What to Expect From Your Immigration Physical

When you apply to immigrate to the United States, you’re required to have an immigration physical exam. This exam must be completed by a care provider recognized by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

An immigration physical is an important step in receiving a green card, which allows an individual to work and live permanently in the US. In fact, the immigration physical is sometimes referred to as a “green card physical.”

At LocalMD, in Queens, New York, our health care team is authorized to perform immigration physicals. Our providers are proud to offer this service to the immigrant community.

Elements of an immigration physical 

Here, our providers explain the components of an immigration physical and what you can expect during your visit with us.

A vaccination check

As part of your immigration physical, you receive any necessary vaccinations or boosters. Be sure to bring a list of the vaccines you’ve received. If you don’t know which vaccines you have had and which ones you need, our providers can perform a blood test that checks for antibodies and guides them in their recommendations of which vaccines you may need.

Questions about your medical history

Your provider asks you about what medical conditions you have now or have experienced in the past. 

A physical exam

Your provider performs a checkup that includes listening to your heart with a stethoscope, listening to your lungs, checking your reflexes, looking in your ears, and so on. Our team also measures your height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, breathing rate, and body temperature.

Your exam includes a check on the health of your eyes, nose, ears, throat, lymph nodes, abdomen, arms, legs, and skin.

A mental health check

As part of your exam, your provider asks whether you have a history of psychiatric illnesses or harmful behavior. They also ask about psychoactive drug and alcohol use.

Medical tests

You undergo tests for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, as well as sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea and syphilis. Your provider may order a chest X-ray.

Preparing for your appointment

Be sure to bring these items to your exam:

• A list of any medical conditions you may have
• A list of all medications you take
• Government-issued photo ID, such as a passport
• Copies of test certificates pertaining to tuberculosis, if you’ve had it
• Psychiatric care records
• Your health insurance card
• Your vaccination records

After your exam and testing are complete, your provider fills out USCIS Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record). Click here to learn more about submitting this form.

Schedule your immigration physical today

Our providers look forward to doing your immigration physical to help you on the path to getting your green card. To schedule an appointment, call our office or book an appointment online.