If you are applying for permanent residency or certain types of visas, you will probably need to take an immigration medical exam.
This exam is not just a simple step. It helps make sure that your health meets the rules of the country you want to move to and that you do not have any illnesses that could affect others.
Whether you are getting ready for a U.S. immigration exam or one in Canada or Australia, knowing what to do and what to avoid can help you save time, avoid extra costs, and reduce stress.
Table of Contents
Why Does the Immigration Physical Exam Matters?
Governments use immigration medical exams to check for serious health problems like infectious diseases or missing vaccines.
These exams help protect public health. A special doctor, called a civil surgeon or panel physician, will do the exam. The results can play a big role in whether your visa or residency is approved.
In the U.S., the doctor sends your results using Form I-693 to USCIS. In Canada, they use a form called IMM 1017. Other countries have similar forms and rules.
So, how can you get ready for the exam the right way? Let’s go over what you should do and what you should avoid.
Do’s for Immigration Physical Exam
Gather All Required Documents Ahead of Time
Why it matters: Missing documents are one of the top reasons immigration exams get delayed or rejected.
What to bring:
- Valid photo ID (passport or government-issued ID)
- Vaccination records (original or certified)
- Previous medical records (hospitalizations, chronic illnesses, surgeries)
- List of current medications (names and dosages)
- Immigration-specific forms (like Form I-693 or IMM 1017)
- Payment method (some clinics only accept cash or specific cards)
- Eyeglasses or hearing aids (if you use them regularly)
Pro Tip: Always call the clinic ahead to confirm exactly what they require. Requirements can vary by country and physician.
Schedule Early With a Certified Physician
Why it matters: Only designated doctors can perform immigration medical exams. Using an unauthorized provider may invalidate your results.
Use tools like:
Bonus tip: Appointments can book up weeks in advance. Schedule early to avoid delays in your visa or residency process.
Stay Up to Date on Required Vaccinations
Why it matters: You must meet the vaccination standards set by the destination country. Missing vaccines may result in additional appointments or medical deferrals.
Typical required vaccines:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td or Tdap)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Hepatitis B
- Influenza (seasonal)
- COVID-19 (if applicable)
Helpful advice: If you’re unsure of your vaccination history, get a blood titer test before the exam to prove immunity.
Be Honest About Your Medical History
Why it matters: Hiding conditions like TB, HIV, or mental health disorders can result in further investigation, delays, or denial.
Being upfront allows the physician to assess your case properly. You’re not being judged—just evaluated against public health standards.
Take Care of Your Health Leading Up to the Exam
Eat well, get proper sleep, and stay hydrated the day before. These habits stabilize your vitals and help ensure accurate test results.
Also:
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the exam
- Avoid high-sodium foods that can spike your blood pressure
- Take your regular medications unless advised otherwise
Don’t for Immigration Physical Exam
Forget to Fast (If Required)
Why it matters: Some tests—like blood glucose or lipid panels—require fasting for accurate results. Eating beforehand can lead to invalid results and the need to reschedule.
Ask the clinic in advance if fasting is needed and for how long (usually 8–12 hours).
Arrive With Incomplete Paperwork
Why it matters: Incomplete or outdated documents can prevent the clinic from processing your exam.
Double-check everything the day before:
- Is your ID current?
- Do you have signed copies of forms?
- Did you fill out your part of the immigration form?
- Are your vaccination records translated (if not in English/French)?
Reschedule Too Late
Why it matters: Immigration timelines are strict. Rescheduling your appointment at the last minute could make you miss deadlines for visa interviews or green card filings.
Try to book your exam 30 to 60 days before your immigration submission date. This gives you time to handle any unexpected issues, like missing vaccines or lab delays.
Open the Sealed Envelope
Once the doctor completes your exam, they’ll give you a sealed envelope containing your medical results. It’s meant for the immigration office—do not open it.
Opening it can invalidate the exam and force you to redo it at your own cost.
You’ll usually also receive a copy of your results for personal reference. Keep that for your records.
Provide False Information
It’s tempting to omit sensitive health issues, but doing so can backfire. If USCIS, IRCC, or another immigration body finds discrepancies in your file, it could trigger delays, denials, or even a ban.
Bottom line: Honesty builds trust and ensures accurate medical assessments.
Final Thoughts
The immigration medical exam might seem like just one more thing on your to-do list, but it is an important step.
If you understand what is needed and follow the do’s and don’ts, you can avoid mistakes and keep your application moving forward.
Getting ready means more than just bringing papers. It means being informed, organized, and prepared. When you are ready, the whole process feels much easier and less stressful.
