The USCIS has revised its policy regarding Form I-693, constraining its validity to ongoing immigration applications. This will affect green card seekers and others modifying their status within the U.S. Discover who is required to provide this form, its intended use, and the ramifications of this update on your immigration journey.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a significant policy shift impacting green card applicants and others who are adjusting their status in the United States. Moving forward, the legitimacy of Form I-693, which is utilized for immigration health examinations, will be exclusively associated with active applications.
This new directive is effective immediately for all applications that are currently pending or submitted on or after June 11, 2025.
Medical Exams No Longer Valid After Denial or Withdrawal
Under this new directive, any Form I-693 validated by a civil surgeon designated by USCIS on or after November 1, 2023, will be considered valid solely while the associated immigration application remains in process. Should that application be withdrawn or refused, the Form I-693 becomes invalid, irrespective of its age.
This reverses a prior policy which, effective from April 2024, permitted Form I-693 to remain valid indefinitely for subsequent immigration benefit applications.
Form I-693 Validity: Summary of Key Alterations
| Policy Aspect | Previous Rule (April 2024) | Current Rule (June 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration of Validity | Indefinite (if signed after Nov 1, 2023) | Valid only while application is in progress |
| In Case of Denial/Withdrawal | Re-use of Form I-693 permitted for future applications | A new Form I-693 must be submitted |
| Main Objective | Flexibility for applicants | Ensures current medical evaluations for public health |
Understanding Form I-693 and Its Necessity
Form I-693 is an essential medical assessment mandated by USCIS for most applicants seeking adjustment of status to permanent residency (Green Card) within the U.S. The primary goal of this form is to:
- Verify that the applicant is admissible on public health grounds
- Confirm that all required vaccinations have been administered
- Conduct screenings for infectious diseases, mental health issues, and substance abuse
Typically, Form I-485 applicants, individuals pursuing lawful permanent residency, are obligated to submit a completed Form I-693 evaluated by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon.
In certain instances, USCIS might also mandate Form I-693 in discretionary situations, even when the applicant isn’t automatically subjected to a medical examination, particularly if there is a potential public health risk.
Reasons for the Update? Public Health Takes Precedence
The April 2024 guideline allowed a Form I-693 signed post-November 1, 2023, to be utilized indefinitely, even for subsequent immigration petitions. USCIS has since concluded that this strategy was overly extensive and had the potential to jeopardize public health by depending on outdated medical information.
By restricting the validity of the form to solely reflect the current immigration application, the agency’s goal is to:
- Guarantee contemporary health evaluations
- Avert the use of outdated medical records in future immigration matters
- Enhance public health safeguards for the U.S. populace
Essential Insights for Applicants
- Date of New Rule: This is applicable to all filings that are pending or submitted on or after June 11, 2025.
- Signed After Nov. 1, 2023? It remains valid only as long as your immigration proceedings are active.
- Was Your Application Denied or Withdrawn? A new I-693 will be required upon reapplication.
- Prevent Delays: Ensure the latest Form I-693 is submitted with your Form I-485 to eliminate processing delays.
Considering an Adjustment of Status in the U.S.?
If you are currently in the U.S. on a visa and are intending to apply for a green card:
- Arrange your immigration health exam close to your Form I-485 submission date
- Choose only USCIS-approved civil surgeons
- Confirm that your Form I-693 is completed and sealed correctly prior to submission
Always refer to the official USCIS guidelines for the most recent updates prior to submission.
Conclusion
This revised USCIS policy serves as a critical reminder that the health requirements for immigration are not solely bureaucratic; they are fundamentally connected to public health. Immigrants and travelers aiming for permanent residency must ensure their Form I-693 is not only accurately completed but also timely and consistent with the status of their application.
To facilitate a smoother immigration experience, it is advisable to be aware of these new timelines, stay updated with USCIS announcements, and seek guidance from a qualified immigration attorney as needed.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
