Introduction
If you are applying for a green card or adjusting your immigration status in the United States, completing a medical examination is a mandatory part of the process. One of the most important components of that exam involves meeting the USCIS Vaccination Requirements.
Many applicants in New Jersey have questions such as:
Which vaccines are mandatory?
What if I already received vaccinations in another country?
Can I get vaccines during the appointment?
What happens if I refuse a vaccine?
This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about vaccination rules, documentation, exemptions, age-based requirements, and how to avoid delays in your immigration case.
Why Are Vaccines Required for Immigration?
The vaccination requirement is based on U.S. immigration law designed to protect public health. The exam must be conducted by a civil surgeon authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The purpose of including vaccinations in the immigration medical exam is to:
Prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases
Protect U.S. communities
Ensure applicants meet national health standards
Reduce strain on the healthcare system
Failure to meet the USCIS Vaccination Requirements can result in delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), or even denial of your adjustment of status application.
What Are the Current USCIS Vaccination Requirements?
The required vaccines are determined by guidelines from the CDC and may change over time. The civil surgeon will evaluate your age, medical history, and prior immunizations before determining what you need.
Below is the list of vaccines commonly required for immigration medical exams:
1. COVID-19 Vaccine
Protects against severe illness caused by the coronavirus and is required for most immigration applicants unless medically exempt.
2. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Provides immunity against three highly contagious viral diseases and is required for most applicants born after 1957.
3. Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td or Tdap)
Protects against bacterial infections affecting the nervous system and throat, with booster doses typically required every 10 years.
4. Varicella (Chickenpox)
Required unless you have documented proof of vaccination or confirmed history of prior infection.
5. Polio
Prevents a potentially disabling viral infection that can cause paralysis, especially in children.
6. Hepatitis A
7. Hepatitis B
8. Influenza (Flu Shot)
Required during flu season (generally October through March).
9. Pneumococcal Vaccine
Age-specific requirement.
10. Meningococcal Vaccine
11. Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (Hib)
12. Rotavirus (for infants)
Not every applicant must receive all vaccines. The USCIS Vaccination Requirements are age-dependent and medically appropriate based on CDC schedules.
Age-Based Vaccine Guidelines
One of the most misunderstood parts of immigration medical exams is that vaccines vary by age group.
Infants and Children
Children may require additional vaccines such as:
Rotavirus
Hib
Hepatitis A
MMR
Varicella
Adults (18–64 Years)
Adults commonly need:
Tdap booster
MMR (if not immune)
Varicella (if no immunity)
Hepatitis B
COVID-19
Seniors (65+ Years)
Older adults may require:
Pneumococcal vaccine
Influenza vaccine
Tdap booster
During your immigration physical exam in New Jersey, the civil surgeon reviews CDC age charts to determine compliance with USCIS Vaccination Requirements.
What If You Already Received Vaccines Abroad?
Many immigrants have received vaccinations in their home countries. The good news is that prior vaccines count — as long as you provide proper documentation.
Acceptable vaccination records include:
Official immunization cards
School records
Physician or hospital documentation
Government health records
If records are unclear or incomplete, the civil surgeon may recommend blood tests (titers) to confirm immunity.
Without documentation, you may need to repeat vaccines to satisfy USCIS Vaccination Requirements.
Can You Get Vaccines During the Immigration Exam?
Yes. Most civil surgeon clinics in New Jersey provide required vaccines during the same visit.
This is often the easiest way to complete your immigration medical exam because:
No additional appointments are required
Vaccines are documented immediately
Form I-693 is completed without delay
Receiving vaccines on-site ensures full compliance with USCIS Vaccination Requirements before your sealed paperwork is issued.
Understanding Form I-693
Form I-693 is the official Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
The vaccination section of this form documents:
Vaccines received
Vaccines medically inappropriate
Laboratory confirmation of immunity
Approved waivers
The civil surgeon signs and seals the form. It must remain sealed when submitted to USCIS.
Incomplete vaccination documentation can result in an RFE, which delays your immigration process.
What Happens If You Refuse a Vaccine?
If you refuse a required vaccine without an approved waiver, USCIS may determine that you are inadmissible on public health grounds.
There are only limited exceptions.
Medical Waivers
You may qualify if:
You have a severe allergic reaction
A vaccine is medically contraindicated
Pregnancy prevents certain immunizations
Religious or Moral Waivers
Applicants may apply for a waiver if vaccines conflict with sincerely held religious beliefs. However:
The waiver must be formally requested
USCIS must approve it
Approval is not guaranteed
The safest way to avoid complications is to comply fully with USCIS Vaccination Requirements unless medically unable.
Do Vaccination Rules Ever Change?
Yes. The CDC updates immunization guidelines periodically.
For example:
COVID-19 vaccination requirements were added in recent years.
Seasonal influenza requirements apply only during specific months.
Because rules change, it is important to schedule your immigration medical exam with a civil surgeon who stays updated on current USCIS Vaccination Requirements.
What to Expect During Your Immigration Physical in New Jersey
When you schedule your immigration medical exam in New Jersey, your appointment typically includes:
Review of medical history
Physical examination
Tuberculosis screening
Blood tests (if required)
Vaccination record review
Administration of missing vaccines
Completion of Form I-693
The vaccination review is one of the most important sections of the exam.
Being prepared with proper records reduces stress and speeds up approval.
Common Reasons for Vaccination Delays
Applicants often experience delays due to:
Missing immunization records
Incorrect vaccine documentation
Visiting a non-authorized physician
Forgetting seasonal flu requirements
Not completing required booster doses
Ensuring compliance with USCIS Vaccination Requirements during your first visit helps avoid repeat appointments.
How Long Is the Immigration Medical Exam Valid?
Once properly completed and signed, Form I-693 is generally valid for two years under current USCIS policy (if filed within required timeframes).
If vaccination requirements are incomplete, your form may not be valid for submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are childhood vaccines enough?
Not always. You may require boosters or additional vaccines depending on age.
Can immunity through illness count?
Yes. For example, documented history of chickenpox may waive the need for varicella vaccination.
What if I am pregnant?
Certain vaccines may be postponed, and the civil surgeon will note this appropriately.
Do all green card applicants need vaccines?
Yes, unless they qualify for a medical or religious exemption.
Preparing for Your Immigration Medical Exam in New Jersey
To ensure smooth compliance with USCIS Vaccination Requirements, bring:
Government-issued ID
Passport
Vaccination records
Prior medical records (if relevant)
Any previous Form I-693 (if applicable)
Being organized helps your appointment proceed efficiently.
Why Choosing an Experienced Provider Matters
An experienced civil surgeon in New Jersey understands:
Current CDC immunization tables
USCIS policy updates
Proper documentation procedures
How to avoid RFEs
Working with a knowledgeable provider ensures that your vaccination documentation is accurate and properly recorded.
Final Thoughts
Meeting the USCIS Vaccination Requirements is a crucial step in the immigration process. While the list of vaccines may seem extensive, most applicants already meet many of the requirements or can complete missing vaccines during their appointment.
Understanding age-based guidelines, bringing proper documentation, and working with an experienced civil surgeon in New Jersey can help ensure your immigration medical exam is completed smoothly and without delay.
If you are preparing for an adjustment of status, taking the time to understand vaccination requirements now can prevent complications later and keep your immigration journey on track.