The green card medical examination is an important step of the immigration process and is required for all family members seeking a family-based green card. The exam, to be completed by a government-authorized doctor, consists of several parts:
- A review of your medical history and immunization records
- A physical and mental evaluation
- Drug and alcohol screening
- Tests for various diseases and illnesses
The purpose of the green card medical exam is to ensure that the relative seeking a green card has no health condition that could make them “inadmissible” to the United States — meaning they’re ineligible to receive a green card.
Many green card applicants get nervous about this step of the process, and that’s normal. But there’s no need to worry! Adequate preparation can make the entire exam less stressful and also help you avoid any issues that could delay or cause denial of your green card application. Plus, it’s rare to fail the medical exam. And even if you do have a condition that might complicate your green card application, you can often request a waiver.