To become a permanent resident of the United States, a medical exam is required. This part of the citizenship process is meant to protect public safety, and certain diseases could make an individual inadmissible to the country.
If you intend to become a citizen of the United States, you may have questions about the immigration medical exam. We are here to help. In this article you will find important information about the exam, what to expect, and what to bring with you.
Finding A Doctor
An immigration medical exam must be performed by a government-approved doctor. You will receive a list of approved physicians during your green card application process. You can select one of these doctors and will be told when to schedule your immigration medical exam. Your medical exam, and any necessary vaccinations, will need to be completed before you can schedule your green card interview.
The Exam
At your immigration medical exam, the doctor will ask you about your medical history. This can include questions about hospital stays, institutionalization, and disabilities. You may also be asked questions about drug use.
The next part of the exam is a physical examination of your body. The physicians will check all parts of your body including but not limited to your eyes, heart, skin, ears, nose, and lungs. X-rays and blood tests are also common procedures as part of this exam.
Your doctor will also evaluate your mental health. With specific questions and assessments, the doctor will try to determine if you have any mental disorders that could lead to harmful behaviors.
Vaccinations
The government-approved doctor will check your vaccination records and make sure you obtain any necessary new vaccinations to obtain your green card. If you do not already have them, you will need to get vaccinated for polio, tetanus, mumps, measles, and rubella in addition to other public risk diseases.
Don’t Forget
You may not have known this but there are a few things you will need to bring with you to your immigration medical exam. Make sure you do not forget a government-issued photo ID, record of vaccinations, list of medications, and a method of payment for the visit fee. Be sure to check with your specific physician to make sure you do not need any additional forms or items.
Next Step
After your immigration medical exam is complete, the doctor will either send the results directly to the United States embassy or give it to you in a sealed envelope. This medical exam and its results are required by the government prior to approving a green card application.
We hope that this information was helpful to you in your journey to citizenship. Good luck with your immigration medical exam and the green card process.
