On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form I-693?)
- Context and workflow
- Failure prevention (What causes Form I-693 rejections?)
- What it asks for (What does Form I-693 ask for?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form I-693?)
- Checklist (What is the Form I-693 checklist?)
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form I-693 have?)
- Strategy tips
- Common mistakes (What mistakes are common with Form I-693?)
- Examples (What are examples for Form I-693?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-693?)
- Edge cases and variations
- Scenarios
- Key differentiators
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Quick summary
#The following aliens applying for adjustment of status must submit a partial Form I-693 (Parts ) Applicant completed vaccination requirements or may be eligible for blanket waivers as indicated above, as described in the Form DS-3035 guide, as described in the Form I-129 guide.
IR-1: IR-1 Immigrant Visa (Spouse of US Citizen)
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form I-693?)
#Form I-693 plays a vital role in ensuring that applicants meet the health standards necessary for lawful permanent residence in the United States, as described in the Application to Register Permanent Residence or guide. This form is used to report the results of a medical examination and vaccination record, which must be completed by a designated civil surgeon.
Most applicants filing for adjustment of status, as well as certain other applicants, are required to submit Form I-693 to demonstrate compliance with health-related standards set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The form includes a vaccination assessment, and applicants may need to provide documentation of vaccinations, such as the COVID-19 vaccine, to the civil surgeon.
First page of I-693 form
Source: I-693 PDF
Context and workflow
#Receipt Notice (a related form) confirming submission.
Why this matters
- Inconsistencies often trigger returns or follow-up requests because they create uncertainty in the case record.
- This form helps confirm that the application matches the program’s requirements and checklist.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Processing time for I-693 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official USCIS processing time tool.
- Supporting document for adjustment of status applications.
- Part of the evidence required for family-based immigration processes.
- Typically submitted along with other forms for adjustment of status.
- I-693 is commonly filed alongside Form I-485.
Who uses it
Certain aliens applying for adjustment of status may need to submit a partial Form I-693. This includes applicants who have completed vaccination requirements or may qualify for blanket waivers as specified.
When it is used
- IR-1: IR-1 Immigrant Visa (Spouse of US Citizen)
- CR-1: CR-1 Conditional Resident Visa (Spouse)
- EB-1: EB-1 Employment-Based First Preference
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Failure prevention (What causes Form I-693 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Submitting the form without a valid signature.
- Providing the form in an unsealed or altered envelope.
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Using a non-designated civil surgeon.
What it asks for (What does Form I-693 ask for?)
#- Medical examination results
- Vaccination records
- Medical history and current health conditions
- Applicant identification information
- Supporting documentation inventory
- Eligibility or purpose details
- Declarations and signatures
- Applicants who require a vaccination assessment must submit Part 10 along with Parts 1-5 and Part 7 of Form I-693.
- The certification must include the translator’s signature, printed name, the signature date, and the translator’s contact information
- Finally, you must require the applicant to sign the Applicant’s Certification in Part 2
- Form I-693 Instructions 01/20/25 Page 6 of 12 For health departments performing the vaccination assessment for refugee adjustment applicants ONLY: You must complete Part 7
- The original or stamped signature of the physician on staff at the health department must be present in Part 7
What you need (What do you need for Form I-693?)
#- A copy of the vaccination record must be given to the applicant.
- The current edition of I-693
- Valid government-issued identification
- Filing fee or fee waiver documentation
- A completed Form I-693 in a sealed envelope from a designated civil surgeon.
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Checklist (What is the Form I-693 checklist?)
#- Download the current I-693 and instructions from the official USCIS website
- Review the official I-693 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of I-693
- Confirm photos are unmounted and unretouched per USCIS specifications
- Ensure that Form I-693 is signed and dated appropriately, and submit it along with all necessary supporting documentation.
Where to file
#Online filing is available for some categories — verify on the official form page. Otherwise, file by mail to the address in the instructions.
Submit application
Form I-693 by mail with your Form I-485, to the location specified for your Form I-485 (see the Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-485)
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official USCIS website before submitting. For related guidance, see IR-1 Immigrant Visa (Spouse of US.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form i-693. Check the current fee on the official USCIS fee schedule. | See official schedule |
| Biometrics Services FeeA biometrics fee may be required depending on your category. Check the official fee schedule. | See official schedule |
Can the Form I-693 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
USCIS will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Application for Asylum and for Withholding.
