Mahaprasad Nanda

In a significant policy shift affecting thousands of immigrants, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced the elimination of COVID-19 vaccination documentation requirements for adjustment of status applicants. The change, effective January 22, 2025, removes a key medical documentation requirement that has been part of the green card application process since the pandemic era.

Policy Overview

Under the new guidance, applicants seeking to adjust their status to lawful permanent residence will no longer need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination on Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This streamlining measure aims to reduce administrative burden while maintaining other essential health screening requirements.

Impact on Application Processing

The policy change introduces several key modifications to the application process:

• Applicants are no longer required to submit COVID-19 vaccination records with their Form I-693
• USCIS will not issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs) specifically related to COVID-19 vaccination documentation
• No Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) will be issued for missing COVID-19 vaccination records
• Applications will not face denial based solely on the absence of COVID-19 vaccination documentation

Implementation Timeline

The policy takes effect on January 22, 2025, and applies to all adjustment of status applications processed on or after this date. This includes both new submissions and pending applications that have not yet been adjudicated.

Broader Context

This policy update reflects evolving approaches to COVID-19 requirements in immigration procedures. While the change removes the COVID-19 vaccination documentation requirement, it's important to note that other vaccination and medical examination requirements for adjustment of status applications remain in place.

What This Means for Applicants

For individuals seeking permanent residence status, this change simplifies the medical documentation process. Applicants should still expect to complete other aspects of the medical examination and provide documentation for other required vaccinations as part of their Form I-693.

Looking Forward

This policy change represents a significant step in modernizing immigration procedures while maintaining necessary public health protocols. As USCIS continues to evaluate and update its policies, applicants and immigration practitioners should stay informed about any additional changes to medical examination requirements and documentation procedures.

Resources for Applicants

While COVID-19 vaccination documentation is no longer required, applicants should continue to:

• Complete all other required portions of Form I-693
• Obtain medical examinations from USCIS-designated civil surgeons
• Maintain records of other required vaccinations
• Follow current USCIS guidelines for all other aspects of their adjustment of status application

For the most current information, applicants are encouraged to consult the USCIS website or speak with their immigration legal representative about how these changes affect their specific case