Applicants filing Form I-485 to apply for adjustment of status need to undergo an immigration medical examination, complete all necessary vaccinations, and submit a properly filled-out Form I-693, signed by a civil surgeon, to demonstrate they do not have health conditions that would make them inadmissible based on health-related grounds.
Previously, applicants were not required to submit I-693 medical examinations with the initial I-485 application. Due to long processing times and the validity term of a completed I-693, we advised some applicants to delay filing the I-693, typically in response to a Request for Evidence (RFE) or during the I-485 interview.
USCIS has updated its filing guidance to require submission of the I-693 medical examination with the initial I-485 application.
Form I-693 is valid indefinitely if signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023. If signed before November 1, 2023, the form retains its evidentiary value for 2 years from the date of the civil surgeon’s signature.
This change aims to reduce the number of Requests for Evidence issued before USCIS can adjudicate a Form I-485.
For more information, please contact your Meltzer Hellrung attorney.