On March 31, 2023, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a Policy Alert on the removal of the “60-day Rule” for Report of Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693).

Previously, the 60-day rule required that the civil surgeon sign the Form I-693 within 60 days of the applicant's filing of the application for the underlying immigration benefit. This rule was implemented to ensure that the medical examination results submitted by the applicant were still valid at the time of adjudication.

The USCIS recognized that the 60-day rule presented significant difficulties for both applicants and civil surgeons, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rule required applicants to coordinate with civil surgeons and schedule appointments within a limited time frame, which was difficult given the reduced availability of medical professionals and the need for social distancing measures. USCIS had then temporarily waived the requirement that the Civil Surgeon sign Form I-693 no more than 60 days before the applicant files the underlying application since December 9, 2021.

USCIS is now removing this requirement permanently. This guidance is effective immediately and applies to all Forms I-693 associated with applications for underlying immigration benefits pending as of March 31, 2023, regardless of when the application was files or when the civil surgeon signed Form I-693.

However, it's important for applicants to note that the removal of the 60-day rule does not mean that they can delay their medical examination. While civil surgeon signatures are no longer subject to the 60-day requirement, the medical examination must still have been conducted within stipulated vailidity period. It's also important to note that USCIS may request updated medical examinations and vaccinations if the initial submission is incomplete or if the officer determines that an update is necessary for a particular case.

In summary, the USCIS's removal of the 60-day rule for civil surgeon signatures on Form I-693 is a welcome development for both applicants, civil surgeons, USCIS officers, federal partners, and other stakeholders.

Click here to read the USCIS Policy Alert.