Immigrants Required to Have COVID-19 Vaccine Starting October 1

On August 24, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that starting October 1, 2021, immigrants will be required to have the COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccination history is to be documented by a designated civil surgeon on form I-693, which is one of the general requirements for the approval of the Application for Adjustment of Status (I-485). 

The new vaccination requirement provides for certain blanket and individual waivers, including those based on age appropriateness, medical exemptions, general availability and the applicant’s religious or moral convictions. Refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19 where medically appropriate may result in denial of a green card based on a Class A medical inadmissibility. 

This new vaccine requirement is required by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regulation. 

Who is affected?

Applicants are defined under the CDC guidelines as people applying for adjustment of status for US permanent residence. Due to individuals being medically screened well in advance of adjustment of status, a negative screening for COVID-19 at the time of the medical evaluation does not guarantee the applicant will not have COVID-19 at the time the applicant becomes a Lawful Permanent Resident. 

Applicants applying for US permanent residence by consular processing, at a US embassy abroad or in their home country, will be required to be vaccinated.

The instructions on the CDC site are to be followed for COVID-19 vaccination among applicants from all countries and are effective as of October 1, 2021. Visit the Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons webpage for more information about the medical examination for applicants for US immigration. 

What are the new vaccination criteria?

During the exam, applicants are required to show proof that they have received certain vaccines. If an applicant does not have proof of having received the required vaccines, the law states that the vaccines must be given at the time of the medical exam. 

For more information, please contact your Case Manager.

Read More: How to Best Prepare for Your Immigrant Visa Interview.