The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant policy shift affecting all green card (permanent residency) applicants. Effective immediately from June 11, 2025, every new or pending application must now include a renewed medical examination form—Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This abrupt change reverses a recent policy and has major implications for thousands of applicants.
What Changed in the Green Card Medical Form Policy?
Background of the Policy Update
Previously, under a rule introduced in April 2024, applicants could use a medical examination form (Form I-693) signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, indefinitely. This meant that even if an application was withdrawn or denied, the medical form could be reused for future filings. The intent was to streamline the process and reduce costs for applicants.
The New Rule
As of June 11, 2025, USCIS has reversed this policy. Now, a Form I-693 is only valid for the specific application it accompanies. If the application is withdrawn or denied, the medical form becomes invalid and cannot be reused. Any subsequent application will require a new medical examination and a freshly completed I-693 form.
Key Details of the New Policy
Effective Date and Scope
-
Effective Date: June 11, 2025
-
Scope: Applies to all applications filed or pending on or after this date
-
Form Impacted: Form I-693 (Medical Examination and Vaccination Record)
Validity of Form I-693
-
Validity: Only valid while the associated application (typically Form I-485) is pending
-
After Withdrawal or Denial: If the application is withdrawn or denied, the I-693 form is no longer valid for any future application
-
Reapplication: Requires a new medical examination and a new I-693 form.
Why Did USCIS Change the Policy?
Public Health Rationale
USCIS states that the previous policy, which allowed indefinite use of the medical form, was “overly broad and could potentially threaten public health in the United States.” By limiting the validity to the current application, USCIS aims to ensure that applicants receive timely and accurate medical examinations and treatments, thereby safeguarding public health.
Other Considerations
The agency also cites the need for updated medical information as applicants’ health status can change over time. This change ensures that all applicants are evaluated based on their current health condition, not outdated records.
Impact on Green Card Applicants
Financial Burden
Medical examinations by authorized civil surgeons typically cost between $100 and $500, depending on the provider and region. With the new rule, applicants whose forms are invalidated due to withdrawal or denial must bear the cost of another medical exam.
No Grace Period
Unlike previous changes, there is no transition period for this update. Applicants and attorneys have expressed concern over the abruptness, noting that forms already in transit or recently submitted may now be invalid.
Increased Administrative Complexity
The requirement for a new medical form each time an application is denied or withdrawn adds another layer of complexity and potential delay to the green card process
Other Recent Changes to Green Card Processing
Social Media Disclosure Proposal
-
Announced: March 2025
-
Requirement: Applicants for green cards, asylum, refugee status, and naturalization must list their social media handles
-
Public Comment Period: Open until May 5, 2025
Hold on Asylum and Refugee Green Cards
-
Started: Late March 2025
-
Reason: Additional fraud and security reviews have paused processing for some applicants
COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement
-
Change: COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required as of January 20, 2025
-
CDC Update: Removed COVID-19 from the required vaccine list on March 11, 2025
Extended Green Card Validity for Renewals
-
Policy: Since September 10, 2024, green cards are automatically extended for 36 months while Form I-90 renewal is pending.
Reactions and Protests
Immigrant Rights Protests
The policy change comes amid heightened tensions and protests in cities like Los Angeles, where immigrant rights groups have demonstrated against increased enforcement and perceived targeting of immigrant communities.
Legal and Community Response
Immigration attorneys and advocacy groups have criticized the lack of a grace period and the added financial burden on applicants. Some argue that the changes are part of a broader pattern to make legal immigration more difficult.
What Should Applicants Do Now?
Immediate Steps
-
Check Application Status: If your application is pending or filed after June 11, 2025, ensure your medical form is up to date and valid for the current application.
-
Prepare for Additional Costs: Be ready to pay for a new medical examination if your application is denied or withdrawn.
-
Stay Informed: Monitor USCIS announcements for any further changes or clarifications.
Consult an Immigration Attorney
Given the complexity and rapid changes, consulting with an immigration attorney can help navigate the new requirements and avoid costly mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When does the new medical form policy take effect?
The new policy is effective immediately for all green card applications filed or pending on or after June 11, 2025.
2. What happens if my green card application is denied or withdrawn?
You must obtain a new medical examination and submit a new Form I-693 with any future application.
3. Is there a grace period for the new rule?
No, there is no grace period. The change applies immediately to all relevant applications.