USCIS Communication & Stakeholder Relations 5 ā Questions and Answers
Question 1: If an applicant submits a Form I-693 that USCIS determines has expired, what is the typical agency response?
- USCIS automatically extends the validity period as a courtesy
- USCIS may issue an RFE requiring the applicant to submit a new, current medical examination (Correct answer)
- The immigration application is immediately and automatically denied
- USCIS contacts the civil surgeon directly to request a retroactive date extension
Correct answer: USCIS may issue an RFE requiring the applicant to submit a new, current medical examination
An expired Form I-693 generally triggers an RFE, giving the applicant an opportunity to obtain and submit a new examination.
Question 2: How long is a completed Form I-693 generally valid for use in an immigration application?
- 6 months from the date the civil surgeon signs it
- 1 year from the date the civil surgeon signs it
- 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs it (Correct answer)
- Indefinitely, as long as the applicant's health status has not changed
Correct answer: 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs it
Under current USCIS policy, Form I-693 is valid for 2 years from the date of the civil surgeon's signature.
Question 3: When USCIS needs clarification from a civil surgeon about specific findings on Form I-693, how is this communication typically initiated?
- A USCIS officer phones the civil surgeon's office directly
- An RFE is issued to the applicant, who then works with the civil surgeon to provide clarification (Correct answer)
- The CDC sends a formal inquiry to the civil surgeon on USCIS's behalf
- USCIS sends a subpoena requiring the civil surgeon to appear in person
Correct answer: An RFE is issued to the applicant, who then works with the civil surgeon to provide clarification
USCIS channels its requests through the applicant via an RFE rather than contacting the civil surgeon directly in most circumstances.
Question 4: What action does USCIS typically take if a sealed Form I-693 envelope appears to have been tampered with upon receipt?
- Accept it and proceed with adjudication regardless of the condition
- Reject it and require the applicant to obtain a new examination with a properly sealed form (Correct answer)
- Forward it to the CDC for integrity verification
- Fine the civil surgeon for improper sealing procedures
Correct answer: Reject it and require the applicant to obtain a new examination with a properly sealed form
A tampered envelope undermines the integrity of the medical examination results, so USCIS may reject the form and require a new sealed submission.
Question 5: Why is careful documentation of civil surgeonāapplicant communication especially important during the immigration medical examination process?
- It allows USCIS to audit all civil surgeon appointment schedules
- It protects both parties, supports accurate reporting on Form I-693, and creates a record if questions arise later (Correct answer)
- It satisfies CDC record retention requirements exclusively
- It enables state health departments to conduct routine audits of civil surgeon practices
Correct answer: It protects both parties, supports accurate reporting on Form I-693, and creates a record if questions arise later
Thorough documentation ensures the integrity of the examination process, supports accurate Form I-693 completion, and provides an evidentiary record if disputes arise.
Question 6: If a civil surgeon's USCIS designation is revoked before an applicant's scheduled examination, what must the applicant do?
- Ask USCIS to waive the medical examination requirement in light of the situation
- Schedule an appointment with a currently designated civil surgeon (Correct answer)
- Proceed with the exam anyway, since the designation is honored for previously booked appointments
- File a complaint with the state medical licensing board to compel the exam
Correct answer: Schedule an appointment with a currently designated civil surgeon
Only currently designated civil surgeons may perform immigration medical exams, so the applicant must find and see a civil surgeon whose designation is active.
Question 7: Under what circumstances might USCIS communicate directly with a civil surgeon about a specific immigration medical examination?
- Never; USCIS policy prohibits all direct contact with civil surgeons
- When investigating potential fraud, improper examination practices, or verifying the authenticity of submitted documentation (Correct answer)
- As a standard step in every case before adjudication is completed
- Only when the applicant is a minor and parental consent is in question
Correct answer: When investigating potential fraud, improper examination practices, or verifying the authenticity of submitted documentation
USCIS may contact civil surgeons directly during fraud investigations or when verifying questionable documentation, though routine communication flows through the applicant.
USCIS Communication & Stakeholder Relations 5
If an applicant submits a Form I-693 that USCIS determines has expired, what is the typical agency response?