60-day rule for form I-693
Major Policy Change for Form I-693: Understanding the New Validity Rules: One key aspect is the 60-day rule for form I-693 that applicants need to be aware of.
On June 11, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a significant policy alert. It reverses a previous rule giving indefinite validity to Form I-693, the Report of Immigration Medical Examination. This change marks the latest development in a series of policy shifts over the last few years, including the introduction of the 60-day rule for form I-693. Therefore, applicants for adjustment of status must now pay closer attention to the timing of their medical exams.
What is Form I-693?
Form I-693 is the official record of a medical examination conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. It’s a required component for most applicants filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (the green card application). The form ensures that an applicant does not have any health-related conditions that would make them inadmissible to the United States, adhering to the 60-day rule for form I-693.
The Evolution of the I-693 Validity Rule
The validity period for Form I-693 has been a source of confusion, leading to several policy changes.
A Period of Indefinite Validity: For forms signed on or after November 1, 2023, USCIS went a step further. They announced that the form would have an indefinite validity period. This was justified by new electronic data-sharing capabilities between civil surgeons and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The Old “60-Day Rule”: For years, applicants faced a strict requirement. The civil surgeon had to sign Form I-693 no more than 60 days before the applicant filed their Form I-485. Knowing the 60-day rule for Form I-693 was crucial to avoid filing errors.
Elimination of the Rule (2023): Following a temporary waiver, USCIS permanently eliminated the 60-day rule on March 31, 2023.
The June 2025 Reversal:
The latest policy alert from June 11, 2025, reverses the indefinite validity rule for some applications. While the specifics of the new validity period are still being detailed, this means that the signature date on the Form I-693 is once again a critical factor. An older medical exam may now be considered expired by the time a USCIS officer makes a decision on the case, particularly impacting the 60-day rule for form I-693 compliance.
What Applicants Should Do Now
Given this policy reversal, applicants should be strategic about the timing of their medical examination.
Consult an Attorney: Navigating these frequent policy shifts can be challenging. Consulting with an experienced immigration attorney is the best way to ensure your application is compliant and avoids unnecessary delays.
Check Official Guidance: Always consult the official USCIS website and the policy manual for the most up-to-date rules on I-693 validity before scheduling your exam.
Strategic Timing: It may be wise to wait until you are ready to file your I-485, or even until USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, to complete your medical exam. This reduces the risk of the form expiring.