UNITED STATES: The process for immigration medical exams has undergone a few updates now that the COVID-19 vaccine mandate has been removed. Here’s what’s changed:
Civil surgeons are no longer required to check an applicant’s COVID-19 vaccination status. The sections on Form I-693 concerning COVID-19 vaccines can be left unfilled. Applicants who have proof of past COVID-19 vaccinations are not required to submit it.The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a major change for people seeking lawful permanent residency. Starting January 22, 2025, applicants will no longer be required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination as part of their Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
With this new policy, USCIS will not request additional evidence or issue denial notices solely due to the absence of COVID-19 vaccination documentation. Applications for adjustment of status will no longer be rejected based on this specific requirement.
Background
The United States initially implemented COVID-19 vaccine mandates for nonimmigrants entering the country by air in November 2021, and by land in January 2022. However, with the public health emergency now officially over, these mandates for travelers are also being lifted.
Implications for Green Card Applicants
While the COVID-19 vaccine requirement has been removed for adjustment of status applicants, foreign nationals seeking permanent residency are still required to meet other vaccination mandates. This includes vaccines for diseases such as polio, measles, hepatitis B, and tetanus, as part of their medical examination. Applicants may also qualify for exceptions in certain cases.
According to USCIS, the agency will no longer issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) for missing COVID-19 vaccination records. This change signals a departure from the October 2021 policy under President Joe Biden, which introduced the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for green card applicants.
President Trump’s Position on Vaccine Mandates
Newly-elected President Donald Trump reiterated his opposition to vaccine mandates during his inaugural speech. He pledged to reinstate military personnel who were dismissed for refusing COVID-19 vaccinations and promised to ensure they receive full back pay. Additionally, Trump emphasized his administration's goal of removing political influence from military operations to prioritize national defense.