The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced the removal of the requirement that civil surgeons sign Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an individual applies for an underlying immigration benefit, such as Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Previously subject to a temporary waiver since December 9, 2021, this policy update aims to simplify the immigration process and reduce confusion.
Improved Adjudication Process
With this policy update, USCIS can now adjudicate cases involving immigration medical examinations that would have been previously considered invalid due to the 60-day rule. Instead of issuing Requests for Evidence (RFEs) for Form I-693 signed more than 60 days before filing the I-485, USCIS can accept these forms for up to 2 years after the date the civil surgeon signed the form.
Stakeholder Concerns Addressed
Applicants, civil surgeons, USCIS officers, federal partners, and other stakeholders have consistently expressed concern over the confusion created by the 60-day rule. While the rule was initially intended to enhance operational efficiency and reduce the need for updated Forms I-693, these efficiencies were not realized in practice. This policy update addresses these concerns by eliminating the confusing requirement.
Simplification of the Process
Civil surgeons no longer need to sign Form I-693 within 60 days before the underlying application for an immigration benefit is filed. This change simplifies the process for applicants and civil surgeons alike.
Official Policy Change
USCIS has published this policy change in the policy manual, consistent with the updated Form I-693 approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This official update ensures that all relevant parties are aware of the change and can adjust their practices accordingly.
Conclusion
The removal of the 60-day rule for Form I-693 is a positive development for those involved in the immigration process. By addressing stakeholder concerns and simplifying the process for civil surgeons and applicants, USCIS aims to improve the overall efficiency of the immigration system.
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please don’t hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by sending an email to info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.