Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Immigration Physical Exam

Immigrating to a new country is an exciting journey, but it comes with several crucial steps, one of which is completing the immigration physical exam. This mandatory medical assessment ensures that you meet the health requirements set by immigration authorities and do not pose a public health risk.

However, many applicants unknowingly make mistakes that delay their immigration process, lead to rejections, or require them to repeat the exam. To help you avoid these pitfalls, this comprehensive guide covers the most common mistakes people make during the immigration physical exam — and how to steer clear of them.

1. Not Scheduling the Exam with an Authorized Physician

One of the biggest errors applicants make is scheduling their immigration physical exam with a regular doctor instead of an authorized civil surgeon (in the U.S.) or a panel physician (in other countries).

Immigration authorities only accept exam results from doctors who are officially designated and trained to conduct immigration medicals according to government guidelines. If your exam is done by a non-approved doctor, the results will be rejected, and you’ll have to repeat the entire process.

Tip:
Before booking your appointment, verify that your doctor is on the list of authorized physicians provided by your country’s immigration department.

2. Forgetting to Bring Required Documents

Many applicants show up for their immigration physical exam without the necessary paperwork, which delays the process.

Typical documents you must bring include:

A valid passport or government-issued ID

Vaccination and immunization records

Medical history documents, such as previous diagnoses or prescriptions

Immigration forms, like Form I-693 (for U.S. applicants)

Without these, the physician cannot complete your exam or fill out your official medical form.

Tip:
Create a checklist before your appointment to ensure you have every required document ready.

3. Providing Incomplete or Inaccurate Medical History

During the immigration physical exam, honesty is critical. Some applicants try to hide or alter their medical history, thinking it might improve their chances. However, providing false or incomplete information can cause major issues, including delays, re-examinations, or even denial of your immigration application.

Tip:
Be transparent with your doctor about your medical history, medications, surgeries, and chronic conditions. The exam’s purpose is not to disqualify you for manageable conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure—it’s to ensure public safety.

4. Ignoring Vaccination Requirements

Another common mistake is not being up to date on vaccinations. The immigration physical exam includes a review of your immunization records to confirm you have received all mandatory vaccines.

If you lack proof of required vaccinations, your doctor may administer them during the exam, but this could increase your costs or delay your results.

Tip:
Review the official list of required vaccinations for your country’s immigration process beforehand. Bring written proof or certified records of your immunizations to avoid unnecessary delays or duplicate shots.

5. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Schedule the Exam

Timing is crucial when it comes to the immigration physical exam. Some applicants wait until just before their visa interview or application submission to schedule the exam. This can cause unnecessary stress because lab tests may take several days, and doctor appointments may be fully booked.

Tip:
Schedule your immigration physical exam at least 3–4 weeks before your application deadline or interview. This ensures you have enough time for test results and form processing.

6. Not Following Pre-Exam Instructions

Your doctor might provide specific instructions before your immigration physical exam—for example, fasting before blood tests or avoiding certain medications. Ignoring these directions can result in inaccurate results or incomplete testing.

Tip:
Carefully read and follow all instructions your physician provides when you book your appointment. Call ahead if you have questions about food, drink, or medication restrictions before the exam.

7. Arriving Late or Unprepared

Arriving late or unprepared is another mistake that can negatively affect your immigration physical exam experience. Late arrivals may lead to rescheduled appointments or incomplete evaluations.

Tip:
Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early, bring all required documents, and ensure you’re well-rested. This helps your exam go smoothly and avoids rescheduling delays.

8. Not Bringing Proper Identification

Identification is a key requirement for the immigration physical exam. Forgetting your passport or ID can prevent the doctor from verifying your identity, which means they cannot legally complete your medical forms.

Tip:
Always bring your passport or official government-issued ID to the appointment. Double-check that your name matches exactly on all documents.

9. Opening the Sealed Medical Packet

After completing the immigration physical exam, the doctor will give you a sealed envelope containing your official medical results. This envelope is meant for immigration authorities only.

A common mistake is opening the envelope out of curiosity. Doing so will invalidate your results, and you’ll have to repeat the exam at your own expense.

Tip:
Do not open the sealed packet. Instead, deliver it to your immigration officer or include it with your application exactly as instructed.

10. Forgetting to Request a Copy of Your Exam Results

Some applicants leave the clinic without asking for a personal copy of their results. While immigration authorities require the sealed envelope, it’s wise to keep a personal record of your medical report for your own reference.

Tip:
Request a copy of your immigration physical exam results before leaving the clinic. This can help you track your health history and confirm all details were recorded accurately.

11. Neglecting to Disclose Medications or Allergies

During the immigration physical exam, you must disclose any prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or known allergies. Omitting this information can lead to confusion during your evaluation or incorrect assumptions about your health.

Tip:
Bring a list of all medications and supplements you take regularly, including dosages and frequency. This helps the doctor evaluate your health safely and accurately.

12. Misunderstanding What Conditions Affect Eligibility

Many applicants worry that having a chronic illness automatically disqualifies them from immigration. This is a misconception. The immigration physical exam only flags conditions that may pose a public health risk, such as:

Active tuberculosis (TB)

Untreated syphilis or gonorrhea

Certain mental health disorders involving harmful behavior

Drug or substance abuse disorders

Tip:
If you have a treatable condition, bring documentation from your doctor showing that it’s under control. This helps the civil surgeon complete your evaluation accurately.

13. Not Preparing Financially for the Exam

The immigration physical exam is not free and is often not covered by insurance. Many applicants underestimate the total cost, which can include the exam fee, lab tests, X-rays, and vaccines.

Tip:
Confirm the full price in advance when scheduling your appointment. Ask whether vaccines or lab tests are included or billed separately.

14. Not Checking the Validity Period of the Results

Immigration physical exam results are typically valid for one year from the date of completion. Submitting expired results can lead to delays or rejections.

Tip:
Check your exam date carefully and ensure your results are valid at the time of application submission or interview.

15. Not Asking Questions During the Exam

Many applicants stay silent during the immigration physical exam, even if they’re confused or unsure about parts of the process. Failing to clarify details can lead to mistakes or incomplete forms.

Tip:
Ask questions if you’re uncertain about any part of the exam. Authorized doctors are trained to explain the process and guide you through the requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use my family doctor for the immigration physical exam?

No. The exam must be performed by a government-approved civil surgeon or panel physician. Exams from unauthorized doctors are not accepted.

2. What if I’m missing some vaccinations?

You can receive missing vaccinations during your exam. The doctor will update your records so your application remains compliant.

3. How long does the immigration physical exam take?

The exam typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, but lab results may take several days.

4. What if I open my sealed envelope by mistake?

If you open the sealed packet, your results become invalid. You’ll need to retake the entire exam and get a new sealed envelope.

5. How can I prepare for the exam?

Bring all necessary documents, get vaccinated, arrive early, and be honest about your health history. Preparation ensures a smooth and successful process.

Conclusion

The immigration physical exam is a crucial step in your immigration journey — but simple mistakes can cause unnecessary stress, expense, or even rejection. By understanding what to expect and avoiding these common pitfalls, you can complete the process efficiently and confidently.

Plan ahead, follow your doctor’s instructions, and ensure you’re fully prepared with the right documents and information. A well-prepared immigration physical exam experience will bring you one step closer to achieving your dream of living in a new country.