USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) has removed the medical exam 60-day rule. This rule states that a civil surgeon sign Form I-693 (Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) no more than 60 days before an individual files Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). This requirement has been temporarily waived since December 9, 2021, to minimize delays caused by COVID pandemic constraints.
During the Trump Administration, a new policy was implemented that required individuals to have their medical examination Form I-693 signed by a civil surgeon or USCIS-designated physician no more than 60 days before they filed an application for an immigration benefit. If an individual’s medical exam was signed more than 60 days before filing their application, USCIS considered it expired. And then the individual would be required to obtain and pay for another medical examination.
Sometimes people who submit immigration forms need to have a medical exam. There are special papers that the doctor must sign saying the person is healthy. Before, if the documents were signed more than 60 days before the person applied for immigration, they were not accepted. And the person needed to pay for another exam when USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFEs) for Form I-693. Now, if the papers were signed no more than 2 years ago, offices who check the forms can still accept them.
A knowledgeable, experienced green card attorney can help ensure that you meet the requirements for permanent legal residence, assist with interview preparation and provide other information and advice as needed. Contact Godoy Law Office today at 630-912-0322 to learn how we can help you achieve your American Dream.
