Immigration Physical vs. Routine Physical: Key Differences to Know

When preparing for a physical exam, it is important to understand the type of exam you need. While a routine physical and an immigration physical may sound similar, they serve very different purposes and follow specific requirements.

At NTX Medical Clinic, we provide both services and often receive questions from patients about the difference between the two. Knowing what sets them apart will help you prepare properly and avoid delays in processing important documentation or addressing health concerns.

What Is a Routine Physical?

A routine physical, also known as an annual wellness visit, is a general checkup meant to assess your overall health. It is part of preventive care and helps detect health issues early, even when you are not experiencing symptoms.

During a routine physical, your provider will:

• Check vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature
• Review your personal and family medical history
• Examine your heart, lungs, abdomen, and other systems
• Order lab work if needed, such as blood sugar or cholesterol tests
• Discuss diet, exercise, mental health, and lifestyle habits
• Update vaccinations if required

The goal of a routine physical is to promote long term wellness, manage existing conditions, and catch potential issues early. It is usually covered by most insurance plans and is recommended once a year for adults of all ages.

What Is an Immigration Physical?

An immigration physical, on the other hand, is a specialized medical exam required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for individuals applying for a green card or adjustment of immigration status.

This exam must be performed by a USCIS designated civil surgeon and is required to ensure that the applicant is not inadmissible to the United States on public health grounds.

Key elements of an immigration physical include:

• A full medical history review
• Physical examination
• Tuberculosis screening (including blood test or chest X ray if necessary)
• Vaccination verification and administration of any missing vaccines
• Testing for communicable diseases like syphilis and gonorrhea
• Completion and certification of USCIS Form I 693

Unlike a routine physical, the immigration exam does not focus on chronic disease management, lifestyle counseling, or general preventive care. Its purpose is to confirm that the applicant does not have any health conditions that would pose a risk to public health or require extensive medical care in the U.S.

Major Differences Between Immigration and Routine Physicals

While both types of exams involve a physical assessment, their objectives, requirements, and outcomes are very different. Here are the key distinctions:

• Purpose: A routine physical focuses on personal health maintenance. An immigration physical meets legal and public health requirements.
• Provider: Routine physicals can be performed by any licensed primary care provider. Immigration physicals must be done by a USCIS authorized civil surgeon.
• Documentation: Immigration exams require specific forms (Form I 693) and documentation for USCIS. Routine physicals do not involve immigration paperwork.
• Testing: Immigration exams require specific disease testing and vaccine verification. Routine physicals may only include standard blood work depending on your health needs.
• Follow up: Routine physicals may result in long term care plans. Immigration physicals are typically a one time evaluation for immigration processing.

What to Bring to an Immigration Physical

If you are coming to NTX Medical Clinic for an Immigration Physical Exam in McKinney, TX, be sure to bring:

• Government issued photo identification (passport or driver's license)
• Immunization records
• Form I 693 (do not sign until instructed by the provider)
• Any relevant medical history or records
• A list of current medications

Having this information ready helps ensure a smooth and timely completion of your exam.

Trust NTX Medical Clinic for Your Exam Needs

Whether you need a preventive checkup or an immigration physical, NTX Medical Clinic is here to help. We provide accurate, timely, and professional services to meet both your health and immigration needs.

Our experienced team is authorized to conduct Immigration Physical Exam in McKinney, TX and will guide you through every step of the process with care and efficiency.

‍