Recent ICE Raids and LA Protests: What You Need to Know About Immigration Medical Exams Amidst Rising Tensions

Recent ICE raids and protests in Los Angeles have heightened tensions within immigrant communities across the United States. These events have led to concern and uncertainty for individuals navigating the U.S. immigration system. In the face of increased enforcement actions, understanding the immigration process, especially the importance of the immigration medical exam, is important for all applicants. 

What Are Recent ICE Raids and LA Protests?

In June 2025, ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) conducted a series of high-profile immigration raids across Los Angeles, targeting businesses that employed undocumented workers. These raids led to over 100 arrests and sparked backlash from immigrant advocacy groups and local residents. The raids have contributed to heightened anxiety within immigrant communities, with many fearing deportation or disruption of their immigration processes.

In response to these raids, large-scale protests erupted in Los Angeles. Demonstrators voiced concerns over the methods used by ICE and the human impact of these actions. The protests reflect ongoing debates over immigration enforcement practices. 

Why Immigration Medical Exams Matter

Before you begin your immigration journey, it’s important to understand the significance of the medical exam and how it fits into the overall application process.

The Role of Immigration Medical Exams

An immigration medical exam is a critical requirement for most individuals applying for U.S. visas, green cards, or citizenship. The exam assesses whether the applicant meets the health-related eligibility criteria, ensuring they don’t pose a risk to public health. The exam includes evaluations for communicable diseases, mental health assessments, and vaccination history.

How the Medical Exam Links to Immigration Applications

• Visa Applications: A medical exam is required for many types of U.S. visa applications.
• Green Card Applications: All green card applicants must undergo this exam as part of the adjustment of status process.
• Citizenship Applications: In some cases, a medical exam may be necessary for U.S. citizenship applications, particularly for individuals aged 18 or older.

Given the heightened scrutiny surrounding immigration, it’s vital to ensure your immigration medical exam is completed accurately and without delays, as any errors could potentially cause complications in your immigration journey.

How Recent ICE Raids Impact Immigration Medical Exams

Recent ICE raids have created a sense of fear and uncertainty within immigrant communities, causing many individuals to hesitate or avoid completing their required immigration medical exams. This fear, especially among those in vulnerable situations, can lead to significant delays in the processing of visas, green cards, or citizenship applications. 

Some may worry that participating in any part of the immigration system could draw unwanted attention, even though the medical exam is a routine and essential step in the process. These anxieties often affect mental health as well, which is an important part of the exam. While these concerns are completely understandable, completing the medical exam carefully and accurately remains a crucial part of helping your immigration journey move forward without added stress or complications.

What You Need to Know About Scheduling Your Immigration Medical Exam

Steps to Schedule the Exam:

1. Find a USCIS-Approved Civil Surgeon: Only USCIS-approved civil surgeons are authorized to conduct immigration medical exams. Use the USCIS website or trusted resources to find a qualified professional in your area.
2. Verify the Civil Surgeon’s Credentials: It’s essential to ensure that the civil surgeon you choose is authorized by USCIS to conduct the exam. This step will ensure that your exam is legitimate and recognized for your immigration application.
3. Book Your Appointment Early: Due to increased demand and potential backlogs, it’s crucial to schedule your appointment as early as possible. Waiting too long could delay your application process.

Preparing for Your Immigration Medical Exam

• Gather Necessary Documentation: Bring identification, vaccination records, and medical history documentation to your appointment. This will help streamline the exam process and ensure all necessary information is accounted for.
• Vaccination Requirements: The exam will assess whether your vaccinations are up to date. If any vaccinations are missing, you may be asked to receive them during the exam or given instructions for completing them elsewhere.

What to Expect During the Exam

• Medical History Review: The civil surgeon will conduct a review of your health history, including any past illnesses, surgeries, and vaccinations.
• Physical Examination: A general physical exam will be conducted to check for any signs of communicable diseases or conditions that could affect your eligibility for immigration benefits.
• Mental Health Evaluation: Mental health is an important factor in the immigration medical exam. If you have a history of mental health issues, it is important to disclose this information. The civil surgeon will assess whether your mental health poses any concerns regarding public safety or your ability to contribute to society.

Conclusion

Recent ICE activity and related demonstrations in Los Angeles have drawn attention to the challenges many immigrant communities face when navigating the U.S. immigration system. During times of uncertainty, staying informed and taking proactive steps can help prevent unnecessary delays in your application process. 

Schedule an appointment with our expert & experienced civil surgeon, Dr. Steven Wittenberg Gordon to make the immigration medical exam process clear, efficient, and stress-free.