Foreign nationals applying for adjustment of status or other immigration benefits should take note: as of June 11, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a significant policy change concerning the use and validity of Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This update could directly impact green card applicants and others who rely on this medical form as part of their immigration process.
What’s Changed?
1. Form I-693 Is Now Application-Specific
Previously, applicants could reuse a properly signed Form I-693 across multiple benefit filings—so long as it remained within the USCIS-defined validity window. However, under the new rule, each Form I-693 is only valid for the specific immigration benefit application it was submitted with.
Example: If you submit Form I-693 with a Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) and that application is denied or withdrawn, you cannot reuse the same Form I-693 for a future I-485 or any other application. A new Form I-693 must be completed and submitted.
2. Rejection vs. Denial – Key Exception
This policy shift does not apply to rejected applications. If USCIS rejects your application package and returns it with the original Form I-693 envelope opened, you may resubmit the same Form I-693 with a corrected application and the rejection notice. This narrow exception may help reduce unnecessary delays due to administrative errors.
3. New Edition of Form I-693 Becomes Mandatory on July 3, 2025
Starting July 3, 2025, only the 01/20/2025 edition of Form I-693 will be accepted by USCIS. Until then, both the 03/09/2023 and 01/20/2025 editions are valid.
Important note for applicants and civil surgeons: The edition date must match the date the civil surgeon signs the form—not the date it is submitted to USCIS.
What This Means for Applicants
If you’re preparing to file for a green card or other immigration benefit that requires Form I-693, keep the following in mind:
- Confirm the Form Version: Always verify that your civil surgeon is using the correct version of the form based on the signature date.
- Keep a Copy Before Submission: Request a sealed and signed copy for your records to catch any errors and ensure compliance.
- Don’t Reuse Forms: If your initial application is denied or withdrawn, plan to obtain a new medical exam and Form I-693 for any subsequent filing.
Final Thoughts
This USCIS update reflects a tightening of documentation standards and aims to reduce confusion or misuse of outdated medical exams. While it may create additional work for applicants and their attorneys, understanding and adapting to these changes is essential to avoiding unnecessary delays in your immigration journey.
For up-to-date guidance on immigration procedures and document compliance, consult the USCIS Forms Updates page or speak directly with an experienced immigration attorney.
If you have questions about how these changes impact your pending or upcoming application, Ahluwalia Law Offices is here to help. We provide personalized guidance to ensure your filings remain compliant under evolving USCIS policies.
