The immigration medical exam (Form I-693) is a required step in many adjustment-of-status cases. It isn't a complicated procedure, but arriving prepared saves you extra trips, repeated costs and delays in your case. This guide explains what it includes, what to bring and what to expect.
What is the I-693 for?
USCIS requires this exam to confirm the applicant has no health conditions that would make them inadmissible — for example, certain contagious diseases or missing vaccines. It must be performed by a USCIS-authorized physician, known as a civil surgeon. If you're not sure what that is or how to verify one, we explain it in what a civil surgeon is and how to choose one.
What does the exam include?
- Review of your medical and vaccine history, including records from your home country
- General physical exam
- Tuberculosis test: depending on age, it's usually done with a blood test; if positive, an additional chest X-ray may be required
- Blood and urine tests for certain infections, based on the age ranges USCIS sets
- Administration of any missing vaccines
- Form I-693 completed, signed and sealed in the official envelope
At our clinic the lab is on site, so samples are taken during your same visit — no second location.
Which vaccines are required?
USCIS requires the vaccines recommended for your age and history — among them influenza (in season), tetanus-diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella, chickenpox and hepatitis B. You don't need to have them all before coming: the civil surgeon reviews your record and administers what's missing, in the same visit when possible. Bring your vaccination card if you have it; documented doses aren't repeated.
What should I bring on exam day?
- Official photo ID (passport, license or ID from your country)
- Your vaccine record or card, if you have it
- Relevant medical documents: medication list, history of any chronic condition, or recent results if available
- If you ever had tuberculosis or a positive TB test, any proof of treatment
No card or records? Come anyway — the exam can still be done; you may simply need more vaccines or tests.
How long does the whole process take?
The visit itself is short. Lab results can take a few days, and with them the doctor completes and seals the form. As soon as your envelope is ready, we let you know so you can pick it up.
Tips so nothing delays you
- Don't open the sealed envelope. An opened envelope can invalidate the form and you'd have to repeat the process. Ask for a separate copy for your records — we always provide one.
- Coordinate the exam with your attorney or your case dates, so you file it at the right time.
- Answer honestly about your history. Hiding information can complicate your case far more than any medical condition.
- Ask for the full cost upfront, lab and vaccines included, to avoid surprises.
Your I-693 exam in Houston, in Spanish
At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Hammerly we perform the complete exam with a USCIS-authorized physician: physical exam, on-site lab, vaccines and your form in a sealed envelope. We serve you in Spanish, with no appointment and no insurance needed, every day from 9 AM to 9 PM, at 8538 Hammerly Blvd Suite B, Houston, TX 77055 (Spring Branch). Call us at (832) 280-9555.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an appointment for the immigration exam? It's not required: we see patients first-come, first-served every day from 9 AM to 9 PM. If you prefer a set time, call us and we'll reserve it.
Does the I-693 expire? The validity rules for the I-693 have changed in recent years. Confirm the current policy with your immigration attorney or at uscis.gov before scheduling, so you file it at the right point in your case.
What if I have diabetes, high blood pressure or another chronic condition? A controlled condition generally doesn't keep you from passing the exam. The doctor notes it on the form along with your treatment. If you need to catch up on your care, we can also help with diabetes and hypertension management.
Do you do the exam for children? Yes — the I-693 is required for every applicant, including minors. Tests and vaccines vary by age.
