The phrase green card medical exam has a way of making perfectly calm people suddenly feel nervous. Paperwork, appointments, requirements you’re not totally sure about, can all sound a little overwhelming. We see it all the time at Greenleaf Medical Associates. Patients walk in holding folders, double-checking their documents, hoping they didn’t forget something important. And honestly, that reaction is completely normal. The immigration process is already stressful enough, so adding a medical exam to the mix can feel like one more big hurdle to clear.
The good news? The green card medical exam really isn’t as scary or complicated as it sounds. As long as you come prepared, it’s usually pretty straightforward.
To make things easier, we created a simple, step-by-step checklist to help you arrive fully prepared.
First Things First: What Is the Green Card Medical Exam?
Before we jump into the checklist, let’s clear up what this exam actually is.
The green card medical exam is a required health screening for anyone applying for permanent residency in the U.S. The purpose is to make sure applicants don’t have certain medical conditions that could affect public health or make them inadmissible under immigration rules.
That sounds dramatic, but in reality, it’s mostly a routine physical exam with a few extra steps.
And no, you don’t have to be in perfect health to pass.
The Official (But Simple) Green Card Checklist
Here’s everything you should bring with you to your appointment:
1. A Valid Photo ID
This one is easy, but it’s also the most commonly forgotten.
Bring a government-issued photo ID, such as:
- Passport
- Driver’s license
- State ID
We need to confirm your identity before anything else can happen. Without ID, we can’t move forward.
2. Your Immigration Paperwork
For most applicants, this means Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
If you already have the form from your attorney or immigration office, bring it with you. If not, don’t panic, we can usually help you with that part.
Just don’t show up empty-handed if you’ve already been given paperwork. It slows things down and may mean you need a second visit.
3. Vaccination Records
This is a big one.
Immigration requires proof that you’ve received certain vaccines. If you have records from:
- Your home country
- Previous doctors
- Schools
- Military service
Bring them all.
Even an old, slightly crumpled vaccination card stuffed in a drawer somewhere can be incredibly helpful.
If you don’t have records, that’s okay too. We can review what you need and help you get up to date. But having documentation can save you time, money, and extra shots.
4. A List of Medications You’re Taking
You don’t need to bring the actual bottles (though that’s fine if it helps).
Just write down:
- The names of your medications
- The doses
- How often do you take them
This helps our medical team get a clear picture of your overall health.
5. Any Relevant Medical Records
If you’ve had major surgeries, chronic illnesses, or ongoing treatments, it’s a good idea to bring related records.
For example:
- Diabetes reports
- Heart condition documentation
- Mental health treatment history
- Past hospitalizations
None of this automatically disqualifies you. The goal is simply to provide accurate information.
6. Glasses or Contact Lenses
There will be a basic vision screening as part of the exam, so if you normally wear glasses or contacts, bring them along.
It sounds small, but people forget this one all the time.
7. Payment Method
The green card medical exam is not usually covered by regular health insurance, so plan for the cost.
We’ll always be upfront with you about fees, but it helps to come prepared so there are no surprises.
What Happens During the Exam?
This is another question we hear constantly.
Most people imagine something intense and uncomfortable. In reality, it’s very similar to a normal physical.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Review of your medical history
- Basic physical exam
- Blood test
- Tuberculosis screening
- Vaccination review
- Mental health and substance use questions
That’s basically it.
No trick questions. No hidden traps. Just standard medical steps required by immigration.
We try to make the process as relaxed and friendly as possible. After all, you’ve probably got enough stress in your life already.
Common Worries We Hear (And Why You Can Relax)
Over the years, patients have confessed all kinds of fears to us:
- “What if I have high blood pressure?”
- “I had surgery years ago. Will that be a problem?”
- “My English isn’t perfect. Will that affect anything?”
Take a deep breath.
Most everyday health issues do NOT prevent you from passing the green card medical exam. Our job isn’t to judge you; it’s to complete the required evaluation accurately and professionally.
And if English isn’t your first language, that’s completely fine. We work with people from all backgrounds and cultures every single day.
A Few Practical Tips From Experience
Since we’ve done this exam more times than we can count, here are a few insider tips:
- Eat normally before your appointment unless told otherwise
- Arrive a little early to avoid feeling rushed
- Double-check your documents the night before
- Don’t overthink it seriously
Treat it like any other doctor visit, and you’ll be just fine.
Why Choose Greenleaf Medical Associates?
We know you have options when it comes to getting your green card medical exam done.
Here’s what makes our clinic different:
- Friendly, experienced medical staff
- Clear instructions with no confusion
- Respectful, judgment-free environment
- Fast and organized process
- Convenient Illinois location
We’ve helped countless patients through this exact process, and we understand how important it is to you and your family.
More Than Just Immigration Exams
While many people come to us for their green card medical exam, that’s only one part of what we do.
At Greenleaf Medical Associates, we’re a full-service primary care clinic here to support your overall health and wellness. Our services include:
- Primary Care – routine checkups, chronic condition management, and personalized healthcare
- Preventive Care – physicals, screenings, and vaccines to keep you healthy
- Weight Loss Programs – medically supervised plans to help you feel your best
- Botox Treatments – safe, professional cosmetic services to boost confidence
So whether you need immigration paperwork completed or just a reliable healthcare home, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to Check This Off Your List?
Getting your green card is a huge step toward your future. Don’t let the medical exam be the part that stresses you out.
We’ll make it simple, clear, and maybe even a little less painful than you expect.
Schedule your green card medical exam with Greenleaf Medical Associates today and get one step closer to the life you’re building.
Your future is waiting. Let’s take care of the details together.