In an update aimed at improving the efficiency of the green card process, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) now requires some applicants filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to submit the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693) at the same time. This change went into effect on December 02, 2024, and aims to ensures that applications are processed more quickly and smoothly.
What’s Changed?
Previously, applicants could submit Form I-693 later, often after receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS. However, USCIS now mandates that some applicants include Form I-693 at the time of filing Form I-485. This change is intended to reduce delays caused by missing or late submissions of medical documentation.
Who Does This Affect?
The requirement primarily applies to applicants filing under:
- Employment-based green card categories where visa availability is current.
- Family-sponsored or other adjustment categories, depending on the filing situation.
USCIS has clarified that applicants whose cases depend on time-sensitive eligibility, such as priority date availability, will benefit from submitting Form I-693 at the same time as Form I-485.
What Is Form I-485 and Form I-693?
Form I-485 is used by individuals in the U.S. who wish to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a green card) without having to leave the country. This adjustment of status process is an essential step for many seeking a new life in the U.S.
Form I-693 documents that an applicant has undergone a medical examination and received all required vaccinations to meet public health standards. The medical examination must be conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon to ensure compliance with health-related grounds of inadmissibility.
Key Details About Form I-693
- Timeliness of Medical Examinations
The medical examination must be performed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and must remain valid at the time of adjudication. Submitting it upfront ensures compliance with these timelines.
- Vaccination Record Updates
Form I-693 also verifies applicants meet vaccination requirements for diseases like measles, mumps, polio, and COVID-19 (if applicable).
- Avoiding RFEs
Applicants who fail to include Form I-693 with their I-485 may face RFEs, potentially extending processing times.
Why This Change?
USCIS introduced this new policy to enhance efficiency in processing adjustment of status applications. By ensuring all necessary documents are submitted upfront, the agency can reduce backlogs and deliver faster decisions for applicants.
What If You’ve Already Filed?
If you submitted Form I-485 before December 2, 2024, but did not include Form I-693, USCIS may still issue an RFE requesting the medical examination. Be prepared to respond promptly to avoid further delays.
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