For anyone planning to immigrate to the United States, understanding the vaccination requirements is a crucial part of the journey. The U.S. immigration process includes a mandatory medical examination by an approved civil surgeon, and part of this exam involves ensuring that the applicant has received certain vaccines. These immunizations are considered essential for public health and are required for all applicants seeking permanent residency. The list of vaccines needed to immigrate to the USA can vary slightly depending on the applicant’s age, medical history, and current health guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
General Vaccine Requirements for U.S. Immigration
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) follows recommendations provided by the CDC to determine which vaccines are required for immigration. All applicants applying for adjustment of status or an immigrant visa must receive vaccinations that are age-appropriate and consistent with current medical standards. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in delays or denial of an immigration application unless a valid exemption applies.
Vaccines Commonly Required for Immigration
Here is a list of vaccines generally required for individuals immigrating to the USA. These vaccines are updated periodically, so it is important to check with a licensed civil surgeon or the official USCIS guidelines before the medical exam:
- COVID-19 Vaccine (as of recent requirements)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Influenza (seasonal flu)
- Influenza type b (Hib)
- Measles
- Meningococcal
- Mumps
- Pneumococcal
- Polio
- Rotavirus
- Rubella
- Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids
- Varicella (chickenpox)
Each vaccine requirement depends on the applicant’s age group and the availability of the vaccine. For instance, rotavirus is only recommended for infants, while shingles vaccine may not be required for younger individuals.
COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. has included COVID-19 vaccination as part of the mandatory immunizations for immigration. Applicants must be fully vaccinated with a CDC- or WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccine. Documentation proving completion of the required doses is necessary. In some cases, waivers can be granted for medical or religious reasons, but these must be formally approved and documented by USCIS.
What Counts as Fully Vaccinated?
To meet the immigration requirement, applicants must receive all recommended doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine. The civil surgeon must document the brand, date of administration, and any supporting evidence in the medical report (Form I-693).
Proof of Vaccination
Applicants must present a certified vaccination record, which should include the type of vaccine, the date it was administered, and the name of the health care provider or clinic. If no records are available, the applicant may be advised to receive the required vaccines again or undergo blood tests (titers) to prove immunity to certain diseases.
What Happens If You Don’t Have All Vaccinations?
If the applicant does not have all required vaccinations, the civil surgeon can administer the necessary vaccines during the immigration medical examination. In some cases, additional follow-up appointments might be required to complete vaccine series that span multiple doses over several weeks or months.
Medical and Religious Exemptions
There are two major exemptions that may apply for vaccine requirements:
- Medical Exemption: If the applicant has a medical condition that makes vaccination harmful or inappropriate (e.g., severe allergy to a vaccine component), the civil surgeon can note the exemption on the medical form.
- Religious or Moral Exemption: Applicants with deeply held religious beliefs or moral objections can apply for a waiver. This is a separate process and requires approval from USCIS, not the civil surgeon.
Applicants should be prepared to provide detailed documentation and, if necessary, undergo additional screening as part of the waiver application process.
Age-Based Vaccine Guidelines
The CDC provides specific immunization schedules depending on the applicant’s age. Here is a simplified overview:
- Infants and Children: Required to have vaccines like DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis), Hib, Polio, Rotavirus, MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), and Varicella.
- Teenagers: Additional boosters and vaccines like Meningococcal and Hepatitis A/B may be required.
- Adults: Depending on prior vaccine history, adults may need MMR, Tetanus boosters, Influenza (especially if applying during flu season), and COVID-19 vaccine.
Age-appropriateness is key. The civil surgeon uses the immunization chart to determine which vaccines the applicant must receive or provide proof for, based on age at the time of the exam.
How to Prepare for the Immigration Medical Exam
To avoid unnecessary delays, it’s important to gather the following documents before the appointment with the civil surgeon:
- Personal identification (passport, visa, or government-issued ID)
- Vaccination records with dates and official signatures
- List of current medications and past medical history
- Records of previous positive TB tests or treatment (if applicable)
It’s a good idea to get copies of your immunization records translated into English if they are in a different language. Only certified translators should be used for this purpose to ensure USCIS accepts the documentation.
Where to Get the Required Vaccines
If you are missing any vaccines, you may receive them from the civil surgeon during the medical exam or beforehand at a clinic or health provider. Be sure to bring any updated vaccine documents to your immigration appointment. The cost of vaccines may vary, and some health insurance plans do not cover immunizations for immigration purposes, so check in advance.
Vaccination is a non-negotiable part of the U.S. immigration process. Understanding which vaccines are needed to immigrate to the USA can help applicants avoid unexpected delays and ensure their application proceeds smoothly. With proper preparation, up-to-date immunization records, and guidance from an authorized civil surgeon, this step can be completed without difficulty. Always consult current CDC guidelines and speak to your immigration advisor to stay informed about any updates to vaccine requirements.