The medical examination is a mandatory component of the US visa application process for specific immigrant and non-immigrant categories, designed to safeguard public health in accordance with the regulations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This procedure is highly formalized and must be conducted by a physician authorized by the US Department of State. This guide provides a structured overview of the current requirements, the step-by-step process, and essential considerations to ensure compliance and avoid delays in your visa issuance.
It is crucial to understand that the medical examination for a US visa is not initiated by the applicant independently. The process begins only after the applicant receives specific instructions from the consular section of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling their case. Typically, this applies to individuals applying for immigrant visas (green cards) and certain non-immigrant visas where a prolonged stay is anticipated. For most short-term visitors (B1/B2 visa tourists and business travelers), a routine medical exam is not required. Attempting to undergo an examination without explicit instructions or at a non-authorized facility will result in the rejection of the results and financial loss.
Official Requirements and Locating an Approved Physician
The examination must be performed by a physician (also referred to as a «panel physician») designated and authorized by the US Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. These physicians are trained on the specific protocols, forms, and health standards set by the CDC and the Department of State. The list of approved physicians is published on the official website of the respective U.S. Embassy. It is imperative to use this list, as results from any other doctor will not be accepted. The list is subject to change, so verification at the time of scheduling your appointment is essential.
Step-by-Step Walkthrough of the Medical Exam Process
Once you have your official instructions and have identified an approved physician, follow this sequence:
- Step 1: Schedule the Appointment. Contact the approved clinic or physician’s office directly to book your medical exam. Do this promptly, as wait times can be significant. Inform the clinic that you need the exam for a US visa application.
- Step 2: Prepare the Required Documentation. You will typically need to bring: your valid passport, the appointment letter/instructions from the Embassy (if provided), your vaccination records, any prior chest X-ray films or reports (if available), a government-issued ID, and the required number of passport-style photographs specified by the physician.
- Step 3: Undergo the Physical Examination and Tests. The standard examination includes: a review of your medical history, a physical examination (measuring height, weight, blood pressure, vision, hearing, etc.), a chest X-ray (for applicants 15 years and older) to screen for tuberculosis, and blood tests for syphilis and other communicable diseases as required. A urine test is also standard.
- Step 4: Review and Complete Vaccination Requirements. The panel physician will review your vaccination history against the CDC’s required vaccine list. If you lack necessary vaccinations, you may receive them at the clinic (if offered) or be instructed to get them elsewhere and provide proof. The physician will complete the Vaccination Documentation Worksheet (DS-3025) or the equivalent form for immigrants (I-693).
Costs, Validity, and Handling of Results
The fee for the medical examination is set by the authorized physician or clinic and is paid directly to them. This fee covers the examination, tests, and administrative costs. Vaccinations, if needed, are an additional expense. The completed medical report, along with the chest X-ray and laboratory results, are sealed in an envelope. You must not open this envelope. The physician will either give it to you to submit during your visa interview or send it directly to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate, following their specific protocol. The medical examination results are generally valid for six months from the date of the exam. Your visa application must be completed within this validity period.
Accuracy and adherence to the prescribed protocol are paramount. Any deviation, such as missing tests or incomplete vaccination documentation, can lead to a request for a re-examination, causing substantial delays in your visa processing timeline.
Key Documents and Forms You Will Encounter
The primary documents involved are:
- Form DS-3025, Vaccination Documentation Worksheet: Completed by the panel physician to record your vaccination compliance.
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (primarily for immigrant visa applicants adjusting status within the US): A more comprehensive form used in certain cases.
- The sealed envelope containing the full medical report: Marked with instructions for the consular officer.
Ensure all personal information on these forms matches exactly the data in your passport and visa application (DS-160). Discrepancies can cause significant problems.
Addressing Common Issues and Medical Conditions
If the examination reveals a health condition (e.g., a positive TB test or a communicable disease), the panel physician will follow established CDC guidelines. This may involve additional testing, treatment, or specialist consultation before a final determination can be made. The physician will guide you through the necessary steps. Having a pre-existing medical condition does not automatically disqualify you from receiving a visa, but it must be properly evaluated and documented.
Communication with the Embassy and Technical Support
All medical questions and interpretations of results are handled solely by the authorized panel physician. The U.S. Embassy does not provide medical advice. For procedural questions related to scheduling your visa interview or technical issues with the application portal, you should refer to the official Embassy website. In many regions, the Embassy partners with a service provider for administrative support. If you encounter difficulties with the interview scheduling system, you may contact the VFS GLOBAL Help Line for technical assistance, provided they are the authorized partner in your jurisdiction. Remember, they cannot answer medical or visa eligibility questions. A methodical and informed approach to the medical examination, starting with a careful review of the official instructions from the U.S. Embassy, is the most effective strategy for ensuring a smooth and successful visa application process.
Austria 
Japan 
New Zealand 
Singapore 
USA