Introduction
When applying for permanent residency or certain visas, one critical step you can’t skip is completing the immigration physical exam. This mandatory medical assessment ensures that applicants meet the health standards set by immigration authorities.
However, not every doctor is allowed to perform this exam. Only authorized physicians — known as civil surgeons (for applicants within the U.S.) or panel physicians (for applicants outside the U.S.) — are approved to conduct these evaluations.
Finding the right authorized doctor for your immigration physical exam is essential to avoid delays or rejections. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about finding the right physician, preparing for your appointment, and ensuring your paperwork is correctly completed.
What Is an Immigration Physical Exam?
The immigration physical exam is a comprehensive medical evaluation required for green card applicants and certain visa categories. It confirms that you:
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Are free from communicable diseases of public health significance.
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Have received all required vaccinations.
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Do not have a mental or physical condition that poses a risk to yourself or others.
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Meet overall health standards established by immigration laws.
The results are recorded on Form I-693 (for U.S. applicants) or the equivalent form provided by embassies for overseas applicants.
Why You Need an Authorized Doctor
Immigration authorities require applicants to visit only USCIS-designated doctors to ensure standardized, accurate, and valid medical results.
Types of Authorized Doctors:
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Civil Surgeons – Authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to perform immigration medical exams within the United States.
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Panel Physicians – Appointed by U.S. embassies or consulates to conduct exams outside the U.S.
If you visit a doctor who is not authorized, your medical results will be invalid, and you’ll have to repeat the exam — wasting both time and money.
How to Find an Authorized Doctor in the U.S.
Finding a certified civil surgeon is simple if you know where to look. Follow these steps to locate an authorized physician in your area.
Step 1: Visit the USCIS Official Website
The most reliable and updated source to find an authorized doctor is the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator Tool available at www.uscis.gov.
Here’s how to use it:
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Go to the USCIS homepage.
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Click on “Find a Civil Surgeon.”
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Enter your ZIP code, city, or state.
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Review the list of authorized doctors in your area.
The tool provides contact details, office addresses, and phone numbers for easy scheduling.
Step 2: Call and Confirm Authorization
Once you identify a few potential doctors, call their offices to confirm that they are still authorized civil surgeons. Authorization statuses can change, so it’s always best to verify before booking your appointment.
Ask questions such as:
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“Are you currently approved by USCIS as a civil surgeon?”
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“Do you perform Form I-693 immigration physical exams?”
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“What is the total cost of the exam and lab tests?”
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“Which payment methods do you accept?”
Step 3: Compare Clinics and Costs
The cost of the immigration physical exam can vary widely depending on your location and the clinic’s pricing policy.
Typical cost range:
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$150 to $450 per applicant
Some clinics include lab tests and vaccinations in the price, while others charge separately. Compare at least three clinics to find the best combination of quality, convenience, and affordability.
Step 4: Schedule Your Appointment Early
Immigration medical results are valid for two years from the doctor’s signature date. It’s best to complete your exam well before your immigration interview to avoid last-minute delays.
When scheduling, confirm the following:
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Appointment availability
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Language support (if needed)
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Expected turnaround time for results
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Required items to bring
How to Find an Authorized Doctor Outside the U.S.
If you’re applying for a U.S. visa from another country, you’ll need to see a panel physician approved by the local U.S. embassy or consulate.
Steps to Find a Panel Physician:
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Visit the U.S. embassy or consulate website in your country.
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Look for the section titled “Immigrant Visa Medical Examination.”
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The site will list names, addresses, and contact details of authorized panel physicians.
Each embassy typically works with only a few designated doctors — so your choice may be limited, but all are officially approved.
Important Criteria When Choosing Your Doctor
When selecting an authorized doctor for your immigration physical exam, consider these factors:
1. USCIS or Embassy Authorization
Always double-check that the doctor is currently authorized. Unauthorized exams will be rejected.
2. Experience with Immigration Cases
Choose a doctor familiar with the immigration medical process to avoid mistakes in documentation.
