USCIS has announced that it will not require applicants to file their medical report within 60 days of the civil surgeon signing the I-693. This is effective December 9, 2021 and will remain the case until September 30, 2022.

Previously, USCIS had required applicants applying for adjustment of status to submit their medical report within 60 days of the I-693 being signed. Therefore, if more than 60 days passed after obtaining a medical USCIS would not accept it and the applicant would be required to obtain a new one.

This temporary waiver is intended to help those affected by the current pandemic. However, USCIS has stated that it is still in the best interest of the applicant to undergo the medical examination close to the filing of the I-485, application to adjust status, especially as the medical is only valid for 2 years from the date of the civil surgeon’s signature. This means if the applicant’s case is still pending after 2 years it will be necessary for the applicant to obtain a new medical report. USCIS will typically issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) for a new medical when they are ready to adjudicate the case.

For questions related to the above or any other immigration matter please e-mail PLG Partner Chris Prescott at cprescott@patellegal.com