EB-3 Immigration Medical Exam: Panel Doctors, Vaccines
Consular cases need a panel physician chosen by the embassy; adjustment cases use Form I-693 signed by a USCIS civil surgeon. Check current validity rules.
Short answer: You cannot use just any clinic. For consular processing, an embassy-designated panel physician does the exam and sends the results to the consulate. For adjustment of status in the U.S., you use Form I-693 signed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. You pay the physician directly.
Who can perform the exam?
Consular applicants must go to a panel physician listed by the consulate (in Taiwan, the American Institute in Taiwan lists its panel physicians) and follow its booking instructions. The clinic sends the result to the consulate; it is not an I-693.
Applicants adjusting status in the U.S. use Form I-693, which must be completed and signed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. Confirm the current form edition on the USCIS website.
When is the best time to do it?
For consular cases, the exam is normally done before the interview, following NVC or consulate instructions. Too early can create a validity problem, too late can delay the interview. Consular exam results are generally valid for a limited period (typically about 6 months, per the post's instructions). The rules for I-693 validity have changed more than once, so follow current USCIS rules and the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 8, Part B. See our EB-3 process.
What does the exam cover?
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Communicable disease screening | Per official technical instructions (CDC) |
| Vaccinations | Checked against age and records, with missing ones given |
| History and exam | Medical history and physical exam, with extra tests as needed |
| Form | Consular: handled by the clinic. In the U.S.: I-693 |
The CDC technical instructions in force at the time apply. COVID-19 vaccination is currently not a required vaccine; check the latest CDC guidance.
What should I bring?
- Passport and appointment notice
- Vaccination records (complete records reduce repeat shots)
- Photos if requested
- Any existing medical records or medication information
What if I fail the exam?
Some conditions (Class A) can make a person inadmissible, but treatment or a waiver may be available, so it does not always mean you cannot immigrate. Rely on the physician and official classification rather than online anecdotes, and consult an attorney if needed.
Related reading: Who pays EB-3 costs, medical exam and interview, NVC process.
Last updated: 30 October 2026
Questions? admin@usa-eb3.com, WhatsApp +852 6888 4742, LINE oscar_gi.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the medical exam cost?
The panel physician sets the fee, so it varies by clinic, and you pay the physician directly. Ask your clinic for current pricing. See also our [costs article](/en/blog/eb3-unskilled-costs-who-pays/).
How long is the report valid?
Consular results are generally valid for a limited time (typically about 6 months, per the post's instructions). For I-693, follow current USCIS rules.
What if I do not pass?
It depends on the classification and whether treatment or a waiver is possible. Talk to the physician and an attorney before deciding anything.
What if my vaccination records are incomplete?
The physician may require missing vaccines or blood tests as proof. Collect childhood vaccination records early.
Official sources
General information only, not legal advice. Immigration rules and the Visa Bulletin change; check the official sources above before you decide. Petitions are prepared and filed by the sponsoring employer’s licensed U.S. immigration attorney.