are familiar with immigration requirements and paperwork.
- Peace of mind: Local providers can answer your questions and support you through the process.
Final Thoughts
The green card medical exam in Katy is one of the most important steps in the immigration process. By understanding the requirements, preparing documents in advance, and budgeting for the costs, you can complete the exam with confidence.
Working with a local, USCIS-certified civil surgeon ensures that your Form I-693 is filled out accurately and accepted by USCIS. Taking the time to prepare properly allows you to avoid delays and move one step closer to achieving permanent residency in the United States.
If you’re ready to begin, schedule your exam early at Macie Medical in Katy, Tx so you have plenty of time to complete the process before submitting your application. We also offer cash pay.
