What Happens During an Immigration Physical Exam?

Immigrating to the United States involves many steps—and one of the most important is completing the Immigration Physical. If you're applying for a green card or permanent residency, you’ll need a medical exam from a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon. But what exactly happens during this physical exam? What should you bring, and how can you prepare?

In this detailed guide, Lenoy Medical Spa breaks down everything you need to know about the Immigration Physical, including what to expect before, during, and after the visit.

✅ Why Is an Immigration Physical Required?

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires a medical exam to ensure that applicants do not have any health conditions that would make them inadmissible under public health grounds. These include:

• Communicable diseases of public health significance

• Lack of required vaccinations

• Physical or mental disorders with harmful behaviors

• Drug abuse or addiction

The results of your immigration physical are submitted using Form I-693, which becomes part of your green card application.

✅ Who Can Perform an Immigration Physical?

Only USCIS-designated civil surgeons can perform this examination. At Lenoy Medical Spa, we have certified professionals who are authorized to conduct immigration physicals in accordance with federal regulations and medical guidelines.

If you’re in New Jersey, especially near Belleville, Metuchen, or Elizabeth, our clinic provides convenient and compliant exam services.

✅ What to Bring to Your Immigration Physical Appointment

To ensure a smooth visit, you should bring the following:

• Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or state ID)

• Form I-693 (downloaded from the USCIS website)

• Vaccination records

• Medical history documents, including records of chronic conditions

• Eyeglasses or hearing aids, if applicable

• Payment method (insurance typically does not cover this exam)

Having all documentation ready helps avoid delays in your immigration physical process.

✅ Step-by-Step: What Happens During the Immigration Physical

Here’s a breakdown of the key components of your Immigration Physical at Lenoy Medical Spa:

1. Identity Verification and Intake

Our front desk staff will check your ID and review your documents. You'll fill out basic health forms and present your vaccination records.

2. Medical History Review

The civil surgeon will go through your medical history, asking questions about past surgeries, hospitalizations, chronic conditions, and any medications you're currently taking.

3. Vaccination Record Evaluation

Your immunization history will be reviewed to ensure it meets the vaccination requirements set by USCIS. These typically include:

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

• Tetanus and Diphtheria

• Influenza (seasonal)

• Hepatitis A and B

• Varicella (chickenpox)

If you're missing any vaccines, we can administer them during your visit.

4. Physical Examination

The doctor will perform a general health check, including:

• Heart and lung function

• Blood pressure and pulse

• Abdomen and lymph nodes

• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat

• Neurological exam (reflexes, coordination)

This step ensures there are no current medical conditions that could impact your admissibility.

5. Tuberculosis (TB) Testing

For applicants over age 2, a TB blood test (IGRA) is required. It checks for latent or active tuberculosis infection. The results typically take a few days.

6. Blood and Urine Tests

Applicants aged 15 and older will undergo:

• Blood test for syphilis

• Urine test for gonorrhea

All results are confidential and will be included in your I-693 form.

✅ What Happens After the Exam?

Once all test results are in and you've completed the necessary vaccinations, your civil surgeon will:

• Complete and sign Form I-693

• Seal the form in an official envelope (do not open it)

• Provide you a copy for your personal records

You must submit this sealed envelope to USCIS as part of your green card application.

✅ Common Questions About the Immigration Physical

❓How long does the exam take?

The in-clinic part usually takes 30–60 minutes. However, test results may take a few days.

❓Can I fail the immigration physical?

You can be found inadmissible if you have a communicable disease, drug addiction, or refuse required vaccines. However, many conditions can be treated or waived.

❓What if I don’t have vaccination records?

You may receive blood tests (titers) to prove immunity, or you can receive the required vaccines during your visit.

✅ Why Choose Lenoy Medical Spa for Your Immigration Physical in New Jersey?

Lenoy Medical Spa offers:

• USCIS-certified civil surgeons

• Same-day appointments available

• Vaccinations administered on-site

• Support in multiple languages

• Convenient locations in Belleville, Metuchen, and Elizabeth

We ensure that every step of your Immigration Physical is clear, stress-free, and fully compliant with USCIS standards.

✅ Final Thoughts

An immigration physical is more than just a routine check-up—it's a vital step on your journey to becoming a lawful permanent resident in the United States. At Lenoy Medical Spa, we’re committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and compliant medical exams for immigration applicants across New Jersey.

Whether you're located in Belleville, Elizabeth, or Metuchen, our experienced team is ready to assist you every step of the way.