What is an immigration physical?
Newcomers to the U.S. are required to take certain steps by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to become lawful permanent residents. An immigration physical is one of those steps. An immigration physical is a medical exam performed by a doctor. Nashville Family Medical Clinic offers translators if you need language assistance during your immigration physical.
What should I bring to an immigration physical?
You’ll need to bring the following items to your medical exam:
- A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or valid passport
- Form I-693, which is known as the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record
- Government-issued photo ID, such as a valid passport or driver’s license.
- Your record of vaccinations
If the physical is for a child who is age 14 or younger, bring his or her identification. The ID should include their name, date, and place of birth, and a parent’s full name. Acceptable forms of ID include an affidavit or birth certificate (with an English translation).
What happens during an immigration physical?
An immigration physical includes a comprehensive physical exam and review of your medical history. Though the exam varies depending on your age, you should expect a skin test or chest X-ray examination to look for signs of tuberculosis. You may also need a blood test.
A mental health evaluation is part of the exam. You’ll be asked about your current and past behaviors and mental health condition.
U.S. immigration laws also require you to be assessed for a range of diseases that are easily spread. These include:
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Polio
- Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids
- Pertussis
- Haemophilus influenzae type B
- Hepatitis B
That’s why it’s important to bring your immunization record, if you have one, to your appointment with Nashville Family Medical Clinic.
What should I expect after my immigration physical?
Your I-693 form will be completed if you pass the exam. You’ll need to send this form to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. It’s also a good idea to make a copy of the form for your records.
If you’re new to the U.S. and interested in applying for permanent legal status, call or schedule a consultation online today with Nashville Family Medical Clinic, and take an important step in applying for a green card.