3. Clinic Reputation
Look for clinics with positive reviews and verified experience in immigration-related exams.
4. Language Assistance
If English isn’t your first language, confirm that the clinic provides translators or bilingual staff.
5. Cost Transparency
Request a full breakdown of fees — including charges for vaccines, lab tests, and paperwork.
Preparing for Your Immigration Physical Exam
Once you’ve selected an authorized doctor, you’ll need to prepare properly to ensure a smooth visit.
Documents to Bring
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Valid photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID)
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Vaccination records
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Form I-693 (for U.S. applicants; available on USCIS website)
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Medical history records (especially for chronic illnesses)
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Prescription medication list
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Payment for the exam
Vaccinations You May Need
Depending on your age and health status, you may be required to receive or show proof of vaccines such as:
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MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
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Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
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Varicella (Chickenpox)
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Polio
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Influenza
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Hepatitis B
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COVID-19
The civil surgeon will review your vaccination history and administer any missing shots.
What to Expect During the Exam
During your appointment, the immigration physical exam typically includes:
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Medical history review – Discuss past illnesses, surgeries, and current medications.
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Physical examination – Check vital signs, heart, lungs, and general health.
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Lab tests – Screen for tuberculosis (TB), syphilis, and gonorrhea.
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Vaccination review – Verify required immunizations.
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Mental health assessment – Ensure emotional stability and absence of harmful behaviors.
Once complete, the civil surgeon will fill out your Form I-693, sign it, and seal it in an envelope. Do not open this envelope — it must be submitted directly to immigration authorities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When searching for and working with an authorized doctor, be sure to avoid these common errors:
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❌ Visiting an unauthorized doctor – Only approved civil surgeons or panel physicians can complete the form.
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❌ Forgetting vaccination proof – Missing immunization records may lead to delays or extra costs.
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❌ Failing to bring identification – Without valid ID, your doctor cannot perform the exam.
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❌ Opening the sealed envelope – This invalidates your results.
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❌ Waiting too long – Schedule early, as lab results can take several days.
After the Exam: What Happens Next
Once your immigration physical exam is complete:
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Your doctor will give you a sealed envelope containing your official results (Form I-693).
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You’ll also receive a copy for your records.
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Submit the sealed envelope along with your immigration application or present it at your visa interview.
Processing Time
Results are usually ready within 3–10 business days, depending on lab turnaround.
Validity
Your exam results are valid for two years. If your immigration process extends beyond that, you may need to retake the exam.
How to Verify a Doctor’s Authorization
To confirm that a doctor is officially recognized for immigration exams:
✅ Visit the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator Tool (for U.S. applicants).
✅ Check the U.S. embassy website in your country (for overseas applicants).
✅ Ask the doctor to show proof of USCIS authorization or panel physician designation.
Never rely on word-of-mouth or online advertisements alone — always confirm through official channels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can my family doctor perform the immigration physical exam?
No. Only doctors approved by USCIS (civil surgeons) or U.S. embassies (panel physicians) can perform the exam.
2. What happens if I go to a non-authorized doctor?
Your results will not be accepted, and you’ll need to retake the entire exam with an approved physician.
3. How long does the immigration physical exam take?
The appointment typically lasts 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the required tests.
4. Can I request a female or male doctor?
Yes, most clinics accommodate gender preferences if requested in advance.
5. Do I need to fast before the exam?
No fasting is necessary. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment.
Conclusion
Finding an authorized doctor for your immigration physical exam is one of the most important steps in your immigration process. Choosing a verified USCIS-designated civil surgeon or panel physician ensures your results are valid, accurate, and compliant with immigration standards.
Start by using the official USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator Tool or your local U.S. embassy’s website. Double-check the doctor’s authorization, gather all required documents, and prepare for your appointment.
By selecting the right physician, you’ll complete your exam confidently, avoid unnecessary delays, and move one step closer to achieving your immigration goals.
