On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form I-693?)
- Context and workflow
- Failure prevention (What causes Form I-693 rejections?)
- What it asks for (What does Form I-693 ask for?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form I-693?)
- Checklist (What is the Form I-693 checklist?)
- Fees
- Where to file
- Form sections (What sections does Form I-693 have?)
- Strategy tips
- Common mistakes (What mistakes are common with Form I-693?)
- Examples (What are examples for Form I-693?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-693?)
- Edge cases and variations
- Scenarios
- Key differentiators
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Quick summary
#The following aliens applying for adjustment of status must submit a partial Form I-693 (Parts ) Applicant completed vaccination requirements or may be eligible for blanket waivers as indicated above, as described in the Form DS-260 guide.
IR-1: IR-1 Immigrant Visa (Spouse of US Citizen)
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form I-693?)
#By ensuring that all medical and vaccination requirements are met and properly documented, applicants can facilitate a smoother adjustment of status process, as described in the U.S. Visa Photo Requirements guide. For related guidance, see the F-1 Student Visa Checklist page.
First page of I-693 form
Source: I-693 PDF
Context and workflow
#Receipt Notice (a related form) from USCIS confirming submission.
Why this matters
- Inconsistencies often trigger returns or follow-up requests because they create uncertainty in the case record.
- This form helps confirm that the application matches the program’s requirements and checklist.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Processing time for I-693 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official USCIS processing time tool.
- Supporting document for adjustment of status applications.
- Part of the evidence package submitted to USCIS.
- May be required for certain nonimmigrant visa holders adjusting status.
- I-693 is commonly filed alongside Form I-485.
Who uses it
The following aliens applying for adjustment of status may need to submit a partial Form I-693 (Parts ) Applicant completed vaccination requirements or may be eligible for blanket waivers as indicated above.
When it is used
- IR-1: IR-1 Immigrant Visa (Spouse of US Citizen)
- CR-1: CR-1 Conditional Resident Visa (Spouse)
- EB-1: EB-1 Employment-Based First Preference
- When applying for IR-1 — I-693 is typically required as part of the application
- When filing I-693 alongside I-485 (Medical exam required for adjustment of status)
- After filing I-693 — I-589 may be the next step (Required if asylum is granted and adjusting status)
Failure prevention (What causes Form I-693 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Submitting the form unsealed.
- Failing to sign the form in the presence of the civil surgeon.
- Ensure form edition is current
What it asks for (What does Form I-693 ask for?)
#- Biographical information about the applicant
- Medical examination results
- Vaccination records
- Applicant identification information
- Supporting documentation inventory
- Eligibility or purpose details
- Declarations and signatures
- Applicants who require a vaccination assessment must submit Part 10 with Parts 1-5 and Part 7 of Form I-693.
- The certification must include the translator’s signature, printed name, the signature date, and the translator’s contact information
- Finally, you must require the applicant to sign the Applicant’s Certification in Part 2
- The original or stamped signature of the physician on staff at the health department must be present in Part 7
- Health departments must also place either the official stamp or raised seal, whichever is customarily used, in Part 7
What you need (What do you need for Form I-693?)
#- A copy of the vaccination record must be given to the applicant.
- The current edition of I-693
- Valid government-issued identification
- Supporting documentation for your case
- Filing fee or fee waiver documentation
- Copy of your filed or approved I-485 (Medical exam required for adjustment of status)
Checklist (What is the Form I-693 checklist?)
#- Download the current I-693 and instructions from the official USCIS website
- Review the official I-693 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of I-693
- Confirm photos are unmounted and unretouched per USCIS specifications
- Ensure that all necessary fields on the form are both signed and dated.
- Ensure that Form I-693 is signed and dated before submission, along with all necessary supporting documents.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form i-693. Check the current fee on the official USCIS fee schedule. | See official schedule |
| Biometrics Services FeeA biometrics fee may be required depending on your category. Check the official fee schedule. | See official schedule |
Can the Form I-693 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
USCIS will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Application for Asylum and for Withholding.
Fees change; always verify on USCIS.
