The new rules state that for any immigration medicals completed on or after May 1, 2024, a Polio booster (IPV) is required for all applicants aged 2 months and older, including all adults, unless proper documentation is provided of previous primary vaccination.
An Immigration Medical Exam (IME) is necessary for those looking to move to the United States. Its purpose is to safeguard the health of both immigrants and Americans. This examination is intended to detect any medical conditions that could endanger public health.
The IME is carried out by accredited civil surgeons or panel physicians, as permitted by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These healthcare providers adhere to a set protocol to guarantee uniformity in the examination procedure.
While IMEs generally include physical examinations, tuberculosis tests, and vaccination reviews, certain applicants (see below) may require vaccine-only service to ensure they have the necessary vaccinations to protect themselves and the communities they will be joining.
Not all applicants are eligible for this abbreviated service, and applicants should check with their immigration attorneys or directly with USCIS to confirm eligibility. The Civil Surgeon cannot and will not determine eligibility.
Form I-693 is a crucial requirement imposed by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services for specific applicants during the immigration process. This form confirms the involvement of a designated doctor or civil surgeon in disclosing the applicant's health status. The information provided in this form aids USCIS in assessing the applicant's eligibility for a green card.
The Form I-693 medical examination and vaccination record report also directs applicants to receive vaccine-only service if they previously completed an overseas immigration medical exam conducted by a panel physician or civil surgeon.
According to the immigration regulations of the United States, individuals who are not citizens and are applying for an immigrant visa outside the country or those who are seeking to change their status to that of a lawful permanent resident while already in the United States must receive one or more of the following vaccinations to protect them against the related diseases, depending upon their ages and review of any records of prior vaccination:
A civil surgeon offers a vaccination-only service for individuals requiring only vaccines for immigration purposes. As designated by the USCIS, civil surgeons are authorized to administer and authorize vaccinations required for green card applications and other immigration-related processes. From COVID-19 vaccines to tetanus shots, civil surgeons ensure that applicants are up to date on all necessary vaccinations, helping them navigate the complex immigration system with ease and peace of mind.
According to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 207, refugees applying for adjustment of status in the United States may be eligible for the vaccine-only service. Additionally, nonimmigrant visa holders are eligible, including:
Again, not all applicants are eligible for this abbreviated service, and applicants should check with their immigration attorneys or directly with USCIS to confirm eligibility. The Civil Surgeon cannot and will not determine eligibility.
Vaccine-only service offers several benefits, including:
Check the official website of the local health department or USCIS to find authorized physicians or civil surgeons offering vaccination-only services. Make sure to have your government-issued ID card, and vaccination records available.
The vast majority of Civil Surgeons do not offer vaccination only services. In fact, in the Kansas City area, Dr. Gordon’s office may be the only one doing so. If you are looking for a reliable and experienced civil surgeon for vaccine-only services, look no further than Dr. Steven Wittenberg Gordon. With over two decades of experience in performing immigration medical exams, Dr. Gordon is dedicated to providing top-notch care for applicants seeking vaccine-only service.
Dr. Gordon offers a comprehensive vaccine-only service that ensures your health and safety at a competitive price of $300 (+ the cost of vaccinations). Contact us today to get started. Dr. Gordon will review any records of prior vaccinations and provide written orders for any vaccinations needed. Applicants may obtain any required vaccinations from their favorite pharmacy, personal doctor, clinic, or local health department. This information is exchanged via email--no need to see the doctor!
Applicants need only one brief office visit to sign and be issued their paperwork when it is ready. Barring something unforeseen, conscientious and motivated applicants may expect their paperwork to be ready the same day or next business day.
