Welcome to the U.S. news update from Corporate Immigration Partners, PC (CIP PC), where the team provides insights into the latest policy changes impacting corporate immigration. In today’s segment, the team delves into the new green card medical examination requirements.
Medical Exam Requirements for Green Card Filings
As of December 2, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new requirement regarding the submission of medical examination results for green card applicants. Here are the key details:
New Medical Exam Submission Requirement for Green Card Applicants
Form I-693 Submission: Applicants must now submit Form I-693, the “Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record,” at the same time as their Form I-485, which is the application for adjustment of status. Previously, applicants could submit this form later in the process, often in response to a Request for Evidence (RFE) or during a Green Card interview.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
If an applicant fails to include Form I-693 with their initial I-485 filing, USCIS may reject the application outright.
Validity of Medical Exams for Green Cards
Indefinite Validity: Medical exams signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, will be considered valid indefinitely. This means applicants can submit these medical exams anytime without worrying about expiration during lengthy processing times.
Previous Exams: Medical exams signed before November 1, 2023, remain valid for two years from the date of signature. Applicants whose I-485 applications are pending beyond this period may need to provide updated medical examinations.
Rationale Behind the Change
USCIS aims to streamline the application process and reduce delays caused by additional RFE related to medical examinations. This change is part of broader efforts to enhance efficiency in processing adjustment of status applications.
Impact on Green Card Applicants: Insights from CIP PC
This policy affects all individuals applying for a green card in the U.S. who need to submit medical examination documentation. It emphasizes the importance of planning to ensure that all required forms are submitted together to avoid complications in the application process.
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Envoy is pleased to provide you with this information, which was prepared in collaboration with Waleed Salaheldin, who is a Partner at Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C. and Anothony Zarate who is a Managing Attorney at Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C., a U.S. law firm who provides services through the Envoy Platform (the “U.S. Law Firm”).
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. Envoy is not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. If you would like guidance on how this information may impact your particular situation and you are a client of the U.S. Law Firm, consult your attorney. If you are not a client of the U.S. Law Firm working with Envoy, consult another qualified professional. This website does not create an attorney-client relationship with the U.S. Law Firm.