Where to file
#Online filing is available for some categories — verify on the official form page. Otherwise, file by mail to the address in the instructions.
Submit application
Form I-693 by mail with your Form I-485, to the location specified for your Form I-485 (see the Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-485)
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official USCIS website before submitting. For related guidance, see IR-1 Immigrant Visa (Spouse of US.
Form sections (What sections does Form I-693 have?)
#Part 8. Civil Surgeon Worksheet and Part
Complete this section as described in the official instructions.
- Submitting Form I-693 that is not in a sealed envelope
- Not signing the form in the presence of the civil surgeon
- Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a signature
- USCIS verifies this section.
Part 8. Civil Surgeon Worksheet , Item Number
Complete this section as described in the official instructions.
- Submitting Form I-693 that is not in a sealed envelope
- Not signing the form in the presence of the civil surgeon
- Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a signature
- USCIS verifies this section.
Part 11. Additional Information
Complete this section as described in the official instructions.
- Submitting Form I-693 that is not in a sealed envelope
- Not signing the form in the presence of the civil surgeon
- Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a signature
- USCIS verifies this section.
Strategy tips
#Common mistakes (What mistakes are common with Form I-693?)
#- Submitting Form I-693 that is not in a sealed envelope
- Not signing the form in the presence of the civil surgeon
- Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a signature
- Not presenting a valid government-issued photo ID during the examination
- Not completing all required parts of the form
- Using a doctor who is not a designated civil surgeon.
- Failing to include vaccination records.
- Incomplete medical history information.
Examples (What are examples for Form I-693?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
- Strong application: A family-based applicant includes a properly sealed Form I-693 with their adjustment of status application, leading to smooth processing.
- An applicant in the IR-1 category files I-693 as part of their immigration process
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-693?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Requirements may differ based on your specific situation
- Some applicants assume that once they submit Form I-693, they no longer need to provide any additional medical documentation; however, further documentation may be required depending on individual circumstances.
Edge cases and variations
#- If you are asked to submit or update I-693, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
Scenarios
#A software engineer submitted their petition with all supporting documents
The case was approved within the standard timeline
Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays
Key differentiators
#- Unlike Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: Filed together: Medical exam required for adjustment of status
- Unlike Form I-589: Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal: Next step after approval: Required if asylum is granted and adjusting status (Medical pathway)
Why it matters
#Next steps
#- Receipt Notice (a related form) from USCIS confirming submission.
- Attend biometrics appointment (fingerprints, photo, and signature) if required.
- USCIS reviews the form along with other submitted documents.
- Receive notice of action regarding the application status.
- If approved, proceed with next stage forms or receive the adjustment of status decision.
Verification
#This guide is derived from official USCIS instructions for I-693 and is updated when form editions or filing rules change. Always verify current requirements at the official USCIS website.
FAQs
At what point in the immigration process is Form I-693 typically filed?
Consult the official I-693 instructions for detailed guidance tailored to your specific immigration category and circumstances.
What is I-693?
Form I-693, known as the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is an official document used by USCIS. To understand its applicability to your circumstances, please consult the official instructions.
Where can I get I-693 and its instructions?
Download the current edition of I-693 and its instructions from the official USCIS website. Always verify you are using the most recent form version before filing.
What does I-693 do and who needs it?
I-693 is used to authorize a specific immigration benefit as defined by USCIS. Whether you need to submit this depends on your visa category, nationality, and individual circumstances. Check the official USCIS website for the most current eligibility criteria and requirements for your situation.
When will I-693 be processed and what is the workflow?
Processing timing for I-693 varies depending on the filing category, processing location, and current application volume. Standard processing can range from a few weeks to several months. Before submitting, check the official USCIS processing times tool for the most current estimates. After filing, monitor your case status and consider whether expedited options are available.
What are common mistakes when filing I-693?
Common mistakes include submitting incomplete forms, missing required signatures, paying incorrect fees, and failing to include all required supporting documents. Even minor errors can cause significant delays or outright rejection of your application. Double-check every section, verify fee amounts on the official USCIS schedule, and review the instructions thoroughly before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. Get a personalized plan with official sources and deadlines.
Get my plan