USCIS COVID‑19 Vaccination Requirement Removed for Green Card Applicants

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that the USCIS COVID‑19 vaccination requirement no longer applies to green card applicants. Effective immediately, applicants are no longer required to submit proof of COVID‑19 vaccination as part of Form I‑693, the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.

As a result of this policy change, USCIS will stop issuing Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) based solely on the absence of COVID‑19 vaccination documentation. In addition, USCIS will no longer deny adjustment‑of‑status applications because an applicant did not provide proof of COVID‑19 vaccination.

How the Policy Change Affects Form I‑693

Form I‑693 is used to document that an applicant has completed the required medical examination and vaccinations. Under the updated guidance, civil surgeons and applicants no longer need to include COVID‑19 vaccination information when submitting the form. This change simplifies the medical documentation process for many applicants seeking lawful permanent resident status.

However, it is important to note that the removal of the COVID‑19 vaccination requirement does not eliminate other existing health requirements. Applicants must still comply with all remaining vaccination mandates as outlined by USCIS and public health authorities.

Authoritative information about Form I‑693 and medical examination requirements is available through USCIS:
Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record | USCIS

Other Vaccination Requirements Remain in Effect

Despite the end of the USCIS COVID‑19 vaccination requirement, USCIS continues to enforce vaccination requirements for other diseases. These include, but are not limited to, polio, measles, hepatitis B, and tetanus. Applicants must still demonstrate compliance with these standard immunizations to be eligible for adjustment of status.

Civil surgeons conducting immigration medical examinations remain responsible for ensuring that applicants meet all applicable vaccination requirements before signing Form I‑693.

Broader Policy Context

This policy update aligns with recent public statements by President Donald Trump opposing vaccine mandates. In his inaugural address, President Trump stated that he planned to reinstate military personnel who were dismissed for refusing COVID‑19 vaccinations and indicated they would receive full back pay. The USCIS policy change reflects a broader shift in federal policy regarding COVID‑19 vaccination mandates.

Applicants should continue to monitor immigration policy announcements, as requirements and procedures may change. Staying informed can help applicants avoid delays and ensure continued compliance with all current USCIS rules.

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Firm Assistance

Immigration application requirements can change quickly and may feel confusing, especially when medical and procedural rules are involved. Margaret Wong & Associates LLC works with individuals and families to help them understand current USCIS requirements and how policy updates may affect their applications. Those seeking additional information or guidance may visit the firm’s contact page.