Effective Jan. 22, 2025, USCIS is waiving any and all requirements that applicants receive the COVID-19 vaccination.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has removed the 60-day requirement for the submission of Form I-693, otherwise known as the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This change offers more flexibility to applicants of immigration benefits, such as adjustment of status through Form I-485, as they no longer need to submit their Form I-693 within 60 days of completion.
However, the immigration process can still be complex, and it is essential to seek guidance from an experienced immigration attorney or accredited representative. Let’s discuss the previous requirement to understand the latest procedure better.
The 60-day requirement for submitting Form I-693 was originally introduced to ensure that the medical examination results were current at adjudication (the process of formal judgement). However, this created difficulties for some applicants who needed help to schedule a timely appointment with a civil surgeon and incurred additional costs if they had to reschedule. The recent removal of the requirement provides more flexibility to applicants in scheduling their medical examinations and submitting Form I-693, which can alleviate some of the difficulties and financial burdens previously faced.
Temporary Waiver The USCIS temporarily waived the 60-day requirement for submitting medical examinations for specific immigration applicants in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the pandemic-related restrictions and limitations made it harder for applicants to schedule appointments and visit medical facilities, leading to additional, significant challenges in obtaining their medical examinations within the required timeframe. The need for more medical supplies and equipment also added to the struggles applicants face. While the temporary waiver provided some relief, the pandemic-related disruptions posed significant challenges for many applicants.
Eliminating the 60-day requirement for submitting medical examinations benefits immigration applicants by reducing stress and offering flexibility. It eliminates the need to rush and reduces the financial burdens of rescheduling or redoing exams. It can also help USCIS adjudicators process applications faster, essentially benefiting both parties.
Overall, this is a crucial step towards improving the immigration process, making the opportunity more accessible and fair to all applicants.
Form I-693 is required for certain immigration applications and is valid for two years from the civil surgeon's signature date. Applicants should undergo the medical examination and obtain a signed Form I-693 before filing their application to ensure that the examination results and vaccination records are current and valid.
Receiving an early examination can also provide additional time to address any medical issues, ensuring a complete and accurate application.
Looking for the latest updates on USCIS's medical examination requirements? Look no further than Dr. Steven Wittenberg Gordon, MD, the trusted USCIS civil surgeon in Overland Park, KS. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Gordon is well-versed in immigration medical exams, including various developments such as the latest changes eliminating the 60-day requirement. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with our immigration doctor to establish your immigration journey as smooth and stress-free.
