I-693 Medical Exam for a Green Card

June 17, 2026

¿Quién puede hacer el examen médico I-693 para residencia?

If you are applying for permanent residency in the United States, the immigration medical exam is an important step. But there is one detail many people do not know: not every doctor can complete your Form I-693 for USCIS purposes.

This mistake can cause delays, confusion, or even require you to repeat part of the process. That is why, before scheduling your appointment, it is important to make sure your exam is completed by a doctor authorized by USCIS.

What Is Form I-693?

Form I-693, officially called the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is used to document the results of your immigration medical exam and vaccination history when applying for certain immigration benefits, such as adjustment of status for permanent residency.

This exam does not approve or deny your green card. Its purpose is to document the medical information required by USCIS. The final decision on your immigration case is made by USCIS, not by the doctor.

Can Any Doctor Perform the I-693 Medical Exam?

No. For Form I-693 to be accepted, the exam must be completed by a doctor authorized by USCIS.

The official term USCIS uses is civil surgeon, but in simple words: this is a physician designated to perform immigration medical exams inside the United States.

This means it is not enough to visit any clinic or any general doctor. Even if a doctor has an active medical license, they must be authorized by USCIS to properly complete this process.

Why Is It So Important to See the Right Doctor?

Because Form I-693 must meet specific requirements. The authorized doctor must complete the evaluation, review your vaccination history, order or review any required tests, complete the form correctly, and provide it according to USCIS instructions.

If the exam is completed by someone who is not authorized, USCIS may not accept the form. That can delay your case and may require you to correct or repeat the exam.

In a process this important for you and your family, avoiding mistakes from the beginning can give you more peace of mind.

What Does the Immigration Medical Exam Include?

The exam may include a general medical review, health history, vaccination review based on your age and condition, and certain tests required by official guidelines.

Not every patient needs the exact same thing. That is why it is important for the doctor to review your case individually and explain what applies to you.

If you have vaccination records, previous medical results, or documents related to your immigration process, it is recommended that you bring them to your appointment so the doctor can guide you more clearly.

What Happens After the Exam?

After completing the evaluation and any necessary requirements, the authorized doctor completes Form I-693. This document is placed in a sealed envelope for USCIS.

It is very important that you do not open that envelope. If it is opened before being submitted, USCIS may not accept it.

At Gabriel Medical Center, our goal is to guide you step by step so you understand what to bring, what will be reviewed, and how to move forward with clarity.

How to Avoid Mistakes Before Your Appointment

Before scheduling your immigration medical exam, confirm that the doctor is authorized by USCIS to complete Form I-693.

It is also recommended that you prepare:

    • A valid form of identification.

    • Vaccination records, if you have them.

    • Documents related to your immigration process, if applicable.

    • Important medical information the doctor should know.

If you are not sure what to bring or have questions about your vaccines, it is best to contact the clinic before your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About the I-693 Medical Exam

Who can complete Form I-693?

Form I-693 must be completed by a doctor authorized by USCIS. The official term is civil surgeon, but for patients, it means a doctor approved to perform immigration medical exams.

Does the I-693 medical exam guarantee my green card approval?

No. The medical exam is a required part of the process, but it does not guarantee approval of your green card. USCIS makes the final decision on your case.

Can I complete my immigration medical exam in Spanish?

Yes. At Gabriel Medical Center, we serve Latino patients in Los Angeles and explain the process in Spanish so you can move forward with more clarity and confidence.

What happens if my exam is completed by a doctor who is not authorized?

Your Form I-693 may not be accepted, which can cause delays or require you to repeat the exam with an authorized doctor.

Do I need to bring my vaccination records?

If you have vaccination records, bring them to your appointment. The doctor will review your history and guide you based on the requirements that apply to your case.

Schedule Your Immigration Medical Exam in Los Angeles

If you are applying for residency and need your I-693 medical exam in Los Angeles, Gabriel Medical Center can guide you through the process step by step.

Here, we speak your language, understand how important this process is for you and your family, and explain everything clearly from the very beginning.

Schedule your appointment with Gabriel Medical Center and receive personalized guidance for your immigration medical exam.

Make Appointment

We want to care for you the way you deserve. Please fill out the form, and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible to confirm your appointment. At Gabriel Medical Center, your health is our priority.