If you are in the process of obtaining your Green Card or adjusting your immigration status, you will need to complete Form I-693 — the official medical examination required by USCIS. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know to complete this process in Houston, TX.
What Is Form I-693?
Form I-693, known as the "Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record," is an official medical document that certifies you do not have any health conditions that would bar you from immigrating to the United States. It is a mandatory requirement for most Green Card applications.
Who Can Perform the I-693 Exam?
Only physicians designated as Civil Surgeons by USCIS are authorized to perform this examination. At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale, we have certified Civil Surgeons who perform these exams every day in Houston.
What Does the Immigration Medical Exam Include?
Complete Physical Examination
- Full medical history review
- Vision and hearing evaluation
- Mental health screening
- Head-to-toe physical examination
Laboratory Tests
- Blood test for syphilis (RPR/VDRL)
- Tuberculosis test (TB skin test or IGRA blood test)
- Additional tests as required by USCIS guidelines
Our clinical laboratory performs all of these tests on-site, so you will not need to go anywhere else to complete the lab requirements for the I-693.
Required Vaccinations
USCIS requires that all applicants be up to date with the vaccination schedule recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Below are the most commonly required vaccines:
- Hepatitis A: 2-dose series; protects against viral liver infection
- Hepatitis B: 3-dose series; required for all applicants
- Influenza (flu): One annual dose; required during flu season
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): 2 doses; if you were born before 1957, USCIS considers you immune and you do not need it
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap/Td): Booster every 10 years
- Varicella (chickenpox): 2 doses if you did not have the illness as a child
- Meningococcal: Required for certain age groups
- Pneumococcal: For older adults or those with chronic conditions
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): For applicants ages 11 to 26
As of January 20, 2025, USCIS no longer requires the COVID-19 vaccine for Form I-693.
If you have already received some vaccines, bring your vaccination card or medical records. The Civil Surgeon will determine which vaccines are missing and only administer the ones you actually need.
How Much Does the I-693 Exam Cost in Houston?
Costs vary by clinic. At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale, we offer competitive pricing that includes:
- Complete physical examination
- Completed and signed Form I-693
- Full consultation in Spanish or English
Vaccines are billed separately based on which ones you need.
What Documents Should I Bring?
- Valid photo ID (passport, country ID, or driver's license)
- Vaccination records (if available)
- Medical history (if you have chronic conditions)
- USCIS case documents related to your case
How Long Does the Process Take?
At our Houston clinic, the examination is typically completed in 1-2 hours. If you need additional vaccines, a follow-up visit may be needed to complete the series.
A Form I-693 signed by the Civil Surgeon on or after November 1, 2023 has no fixed expiration date: it remains valid for as long as the application it was filed with (for example, Form I-485) is pending. If USCIS denies that application or you withdraw it, you will need a new exam for any future application. This is the USCIS policy in effect since June 11, 2025.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants make errors that delay their immigration process or invalidate their I-693. These are the most frequent ones:
1. Not bringing vaccination records
If you don't bring proof of previous vaccines, the Civil Surgeon will be required to repeat them, which increases the cost and the number of visits. Find your vaccination card before your appointment.
2. Choosing a doctor not authorized by USCIS
Only designated Civil Surgeons may sign the I-693. If another physician performs the exam, USCIS will reject it. Always verify that the clinic appears on the official USCIS list.
3. Opening the sealed envelope
Once the Civil Surgeon seals the envelope containing the form, you must not open it. If the envelope arrives opened or damaged, USCIS will reject it and you will have to repeat the exam.
4. Reusing an I-693 from a previous application
Since June 11, 2025, the I-693 is only valid for the application it was filed with. If that application was denied or withdrawn, do not reuse the form: USCIS will ask for a new one. File it with your application, or when USCIS requests it, to avoid repeating the process.
5. Not disclosing prior medical conditions
Concealing health conditions can lead to more serious complications during the process. Health problems do not necessarily prevent immigration; there are waivers available for many conditions.
6. Waiting until the last minute
In Houston, clinics with Civil Surgeons may have wait times, especially during high-demand periods. Schedule your appointment at least 2–3 weeks before your USCIS interview.
What Happens if My I-693 is Rejected?
If USCIS rejects your I-693 form, don't panic. There are several common reasons and solutions for each:
The form is incomplete or has errors
USCIS may return the form if sections are blank, signatures are missing, or information is incorrect. In this case, you will need to return to the Civil Surgeon to have it corrected or completed. At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale, we carefully review the form before sealing it.
The envelope arrived opened or damaged
You will need to repeat the full medical exam. Make sure to keep the envelope in a safe place and do not open it under any circumstances.
The form belongs to a denied or withdrawn application
Since June 11, 2025, an I-693 is only valid for the application it was filed with. If that application was denied or withdrawn, you will need a new exam for the next one. If your form was signed before November 1, 2023, the older 2-year validity rule still applies; confirm it with your immigration attorney.
A medical condition requires additional evaluation
In some cases, USCIS may request additional specialist evaluations. The Civil Surgeon will guide you through the next steps, and in many cases it is possible to request a medical waiver from USCIS.
If your form was rejected, contact us. We can help you understand why and schedule a new exam or correct the issue as quickly as possible.
Tips for Your Appointment
Before Your Visit
- Gather all vaccination records
- List all medications you currently take
- Prepare your medical history information
During the Exam
- Be honest about your health history
- Ask questions if you don't understand something
- Our staff speaks Spanish
After the Exam
- Keep a copy of the form
- Do not open the sealed envelope
- Submit the form with your USCIS application
Why Choose Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale?
- USCIS-certified Civil Surgeons with experience
- 100% Spanish-language service
- Same-day results in most cases
- Competitive, transparent pricing
- Convenient location in Houston TX
- Walk-in appointments available
Schedule Your Exam Today
Don't let the medical exam delay your immigration process. Contact us today to schedule your I-693 immigration exam.
Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Lawndale
- Phone: (832) 530-4188
- Address: 7040 Lawndale St # B, Houston, TX 77023
- Hours: Monday-Sunday 9AM-9PM
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed immigration attorney for questions about your specific case.
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