3 Tips to Prepare for Your Immigration Physical

3 Tips to Prepare for Your Immigration Physical

Immigrating legally into the United States requires many complicated and time-consuming steps, and one of the first boxes to check is getting your immigration physical. This part of your citizenship journey can be the simplest, but only if you come prepared.  

We understand how overwhelming this process can be and how important it is to get every step right. We’re proud to partner with you and help you through the beginning stages.

Our team and Optimal Performance Medicine, led by USCIS-certified civil surgeon Dr. Michael Skardasis, specializes in helping people fulfill the health requirements necessary for permanent, legal residence in the US. 

Here's a closer look at how it all works.

The basics of immigration physicals

Immigration physicals differ from a regular check-up with your primary care physician. To ensure you’re eligible for a green card, you must be evaluated and cleared by a USCIS-certified civil surgeon like Dr. Skardasis. 

He conducts thorough immigration physicals to check for health concerns that might make you inadmissible. So, your immigration physical includes ensuring that you’re up-to-date on all required vaccinations and that you don’t have any infectious diseases.

Missing specific vaccinations is often one of the biggest hurdles in the immigration process and can delay or deny your green card, so Dr. Skardasis checks to make sure you have received the required vaccinations, including:

We can provide all standard vaccinations in the office if you're missing a vaccination. Dr. Skardasis can also conduct routine blood work if necessary. Dr. Skardasis completes and signs the USCIS medical form once he’s determined that your health information is accurate. 

To make the process as smooth as possible, here are a few tips to help you prepare for your immigration physical:

1. Bring the necessary identification

We need all of your identification paperwork to complete your physical. Make sure you bring official identification with you, such as a passport or other government-issued ID.

2. Be ready to discuss your medical history

Dr. Skardasis will review your medical history with you, so bring along any relevant documents or certificates, such as vaccination records, medication lists, and other mental and physical health history information.

3. Have a plan for communication

We conduct your physical in English, so if you’re uncomfortable speaking English or need a translator, bring one to your appointment.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your immigration physical goes smoothly and that you’re well-prepared to begin your journey toward permanent residency in the US. 

If you’d like more information about the process or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Skardasis, please contact our Woodstock, Georgia, office by phone or online.

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