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USCIS Waives COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Green Card Applicants

  • By: Immigration Attorney Osas Iyamu
  • Published: January 24, 2025
USCIS COVID-19 vaccination requirement waiver

USCIS Eliminates COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Green Card Applicants Filing Adjustment of Status

Effective January 22, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officially waived the requirement for applicants filing for adjustment of status (green card applications) to submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination as part of their Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.

This significant change simplifies the green card application process, removing a major hurdle for applicants seeking to adjust their status in the United States.

What Does This Mean for Adjustment of Status Green Card Applicants?

USCIS no longer requires green card applicants to provide documentation proving they received the COVID-19 vaccination on Form I-693, which is a critical part of the immigration medical examination process.

Key updates include:

  • No Requests for Evidence (RFE): USCIS will not issue RFEs for missing COVID-19 vaccination documentation.
  • No Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID): Green card applications will not face NOIDs related to the absence of COVID-19 vaccination records.
  • No Denials Based on COVID-19 Vaccine Documentation: USCIS will not deny adjustment of status green card applications due to failure to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

This policy applies to all green card applications pending or filed on or after January 22, 2025.

Does This Policy Apply to Immigrant Visa Applicants at U.S. Embassies?

It is important to note that this policy applies only to adjustment of status (green card) applications processed within the United States by USCIS. It does not extend to immigrant visa applicants undergoing consular processing at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.

Immigrant visa applicants must still meet the medical examination and vaccination requirements, including the COVID-19 vaccine, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of State.

Applicants undergoing consular processing should confirm vaccination requirements with their specific U.S. embassy or consulate. Additionally, they are encouraged to monitor updates from the Department of State, as vaccination requirements may change. Visit the Department of State’s official website for more information: travel.state.gov.

How Does This Impact Immigration Medical Exams?

The Form I-693 immigration medical examination remains a crucial part of the adjustment of status process. While the COVID-19 vaccine is no longer required, applicants must still fulfill other vaccination requirements, such as those for measles, mumps, rubella, and other CDC-mandated vaccines.

To avoid any issues, applicants should consult a designated civil surgeon to ensure compliance with all other medical requirements for adjustment of status.

Why the Policy Change?

USCIS has not provided detailed reasoning for this change. However, the update appears to reflect evolving public health guidelines and priorities, aiming to streamline processes and focus on critical aspects of immigration benefits adjudication.

What Should Green Card Applicants Do?

Although the COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required, green card applicants must still:

  1. Complete all other required vaccinations and medical tests as part of the immigration medical examination.
  2. Work with a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon to complete Form I-693 accurately.
  3. Stay updated on any additional USCIS requirements.

For the latest information, visit USCIS.gov.

Implications for Immigration Attorneys and Green Card Applicants

This policy change is beneficial for both immigration attorneys and applicants. The removal of the COVID-19 vaccination requirement simplifies the adjustment of status process and reduces delays caused by RFEs or NOIDs for missing vaccine documentation.

However, it remains critical for applicants to meet all other medical and procedural requirements related to the immigration medical examination. Failing to comply with these requirements could still result in application delays or complications.

Conclusion

The removal of the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for adjustment of status green card applicants is a welcome update. However, applicants for immigrant visas at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad must continue to comply with vaccination requirements, including COVID-19.

It is essential to monitor updates from the Department of State for any changes that may impact the application process. Staying informed ensures a smoother experience for both green card and immigrant visa applicants.

If you need assistance navigating your green card application, immigration medical examination, or immigrant visa process, contact the Law Offices of Osas Iyamu, LLC for professional guidance.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Always consult with a qualified immigration attorney regarding your specific situation.

Osas Iyamu

Distance Is No Barrier, Call Us Now!
(800) 974-6480
(352) 237-2403