If you or a member of your family is in the process of immigration detention and needs a green card in the US, it may be confusing to go through the medical examination process. Here, we’ll break down the essential steps for a successful I-693 medical exam process, including what you can do if your spouse or a member of this family is detained.
Understanding the Purpose of the Medical Exam
But let us first understand why the medical exam is important when applying for a green card. Section 212(a)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U. S. C. § 1182) states that applicants to be granted a permanent residence or a green card cannot be inadmissible on health grounds. Minor ailments do not pose issues to the application whereas major illnesses, alcoholism or substance dependence, or certain mental or physical illnesses may be of concern. These problems should be discussed during the medical examination.
Initiating the Process
Contacting the ICE Officer
When someone is in immigration detention, coordinating with the appropriate authorities is the first step. Begin by reaching out to the ICE officer responsible for your loved one’s case. Obtain the officer’s name and contact details, and establish communication to confirm the need for a medical examination. In some cases, ICE officers may directly arrange the examination, depending on local practices and detention center policies.
Communicating with the Detention Center
Simultaneously, contact the detention center to ensure they are aware of the medical examination requirement. Collaborate with the responsible person at the facility to facilitate the doctor’s entry and examination.
Finding a USCIS-Approved Civil Surgeon
To perform the required medical exam, you’ll need a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. Here’s how to find one:
se USCIS’s Online Tool
Visit https://my.uscis.gov/findadoctor and enter the zip code of the detention center to locate approved doctors nearby. The search results will provide you with the doctor’s name, phone number, and office location.
Contact Multiple Doctors
Reach out to several doctors from the list and inquire about their willingness to examine the detention center. Additionally, discuss their fees, as USCIS does not regulate the charges for these services. Some doctors may charge extra for travel to the detention center.
Appointment Availability
Ensure that the selected doctor has available appointment slots that align with your timeline, especially if your loved one has an upcoming individual hearing. It’s crucial to secure the examination and results promptly.
Confirming the Appointment
Once you’ve chosen a doctor, confirm the appointment date and time with both the ICE officer and the detention center. Ensure that all parties are aware and in agreement to avoid any complications on the examination day.
After the Medical Examination
Contacting the Doctor’s Office
After the examination, get in touch with the doctor’s office to inquire about the timeline for receiving the results. Typically, this process is relatively quick, depending on the doctor’s schedule. The doctor’s office will provide you with a sealed envelope containing the results.
Important Note: Do Not Open the Envelope
It’s crucial not to open the sealed envelope. Instead, take it to the court and hand it over to the government attorney assigned to your case. The government attorney will unseal the envelope during the court proceedings to assess whether any health-related issues could affect admissibility.
By following these steps diligently, you can ensure that your loved one undergoes the necessary medical examination, a vital requirement for obtaining a green card while in immigration detention. While the process may involve some challenges, your commitment to fulfilling these requirements will significantly contribute to a successful green card application.
In conclusion, obtaining a green card medical exam for someone in immigration detention involves effective communication with ICE officers, detention center authorities, and USCIS-approved civil surgeons. By following these steps and remaining proactive, you can navigate this process efficiently, bringing your loved one a step closer to lawful permanent residence in the United States.
