What can you expect in an immigration health examination for a residence application?

Mar 16, 2023 | Green Cards, immigration lawyer, Immigration News, Immigration Status

The immigration health examination is a mandatory part of the residence application process or application for a Permanent Residence status. Whether you are applying through a consular process or a status adjustment process, your health will be taken into consideration as part of your eligibility. The goal is to protect public health and identify individuals who may be inadmissible to on medical grounds. The examination includes a medical history review, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Here’s what you can expect during the examination and beyond.

Health examination requirements for those applying for permanent residence in the United States

Immigrants applying to become Lawful Permanent Residents in the United States must have a thorough health examination. This process involves having a physical examination by an authorized doctor to make sure the Permanent Resident applicant meets certain standards of health that can include vaccination requirements like the Covid-19 vaccine as well as others that may vary by country of origin. Proper documentation that consists of a form and laboratory test results must also be included. Should there be any medical concerns found during the exam, further examinations or tests may be recommended for complete assurance. All Permanent Resident applications are carefully evaluated to ensure the safety of not only individuals but the general public as well.

What to expect during the health examination

Applicants for permanent residence will receive a health check-up by a designated health provider, commonly referred to as the civil surgeon. These health providers are certified to perform this type of exam and will perform a physical exam and review immunization and vaccination health records before proceeding. Additional health laboratory tests may be requested if warranted based on the applicant’s health history or examination results. While none of these tests should alone be determinative of admissibility, applicants should be aware that they must meet statutory health-related grounds of inadmissibility as laid out in United States immigration law in order to qualify for entry or remain in the United States.

Your United States permanent residence application can be denied because of a health examination

The process for becoming a permanent resident of the United States can be lengthy and involve multiple steps including a health examination from an authorized doctor. Your application for permanent residence in the United States can be denied if you don’t pass certain United States health related grounds of inadmissibility which are evaluated during this examination. In most cases, circumstances involving serious physical or mental illnesses will lead to a denial, as well as having various communicable diseases, failing to control infectious diseases that could endanger public health, drug addiction, and engaging in prostitution and other related activities. In some cases, you may simply need to get up-to-date vaccinations. It’s important to keep these potential issues in mind when applying for permanent residence status in the United States.

Tips for a successful immigration health examination

When applying for permanent residence in the United States, it is important to take the health examination seriously. A successful immigration health examination can help ensure that your application is approved and your transition into the United States goes smoothly. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a successful immigration health exam:

  1. Make sure all of your vaccinations and immunizations are up-to-date prior to visiting an authorized doctor or clinic;
  2. Bring any medical records or other documents related to previous illnesses or treatments with you;
  3. Be honest about any existing medical conditions when speaking with the doctor during the exam;
  4. Follow all instructions given by the doctor before and after the exam; 
  5. Stay informed on changes in US immigration policy regarding required tests, vaccines, etc.;
  6. Allow yourself plenty of time for preparation as well as follow-up visits if needed;
  7. Take care of yourself both physically and mentally leading up to and following the exam.

Following these tips will help make sure that your United States Permanent Residency Application process goes smoothly.

Puntier Law is here to help you

Although the immigration health examination process may seem daunting, following the guidance and tips in this article should help you sail through the process with no problems. Just remember to stay calm and be prepared with any required documents. If you have concerns about meeting any requirements, talk to an attorney about your concerns. Our knowledgeable team at Puntier Law can guide you through any workarounds that may exist related to stated requirements or explore alternate avenues to apply for immigration benefits if that’s a better option. These insights are meant to educate you on what you can generally expect but immigration law is complex and we are here to help you navigate the process. It is important for us to help you with your unique needs that will work best for you and your family.

 

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