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With Virginia being the first English colony in North America, the tradition remains: about 13% of the state’s population are immigrants, who also make up 17% of the workforce. If you are looking to join a diverse and thriving community such as Church Fall’s, at CareLife we are here to help. Our dedicated staff of civil surgeons have put together a comprehensive list of everything you need to know to get your immigration physicals in order to move forward with the process of becoming an American citizen.
What Are Immigration Physicals and Why Are They Required?
If you apply to register for a permanent American resident status, you must get a medical examination and receive vaccinations against vaccine-preventable diseases. The government disposes that all green card applicants get one to ensure that they don’t have a health condition that can put the population at risk. For some, it is only necessary to complete the vaccination portion of the exam.
Although this step in the process can make you nervous, there is no need to worry—our team of civil surgeons (that is what specialized doctors are called) can walk patients through this process with understanding and compassion.
What You Need for Your Immigration Physical
If you want to make your resident status permanent, you must fill out form I-485, in which you are asked to complete information about your background and activity in the U.S. This form should be accompanied by form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, which will be completed during your medical revision.
To complete it, you should bring:
- A print copy of Form I-693 (blank).
- Photo identification issued by the government (driver’s license, passport).
- A record of your vaccinations or immunizations (officially translated into English).
- A copy of your medical records (with their official translation into English).
- Your health insurance card, and make sure that your civil surgeon accepts your plan for these examinations.
What to Expect
The immigration physical exam is not like the routine checkup you’d receive for preventive medicine services. During the approximately two hours that the consultation lasts, your civil surgeon will:
- Review your vaccination history
- Review your medical records and any additional notes you may bring from your doctor.
- Ask specific and general questions about your health.
- Perform a physical checkup that includes your vital signs revision, listening to your heart and lungs, a general inspection.
- Order lab tests to detect transmittable diseases like tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea.
Important: All civil surgeons are required to check that you have received the vaccines required by the government. Should there be any that you haven’t gotten, your doctor will indicate that you get it or provide it to you during your physical.
Also, note that the COVID-19 vaccination requirement has been eliminated from Form I-693.
What Happens Next?
Once the immigration physical is over, your doctor will proceed to complete the form and seal it in an envelope. It is essential that you keep a full copy of the completed form before the envelope is sealed. If the envelope shows signs of having been opened or alterations, it will not be accepted.
How to Find a Civil Surgeon in Church Falls, Virginia
Do you need an immigration exam? If you live in Falls Church, Virginia, and want to become a permanent resident, look no further than CareLife. Dr. Fatima Aziz is a certified civil surgeon by the USCIS and will provide you with an accurate, compliant, personalized, and smooth process. If you would like to learn more about our immigration exams, we will be delighted to assist you and guide you through every step. Call our offices or schedule an appointment online to access the most compassionate care in our community.