Key Points
- USCIS is temporarily waiving the requirement that the physician’s signature on the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693) be dated no more than 60 days before an applicant applies for the underlying immigration benefit
- The rule is waived through September 30, 2022, due to processing delays and COVID-19 impacts
- Individuals may submit their applications for immigration benefits during this time even if more than 60 days have passed since the civil surgeon signed the form
Overview
Due to processing delays and impacts from COVID-19, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is temporarily waiving a rule that civil surgeons must sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, within 60 days of an individual filing an application for an immigration benefit, including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
What are the Changes?
The waiver is in effect through September 30, 2022. It is intended to aid applicants who have been affected by application processing delays that have prevented them from completing their required medical exam on time. The waiver allows applicants to submit their completed Form I-693 along with an application for an immigration benefit even if a civil surgeon signed the form more than 60 days before. Ultimately, they can complete the application process withing needing to have another medical exam, provided their Form I-693 is otherwise valid.
Looking Ahead
The waiver will benefit several applicants, including applicants from Afghanistan in Operation Allies Welcome who completed their immigration medical exams but could not apply for adjustment of status within 60 days.
