The COVID-19 vaccine is no longer a requirement for U.S. permanent resident applications. Starting January 22, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially removed the pandemic-era vaccination mandate from its immigration medical examination requirements. This article explains what this policy change means for your immigration process.
Key Changes to COVID-19 Vaccination Policy
The removal of the COVID-19 vaccine requirement brings several important changes:
- USCIS will not request COVID-19 vaccination documentation on Form I-693
- No additional evidence about COVID-19 vaccination status will be requested
- Applications won’t face denial for lacking COVID-19 vaccine records
- Previous COVID-19 vaccination requirements are now waived
Medical Examination Updates
While the COVID-19 vaccine requirement has been eliminated, the immigration medical exam process continues with some adjustments:
- Civil surgeons no longer need to verify COVID-19 vaccination status
- Form I-693 sections related to COVID-19 vaccines can be left blank
- Applicants with previous COVID-19 vaccine documentation don’t need to include it
Vaccination Requirements
USCIS still requires several standard vaccinations for permanent residence applications, though COVID-19 vaccination is no longer among them. These include common vaccines like MMR and others recommended by U.S. public health authorities.
Stay current with changing immigration requirements – Boundless monitors USCIS updates and policy changes to ensure your application reflects the latest guidelines. Start your application today.
Application Process Changes
The removal of COVID-19 vaccine requirements affects different application types:
For Adjustment of Status:
- Submit your medical exam with your Form I-485
- Work with a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon in the United States
- Submit medical exam results without COVID-19 vaccination proof
- No need to explain the absence of COVID-19 vaccine documentation
For Consular Processing:
While the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has not yet updated its vaccination requirements for consular processing, Boundless immigration experts anticipate similar guidance soon. This expectation is based on several key factors:
- Both the adjustment of status process and consular processing require Form I-693, and USCIS has explicitly stated they won’t request or deny applications based on COVID-19 vaccination documentation on this form.
- The decision to remove the COVID-19 vaccine requirement likely reflects updated public health guidelines and efforts to streamline immigration processes—considerations that would logically apply to both pathways.
However, until DHS makes an official announcement regarding consular processing, applicants should consult with their panel physicians about current requirements.
For Refugees:
- Health department physicians can complete your vaccination record
- Special provisions apply for refugee adjustment of status
Quick Reference Guide
Keep these points in mind:
- The change is immediate and automatic
- No action needed if you’ve already submitted your application
- Previous COVID-19 vaccine requirements are no longer enforced
- Other vaccination requirements remain in effect