Planning to apply for a U.S. visa in 2025? One critical step in the application process is the mandatory medical examination. Whether you are pursuing a Green Card (immigrant visa) or a temporary visa (non-immigrant), the U.S. government mandates specific medical screenings to ensure public health safety.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain the essential medical tests and vaccination requirements for U.S. visa applicants, along with recent updates for 2025. With the right preparation, your health screening will be a seamless step—not a barrier—on your journey to the United States.
Access Life-Changing Travel UPDATES on TRAVUL.org Community & Connect With Fellow Travulers: (www.travul.org/twg)
Medical Examinations for Immigrant Visa Applicants (Green Card Seekers)
If you’re applying for a U.S. immigrant visa, also known as a Green Card, you are required to undergo a full medical examination by a panel physician authorized by the U.S. embassy or consulate. These evaluations are standardized and must comply with updated CDC and USCIS guidelines.
Core Health Requirements for 2025:
| Test / Requirement | Who It’s For | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Medical History Review | All applicants | Includes evaluation of past illnesses, surgeries, psychiatric care, etc. |
| Physical Examination | All applicants | Involves checking vital organs, skin, throat, lymph nodes, and more. |
| Tuberculosis (TB) Screening | Ages 2 and older | Requires IGRA blood test; chest X-ray if results are positive. |
| Syphilis Blood Test | Ages 15 and older | Mandatory blood screening for the disease. |
| Gonorrhea Test | Ages 18 to 24 | A urine test to check for gonorrhea. |
| Mental Health Assessment | Case-by-case basis | Evaluates if the applicant is a danger to self or public. |
| Vaccination Compliance | All applicants | Must show proof of vaccination per U.S. immigration rules. |
Mandatory Vaccines for U.S. Immigration in 2025
As part of the health requirements, applicants must be immunized against a list of infectious diseases. This ensures the individual is not a health risk upon arrival in the U.S.
Required Vaccines:
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap)
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Seasonal Influenza (if applying during flu season)
- Meningococcal, Pneumococcal, Rotavirus, and Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (age-specific)
Important 2025 Update: As of January 20, 2025, the COVID-19 vaccine is no longer a required component of the immigration medical examination.
Access Life-Changing Travel UPDATES on TRAVUL.org Community & Connect With Fellow Travulers: (www.travul.org/twg)
Non-Immigrant Visa Applicants: Who Needs a Medical Exam?
If you’re applying for a temporary visa such as a tourist, student, or work visa, you typically won’t be required to undergo a medical exam. However, exceptions apply in certain cases:
Medical Tests May Be Needed If:
| Reason for Exam | Additional Tests Required |
| Applicant poses a public health risk | TB testing, full physical exam |
| Past or current drug/alcohol abuse | Drug/alcohol screening, mental health evaluation |
| Consular officer requests it | TB test, blood tests, physical examination |
These evaluations are determined on a case-by-case basis and usually depend on disclosed health history or red flags during the application review process.
Required Medical Documentation
Depending on your visa category and application pathway (in the U.S. or abroad), different documents are required:
| Document | Purpose | Notes |
| Form I-693 | Used for status adjustment within the U.S. | Must be completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. |
| Sealed Medical Report | Submitted during embassy visa interview abroad | Must not be opened by the applicant. |
Note: If you are adjusting your status inside the U.S., ensure Form I-693 is signed after November 1, 2023, to avoid expiration issues.
Access Life-Changing Travel UPDATES on TRAVUL.org Community & Connect With Fellow Travulers: (www.travul.org/twg)
When and How to Schedule Your Medical Examination
Timing your health exam correctly is essential to avoid delays or visa denials. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Book Your Medical Exam Immediately After Receiving Interview Date
- Schedule the exam as soon as your interview is confirmed.
Step 2: Complete the Exam at Least 5 Days Before Interview
- This allows the clinic sufficient time to send sealed reports to the embassy or consulate.
Tips for a Smooth Medical Exam Experience
- Bring All Required Documents: Passport, appointment letter, vaccination records, and visa forms.
- Fast if Required: Some tests may require you not to eat or drink beforehand—follow physician guidance.
- Do Not Open Sealed Medical Results: Doing so invalidates the report.
- Inform the Doctor of Any Pre-existing Conditions: Transparency helps avoid complications or delays.
- Double-Check Vaccine Records: Missing vaccines can delay your case.
Conclusion: Don’t Let a Medical Exam Delay Your U.S. Visa Journey
The medical test is a crucial hurdle in your U.S. visa process—but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Understanding what’s expected, staying current with the 2025 guidelines, and planning early will ensure your medical screening supports—not hinders—your path to the United States.
If you’re planning to apply, stay updated with the latest USCIS or Department of State notices, and consider professional guidance if needed.
For more immigration tips, checklists, and real-time updates, visit Travul.org—your trusted source for navigating global visa processes with confidence.
Access Life-Changing Travel UPDATES on TRAVUL.org Community & Connect With Fellow Travulers: (www.travul.org/twg)
