If you're in the process of applying for permanent residence (a green card) in the United States, one of the required steps is a immigration medical examination completed by a USCIS-authorized physician known as a Civil Surgeon. This exam is documented on USCIS Form I-693 and must be submitted as part of your immigration application.
Dr. Huma Irshad at Med Care PC in Danbury, CT is a USCIS-certified Civil Surgeon authorized to perform immigration medical exams for patients throughout Fairfield County, Connecticut.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from what the exam covers to what documents to bring and how the sealed envelope process works.
✅ Dr. Huma Irshad at Med Care PC is a USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon authorized to perform immigration medical examinations and complete Form I-693. Call (203) 816-2255 or book online to schedule.
What Is a USCIS Immigration Medical Exam?
The immigration medical examination (Form I-693) is required for most individuals who are applying to adjust their status to that of a lawful permanent resident from within the United States. It screens for certain communicable diseases, physical or mental health conditions, and ensures required vaccinations are up to date.
The exam must be performed by a USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon — not just any doctor. Results are sealed in an official envelope and submitted to USCIS with your application.
Who Needs an Immigration Physical?
You typically need an immigration medical examination if you are:
- Filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
- Applying for a green card from within the United States
- Required by USCIS to provide a medical examination as part of your specific immigration case
Some visa categories require a medical exam conducted abroad through a designated Panel Physician — if your case is being processed at a U.S. consulate or embassy, please confirm the specific requirements with your immigration attorney.
What Does the Immigration Physical Include?
Physical Examination
Dr. Irshad conducts a thorough physical exam including vital signs, cardiovascular assessment, pulmonary exam, abdominal exam, eye and skin examination, and mental status evaluation. The goal is to identify any Class A or Class B medical conditions that USCIS requires documentation of.
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing
TB screening is a required part of every immigration physical. This is typically done via tuberculin skin test (TST) or interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA blood test). If results are positive, a chest X-ray at a radiology facility will be required before the exam can be completed.
Required Vaccinations
USCIS requires that all immigrants be vaccinated against the following diseases. If you're missing any, they can often be administered at Med Care PC or at a nearby pharmacy before your documentation is completed:
- COVID-19 (primary series + boosters per CDC schedule)
- Influenza (seasonal)
- Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids (Td/Tdap)
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
- Varicella (chickenpox) — if no documented immunity
- Pneumococcal disease (age-appropriate)
- Hepatitis A and B (if indicated by age/schedule)
- Meningococcal disease (if age-appropriate)
- Rotavirus, Haemophilus influenzae, Polio — per age requirements
⚠️ Bring all vaccination records you have to your appointment. Missing vaccines will need to be administered before the Form I-693 can be sealed, which may require an additional visit.
Blood and Urine Testing
Standard blood and urine tests are part of the immigration medical exam, including testing for syphilis and gonorrhea as required by USCIS guidelines.
The Step-by-Step Process at Med Care PC
-
1
Book Your Immigration Physical Appointment
Call (203) 816-2255 or book online. Inform us you need an immigration physical when scheduling. Allow approximately 90 minutes for your appointment.
-
2
Gather Your Documents
Bring your passport or government-issued photo ID, USCIS fee receipt (if applicable), all vaccination records, and any relevant medical records.
-
3
Complete Your Examination
Dr. Irshad conducts the full physical examination, TB testing, and vaccination review. If vaccines are needed, they may be administered the same day.
-
4
Lab Work and TB Results
Blood and urine tests are sent to a lab. TB test results must be read 48–72 hours after placement. If TB test is negative, documentation can proceed. A positive TB test requires a chest X-ray before the form can be completed.
-
5
Receive Your Sealed Form I-693 Envelope
Once all tests are complete and results received, Dr. Irshad completes Form I-693, signs it, and seals it in the USCIS-required envelope. This typically takes 3–5 business days after all results are received. Do not open the sealed envelope — USCIS will reject unsealed documents.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The full immigration physical process — from initial appointment to receiving your sealed Form I-693 — typically takes 7–14 days, depending on TB test timing and lab results. The fastest cases (negative TB test, all vaccines up to date) can be completed in as few as 5–7 business days. Plan accordingly if you have a USCIS interview or filing deadline.
Cost and Insurance
Immigration physicals are generally not covered by health insurance (USCIS considers them administrative requirements, not medical services). Med Care PC offers transparent out-of-pocket pricing. Call (203) 816-2255 for current pricing information. Vaccine costs may be covered by insurance — we'll check your benefits during your visit.
Book Your Immigration Physical in Danbury, CT
Dr. Huma Irshad is a USCIS-authorized Civil Surgeon serving patients throughout Fairfield County. We understand the importance of accuracy and timeliness for your immigration case and are committed to making this process as smooth as possible.
Book your immigration physical online or call (203) 816-2255. Our office is located at 35 White Street, Danbury, CT 06810.