When you're applying for a green card or adjusting your immigration status in the U.S., one important step is completing the immigration medical exam. And to do that, you’ll need to find a certified civil surgeon—also known as a USCIS-approved doctor. If you're in Las Vegas, NV, this blog will walk you through how to find the right doctor and what you need to know before booking your appointment.
Before diving into the “how,” let’s talk about what the immigration physical exam is. It’s a required health check by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to ensure that applicants do not have any medical conditions that would make them inadmissible to the country. This includes checking for infectious diseases, updating your vaccination records, and evaluating your mental and physical health.
Only USCIS-certified doctors, called civil surgeons, can perform this exam.
1. Use the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator Tool
The most trusted way to find a certified doctor is through the USCIS Civil Surgeon Locator. Just enter your zip code or “Las Vegas, NV,” and it’ll give you a list of certified doctors in your area. This tool is always updated, so it’s your safest bet.
2. Check Reviews and Compare Clinics
Once you have the list of doctors, don’t just pick the first one. Take a few minutes to:
Not all clinics charge the same or offer the same level of service. It’s worth checking before you book.
3. Ask About Same-Day Appointments
Some Las Vegas clinics offer same-day or next-day appointments, which can be helpful if you’re in a rush. Make sure to call ahead and confirm availability, especially during busy immigration seasons.
4. Confirm They Offer I-693 Form Completion
The doctor must complete Form I-693, which you’ll submit to USCIS. Ask the clinic if they handle this part correctly, including sealing the envelope. If not sealed properly, USCIS may reject it.
When visiting your certified doctor, make sure to bring:
Some clinics will provide the form, but it’s always good to have it just in case.
The cost of an immigration medical exam in Las Vegas can vary between $180–$350, depending on:
Always ask for a breakdown of what’s included in the total fee.
The exam itself usually takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour. However, getting your sealed I-693 results back can take anywhere from 3–7 business days, depending on how fast the lab returns your test results.
If everything checks out, you’ll get your sealed envelope and a copy for your records.
Las Vegas has many clinics and doctors, but not all are familiar with the paperwork and requirements of USCIS. Choosing a doctor who regularly handles immigration medical exams will make the process much smoother.
👉 [Click here] to find trusted immigration medical exam providers near you.
Q1: Can I use my own primary care doctor?
No. Only a USCIS-certified civil surgeon can perform and sign off on the green card medical exam.
Q2: Will I need vaccinations?
Yes. The doctor will check your vaccination history and may give you missing vaccines to meet USCIS requirements.
Q3: Do I need to fast before the exam?
Usually not, but if blood tests are required, the clinic may advise you to fast. Call them ahead of time to be sure.
Q4: What if I don’t pass the exam?
If you have a treatable condition, like TB or missing vaccinations, the doctor will advise on how to fix the issue before submitting your form. Serious health concerns may require follow-up or explanation.
Q5: Can I get a copy of my medical exam results?
Yes, always ask for a copy for your own records. But remember—USCIS requires the official I-693 to be sealed. Don’t open it.
Finding a certified immigration doctor in Las Vegas doesn't have to be stressful. Use the official USCIS tool, do a bit of research, and bring the right documents. That way, you’ll breeze through this important step of your green card medical exam.
Whether you’re applying for adjustment of status or helping a family member through the process, the immigration physical exam is key to moving forward—and finding the right doctor makes all the difference.