
USCIS Drops COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Green Card Applicants: What You Need to Know
Big News for Green Card Applicants!
As of January 22, 2025, USCIS has officially removed the COVID-19 vaccine requirement for all green card applicants. This means that you do not need to show proof of the COVID-19 vaccine when submitting your application for adjustment of status. If you are planning to apply for a green card, this new policy could make the process easier for you.
What Has Changed?
Before this update, all applicants had to include proof of the COVID-19 vaccine on Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This form is required for all applicants adjusting their status to lawful permanent resident in the United States.
Now, USCIS has removed the COVID-19 vaccine requirement for green card applicants. If you do not have the vaccine, USCIS will:
- Not request additional evidence (RFE) for proof of vaccination
- Not issue a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) for missing the vaccine
- Not deny any green card application because of a missing COVID-19 vaccine record
This means you can apply for a green card without worrying about providing proof of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Who Does This Change Apply To?
This policy applies to all green card applicants seeking adjustment of status in the United States. No matter your immigration category, you no longer need to provide proof of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of your application.
This change benefits:
- Family-based green card applicants
- Employment-based green card applicants
- Refugees and asylees applying for a green card
- Diversity visa lottery winners
- Other applicants adjusting their status
Do Green Card Applicants Still Need a Medical Exam?
Yes, all green card applicants must still undergo a medical examination as part of the adjustment of status process. This examination ensures that applicants meet U.S. health and vaccination requirements before being granted lawful permanent residence.
While the COVID-19 vaccine requirement has been removed, the medical exam remains a mandatory step in the green card application process. A USCIS-approved civil surgeon must conduct the examination and complete Form I-693.
During the medical exam, the doctor will review your medical history and check for other required vaccinations, including:
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Hepatitis B
- Tetanus
- Other vaccines required by the CDC
To avoid delays in your application, ensure that your medical exam is completed correctly and on time. If you have any concerns, an experienced immigration attorney can help guide you through the process.
What If You Already Submitted Proof of the COVID-19 Vaccine?
If you already submitted your green card application and included proof of the COVID-19 vaccine, nothing will change for you. Your application will still be processed normally.
If you are still waiting for a decision, you do not need to worry about the COVID-19 vaccine requirement affecting your case.
What This Means for Future Green Card Applicants
For many green card applicants, the removal of the COVID-19 vaccine requirement is a significant shift that simplifies the path to lawful permanent residence. Previously, missing vaccine documentation could cause delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), or even concerns about eligibility. Now, this barrier has been eliminated, making the adjustment of status process more straightforward and accessible.
Here’s how this change may benefit you:
- Faster processing times – No delays due to missing vaccine records
- Less stress – You don’t have to worry about finding proof of the vaccine
- Simpler application process – One less document to gather for your case
This is a great time to start your green card application if you have been thinking about applying!
Need Help with Your Green Card Application?
Even though the COVID-19 vaccine requirement is no longer needed, applying for a green card can still be complicated. At Davis & Associates, we help families and individuals apply for green cards with confidence. Our experienced immigration attorneys in Dallas and Houston can guide you through every step of the process, making sure your application is complete and meets all USCIS requirements.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get expert help with your green card application.