As of January 22, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant policy change for adjustment of status applicants. In a move to streamline the process, USCIS is now waiving the requirement for adjustment of status applicants to provide documentation on Form I-693, the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, proving they received the COVID-19 vaccination.
This update means that applicants seeking to adjust their status to lawful permanent residents will no longer face delays or potential denials due to missing or incomplete COVID-19 vaccination documentation. USCIS will also stop issuing Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) related to this specific requirement.
Why Did USCIS Make This Change?
While the official reasoning behind this change has not been explicitly outlined, it reflects an evolving approach to pandemic-related requirements as conditions normalize. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination has been an important public health measure, and it became a standard part of medical evaluations for green card applicants. However, as vaccination rates have stabilized and the global pandemic has shifted, USCIS may now view the requirement as less critical for public health or administrative efficiency.
This policy adjustment aligns with broader trends of relaxing COVID-19-related mandates in various sectors. It also eases the burden on applicants who may have encountered difficulties obtaining or documenting their vaccination records.
What Does This Mean for Adjustment of Status Applicants?
If you are currently applying for a green card or planning to submit your application, you no longer need to worry about including proof of COVID-19 vaccination with your Form I-693.
Here’s a breakdown of how this change affects applicants:
- No Need for Additional Documentation: You will not need to obtain or submit documentation proving you have received the COVID-19 vaccine as part of the immigration medical exam.
- No Delays Due to Missing Vaccination Proof: USCIS will not issue RFEs or NOIDs related to the absence of COVID-19 vaccination records.
- No Risk of Denial: Applications will not be denied solely because the applicant did not present proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
Does This Apply to Other Vaccination Requirements or Just COVID-19?
It’s important to note that this policy applies exclusively to the COVID-19 vaccination requirement. Other vaccine requirements for adjustment of status, such as those for measles, mumps, rubella, and more, remain in effect. Applicants should still ensure their Form I-693 is completed accurately by a designated civil surgeon, with all other required vaccinations properly documented.
What Steps Should Applicants Take Moving Forward?
While this change simplifies the process for many applicants, it’s still crucial to follow all other USCIS guidelines when preparing your adjustment of status application. Ensuring that your medical examination and vaccination records are complete (apart from the COVID-19 vaccine requirement) can help avoid delays or complications.
If you’re uncertain about how this update affects your application or need personalized guidance, consulting an experienced immigration attorney can provide clarity. At the Lightman Law Firm, we’re here to help you navigate these changes and ensure your application is handled efficiently.