Vaccines are not only a critical part of public health, they are a required portion of the immigration application process. By helping our bodies build up antibodies to many common diseases, vaccines have helped reduce unnecessary suffering and loss of life. When people immigrate to new countries or parts of the world, they may be exposed to new diseases and illness. Vaccines can help minimize protect them from this risk.
However, not all vaccines are right for all people. The appropriate use of vaccines insures that the right person receives the right vaccine at the right time. USCIS Civil Surgeons are expert in knowing which vaccines are needed and follow the CDC Vaccine Technical Instructions.
Some applicants for the Immigration or Green Card examinations are exempt from receiving vaccines based on medical reasons, religious belief or moral conviction. Applicants who desire for an exemption based on these reasons are still eligible to complete their Civil Surgeon examination. Here is how each exemption works:
Medical Exemptions
A medical exemption to a required vaccine may occur when applicants have an allergy to the vaccine, are not age appropriate for that vaccine or have an insufficient time interval between receiving doses.
Medical Exemptions – Allergies/Contraindications to certain vaccines
Some applicants have a known allergic reaction or prior severe side effect from a vaccine that may not permit them to receive an additional dose. Applicants are encouraged to have their primary care doctor provide the applicant with a medical document recommending that it is against their medical advice for the applicant to receive that vaccine.
Applicants who are pregnant are also not advised to receive some of the required vaccines while they remain pregnant.
Medical Exemptions- Not age appropriate
Civil Surgeons are required to follow the CDC recommended schedule for vaccines, which is based on age. For example, adults aged 18-64 years of age are required to receive MMR, Hepatitis B, Polio, Tdap, Varicella, Influenza (flu season only) and COVID-19 (new update see below).
Medical Exemptions- Insufficient Time Interval
Vaccines are commonly given in a series, meaning more than 1 shot. However repeated doses of the vaccine cannot be immediately given after receiving the first dose in the series. It is common to wait 30 days or more in-between doses. If your examination occurs before the next dose of the series is due, your Civil Surgeon indicates this on the vaccine form. Your vaccine record is still considered complete on that day and can be submitted, even if you have been recommended to have future doses to complete the series.
Religious Belief and Moral Conviction Exemptions
Any applicant applying for an Immigration Medical exam may also apply for a wavier or exemption from receiving any or all vaccines. This may be based on either religious or moral convictions. The Civil Surgeon can complete the vaccine portion with some or all vaccine portion missing stating “the applicant will request an individual wavier based on religious or moral convictions.” The application can then be completed and submitted.
After the application is processed the determination of approval is based on USCIS officers. Applicants may then be asked about their desired exemption and required to waiver further explaining their beliefs. The USCIS Policy manual states that: “1) applicant must be opposed to all vaccinations in any form, 2) The objection must be based on religious belief or moral convictions and 3) The religious belief or moral convictions must be sincere.”
The applicant has the burden to show that this is not just a mere preference not to receive a vaccine but a strong religious belief or moral conviction.
Dr. Haymore and his experienced team can help you navigate the vaccine requirements for your I 693 forms. Whether it’s receiving the right vaccine at the right time or helping you apply for a religious or moral waiver, Dr. Haymore can help you. We have performed hundreds of examinations through titer testing, completing vaccines in our office and filing exemptions. We will honor your right to choose and help you complete your application.
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