Lake Nona Medical Services · Updated
If you are applying for a green card (permanent residency) in the United States, you will need Form I-693, the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Record of Vaccination. Only a doctor designated by USCIS as a civil surgeon can complete it.
Dr. Catherine Arevalo at Lake Nona Medical Services is a USCIS civil surgeon. Here is how the exam works.
What is an immigration physical?
It is a medical exam that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires for most green-card applicants. It checks for a short list of health conditions set by the CDC and confirms your vaccination record.
What the exam includes
Dr. Arevalo reviews your medical history and does a physical exam. You will also have the lab tests the CDC requires for your age. For most applicants age 2 and older, that includes a blood test for tuberculosis.
She also reviews your vaccination records against the CDC list for your age. If you are missing a required vaccine, ask us about it when you call so we can tell you what to expect.
What to bring
Bring a government-issued photo ID (a passport is best), your vaccination records if you have them, any medical records for ongoing conditions, and your immigration paperwork or case number.
How long it takes
The visit itself usually takes under an hour. Your form is finished once all the required test results are back. Dr. Arevalo then signs the completed I-693 and gives it to you sealed, the way USCIS requires. Do not open the envelope.
Getting it done
Walk-ins are welcome at both offices, but for an immigration physical we recommend calling ahead at (407) 378-6686 so we have the forms ready for you. Dr. Arevalo speaks English and Spanish.
This article is general information, not medical advice for your situation. For emergencies, call 911. More from the blog