Fees change; always verify on USCIS.
Form sections (What sections does Form I-693 have?)
#Part 8. Civil Surgeon Worksheet and Part
Complete this section as described in the official instructions.
- Submitting Form I-693 without a valid signature.
- Submitting Form I-693 in an unsealed or altered envelope.
- Failing to bring valid photo identification to the medical examination.
- USCIS verifies this section.
Part 8. Civil Surgeon Worksheet , Item Number
Complete this section as described in the official instructions.
- Submitting Form I-693 without a valid signature.
- Submitting Form I-693 in an unsealed or altered envelope.
- Failing to bring valid photo identification to the medical examination.
- USCIS verifies this section.
Part 11. Additional Information
Complete this section as described in the official instructions.
- Submitting Form I-693 without a valid signature.
- Submitting Form I-693 in an unsealed or altered envelope.
- Failing to bring valid photo identification to the medical examination.
- USCIS verifies this section.
Strategy tips
#Common mistakes (What mistakes are common with Form I-693?)
#- Submitting Form I-693 without a valid signature.
- Submitting Form I-693 in an envelope that is either unsealed or has been altered.
- Neglecting to present valid photo identification during the medical examination.
- Not completing the vaccination requirements.
- Using a non-designated civil surgeon for the medical examination.
Examples (What are examples for Form I-693?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
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Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-693?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Requirements may differ based on your specific situation
- Some applicants assume that any doctor can complete the medical examination for Form I-693, but it must be done by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon.
Edge cases and variations
#- If you are asked to submit or update I-693, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
Scenarios
#A software engineer submitted their petition with all supporting documents
The case was approved within the standard timeline
Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays
Key differentiators
#- Unlike Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: Filed together: Medical exam required for adjustment of status
- Unlike Form I-589: Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal: Next step after approval: Required if asylum is granted and adjusting status (Medical pathway)
Why it matters
#Form I-693 must be submitted in a sealed envelope.
Why it matters: USCIS will return the form if it is not sealed, causing delays.
Only designated civil surgeons can perform the medical examination.
Why it matters: Using a non-designated surgeon will result in rejection of the form.
Vaccination requirements must be met even if a new medical examination is not required.
Why it matters: Failure to comply with vaccination requirements can lead to inadmissibility.
Vaccination records must be reviewed by the civil surgeon.
Why it matters: Incomplete vaccination records can delay the adjustment of status process.
Next steps
#- Receipt Notice (a related form) confirming submission.
- Review of the medical examination by USCIS.
- Notification of any additional information required.
- Decision on the adjustment of status application.
- If approved, proceed to card production and delivery by mail.
Verification
#This guide is derived from official USCIS instructions for I-693 and is updated when form editions or filing rules change. Always verify current requirements at the official USCIS website.
FAQs
At what point in the immigration process is Form I-693 typically filed?
Consult the official I-693 instructions for detailed guidance tailored to your specific immigration category and circumstances.
Is it necessary to submit Form I-693 if I have already had a medical examination overseas?
If you had a medical examination overseas by a panel physician, you might not need to submit Form I-693, depending on your immigration category and timing.
What is I-693?
I-693 is the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, an official USCIS form. Review the official instructions to determine if it applies to your situation.
What does I-693 do and who needs it?
Form I-693 plays a crucial role in the immigration process as it is used to report the results of a medical examination and vaccination record. This form, completed by a designated civil surgeon, ensures applicants meet the health-related standards set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The necessity of submitting Form I-693 depends on various factors, including your visa category, nationality, and personal circumstances. It is essential to consult the official USCIS website to verify the latest eligibility criteria and requirements specific to your situation.
When will I-693 be processed and what is the workflow?
Processing timing for I-693 varies depending on the filing category, processing location, and current application volume. Standard processing can range from a few weeks to several months. Before submitting, check the official USCIS processing times tool for the most current estimates. After filing, monitor your case status and consider whether expedited options are available.
What are common mistakes when filing I-693?
Common mistakes include submitting incomplete forms, missing required signatures, paying incorrect fees, and failing to include all required supporting documents. Even minor errors can cause significant delays or outright rejection of your application. Double-check every section, verify fee amounts on the official USCIS schedule, and review the instructions thoroughly before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. Use Find My Visa to get a personalized checklist with official sources and deadlines.
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