Everything You Need to Know About an Immigration Physical Exam
15/08/2023
Immigration physical exams, also known as immigration medical exams, are an integral part of the immigration application process. These health checks aim to safeguard the U.S. population by ensuring incoming foreign nationals meet the necessary health-related standards for admissibility. If you're preparing for your immigration physical, it's crucial to understand every aspect, from the immigration medical requirements to the possible outcomes.
What to Bring to Your Exam
When attending your immigration physical exam, there are several documents you should bring with you. Typically, you will need your passport or an alternative form of government-issued identification, along with any relevant medical records, including proof of previous vaccinations. Also, if you have any chronic illnesses or conditions, bringing relevant medical documents can expedite the immigration health check process.
What Vaccines You Should Expect
The vaccination requirements for immigrants vary depending on age, medical condition, and other factors. Some of the most common vaccines include MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), polio, and Hepatitis A and B, among others. These vaccinations are part of the immigration medical requirements set forth by U.S. immigration law.
What Your Physical Exam Will Look Like
The medical examination for immigration is not a comprehensive physical examination. It's primarily a screening for specific medical conditions, which includes:
- Communicable Diseases: These are diseases of public health significance that can spread from person to person.
- Physical or Mental Disorders: Disorders with associated harmful behaviors are also checked during this examination.
- Drug Abuse or Addiction: Potential immigrants are screened for signs of drug abuse or addiction.
It's worth noting that any of these conditions could lead to medical inadmissibility in immigration, though immigration medical waivers are sometimes possible.
During the medical examination, the following steps will be taken:
- Review of Medical History: The doctor will conduct a thorough review of your medical history to understand your overall health.
- Physical Examination: A physical examination is performed to check for any potential health issues.
- Ordering Tests: If needed, the doctor will order additional tests to check for specific conditions.
The results of your immigration health check are documented in an immigration medical report, which:
- Is Submitted to Immigration Authorities: The immigration medical report is sent to the immigration authorities to determine your admissibility.
If you do all the steps right, then you will have nothing to worry about!
Cost and Validity Period of Your Immigration Medical Exam
The immigration medical cost can vary depending on the tests required, vaccinations needed, and individual clinic pricing. It's recommended to inquire about the expected costs beforehand to budget appropriately. As for the immigration medical validity period, the exam results are typically valid for two years from the date of the examination.
Understanding the immigration physical exam process can help you better prepare and navigate your way toward obtaining your visa or Green Card. Be sure to follow all guidelines and cooperate fully with the medical staff to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
Need an immigration physical exam done? Number One Lab offers top-quality testing services in Florida, ensuring an exceptional experience for patients. All you need to do is sign up for an appointment, get tested the same day, and receive your results as soon as possible! We handle all the paperwork for you, providing you with peace of mind!