If you’re applying for a green card, the immigration medical exam is an important step. Many people worry about what happens during the exam and whether a health issue could cause problems.
The simple answer is: yes, some medical conditions can affect your application—but it doesn’t mean your case is over. Most issues can be treated or resolved.
At 360 Urgent Care Clinic in Wilmington, MA, experienced civil surgeons help applicants complete this process smoothly and without confusion.
What Is an Immigration Physical?
An immigration physical is a health check required for your green card application. The results are recorded on Form I-693, which must be completed by an approved doctor.
Important Update
As of December 2, 2024, you must submit your medical exam form at the same time as your green card application. If you don’t, your application could be rejected.
What Happens During the Exam?
The exam usually includes:
- Review of your medical history
- Basic physical check-up
- Blood tests
- Tuberculosis (TB) test
- Chest X-ray (if needed)
- Vaccination record check
What Are Class A and Class B Conditions?
Doctors divide health conditions into two types:
Class A (Serious Issues)
These can affect your green card approval:
- Active infectious diseases like TB, syphilis, or gonorrhea
- Mental health conditions linked to harmful behavior
- Current drug abuse or addiction
- Missing required vaccines
Class B (Less Serious)
These do not stop your application:
- Controlled long-term illnesses
- Past medical conditions
- Latent (inactive) TB
- Mental health history without harmful behavior
Common Medical Issues That May Affect Your Application
1. Tuberculosis (TB)
- Active TB → Can delay your application
- Inactive TB → Usually not a problem
If active TB is found, you’ll need treatment first.
2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- Conditions like syphilis or gonorrhea can affect your results
- The good news: they are treatable, and once treated, you can proceed
3. Mental Health Conditions
Having a mental health condition does not automatically disqualify you.
It only becomes an issue if:
- It causes harm to yourself or others
Otherwise, it’s usually not a problem.
4. Drug or Substance Use
- Current drug addiction can affect your application
- Past use (if resolved) usually does not
5. Missing Vaccinations
You must show proof of required vaccines. If you don’t have them:
- You can usually get them during your appointment
What If You Have a Serious Condition?
If a serious condition is found, don’t panic.
In many cases:
- You can get treatment and reapply
- You may qualify for a waiver (special permission)
However, active drug abuse usually does not have a waiver option.
Important Updates for 2025
Here are key things to remember:
- Submit Form I-693 with your application
- The form is only valid for that specific application
- Use the latest version of the form
These changes make it important to do everything correctly the first time.
Final Thoughts
The immigration physical is an important step, but it’s not something to fear.
- Most health issues are manageable
- Many conditions can be treated
- A failed exam doesn’t mean the end of your application
Getting your exam done at a trusted urgent care clinic like 360 Urgent Care Clinic in Wilmington, MA can help you avoid delays and complete your green card process with confidence.
Ready to Complete Your Immigration Physical in Wilmington, MA?
The immigration physical is a critical step in your green card journey, and getting it right the first time saves you time, money, and stress. 360 Urgent Care Clinic at 234 Main St, Wilmington, MA 01887, is a USCIS-designated civil surgeon practice with experience guiding applicants through every aspect of the Form I-693 process. Schedule your immigration medical exam today and complete this step with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between failing and having a Class B condition on the immigration physical?
A Class B condition does not make you inadmissible and does not mean you have failed your exam. It simply means the civil surgeon noted a health issue that is not severe enough to block your green card. Only a Class A condition constitutes a health-related ground of inadmissibility. Many applicants with chronic but well-managed health conditions receive a Class B notation and proceed successfully with their green card applications.
2. Can I reschedule or repeat the immigration physical if I have a health issue?
Yes. If a treatable condition such as an active STI or active TB is found, you can complete the required treatment and return for a follow-up examination. The civil surgeon will re-evaluate your status once treatment is documented. It is important not to delay, since your Form I-693 is now tied to the pending application and its validity does not extend beyond that application.
3. Does HIV status affect immigration eligibility?
No. HIV was removed from the list of inadmissible conditions and is no longer a disqualifying finding on the immigration physical. The civil surgeon may still ask questions about HIV as part of a general health history review, but a positive HIV status will not result in a Class A finding or affect your green card application.
4. How do I find a USCIS-designated civil surgeon near me?
You can use the USCIS Find a Doctor tool or call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. Only a USCIS-designated civil surgeon can legally perform an immigration medical exam and complete Form I-693. Exams performed by non-designated physicians will not be accepted by USCIS.