How to Prepare for Your Immigration Physical

Applying for immigration is an exciting step, but the paperwork can be overwhelming. A key part of this journey is your immigration physical. 

At Boulevard Medical HealthCare in the Bronx, New York City, we help make this process as smooth as possible. Our experienced team, led by internal medicine specialist Nirmala Tummalapenta, MD, performs these official exams and understands the strict rules and timelines you face. 

Preparing ahead of time helps you avoid delays and extra costs. Here’s what you need to know to get ready for your appointment.

Who can perform your immigration medical exam?

Only a designated civil surgeon can perform this mandatory evaluation. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that only those providers authorized by the USCIS  complete Form I-693, the required medical evaluation paperwork. 

If you use an unauthorized doctor, the government will reject the medical form. At Boulevard Medical Healthcare, we ensure that all your paperwork is completed accurately in accordance with federal guidelines. Rest assured, you are in capable hands with our team.

What documents do you need to bring?

You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID and any medical or vaccine records you have. If your records are not in English, you must prepare beforehand. The USCIS requires a certified English translation for any foreign-language documents.

By bringing these documents, you help us verify your identity and medical history. It also prevents you from getting vaccines you have already received.

Please bring the following items to our office:

• A valid passport or government-issued photo ID
• All prior immunization and vaccine records
• Certified English translations of any foreign records
• A list of your current medications

Which medical tests should you expect?

Your exam will include specific, age-based laboratory screenings for communicable diseases. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention requires a blood test for tuberculosis for all applicants aged 2 and older. This modern blood test is highly accurate and has replaced the older skin-prick tests.

We also perform other routine screenings required by federal guidelines, such as tests for syphilis and gonorrhea. If you lack childhood vaccination records, we can often perform blood tests to assess immunity. This can save you from receiving unnecessary shots.

How does the submission timeline work?

You must submit your completed medical form at the same time you file your green card application. The USCIS requires you to submit medical form I-693 with your I-485 application for lawful permanent resident status (green card).

Once we complete your exam, we give you the results in a sealed envelope. You must not open this envelope, or the government will reject it. Mail this sealed envelope with your green card application package.

Our team at Boulevard Medical HealthCare is here to guide you through every step of this process. We ensure your exam is thorough, accurate, and compliant with federal regulations. To get started, contact our team to schedule your immigration physical today.