No More 60-Day Rule: Major Change in Immigration Medical Examination Policy

A Major Policy Shift: Streamlining the Immigration Application Process, Reducing Delays, and Easing the Burden on Applicants and Civil Surgeons

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The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant policy change that will streamline the immigration application process. Effective immediately, the "60-day rule" for the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693) has been removed. This means that the civil surgeon's signature on Form I-693 is no longer required to be dated within 60 days of the applicant filing their application for the underlying immigration benefit.

USCIS is now "removing this requirement permanently," per The Office of the Director of USCIS. Applicants, civil surgeons, USCIS officers, federal partners, and other stakeholders have "consistently expressed concern that this requirement is confusing" and requires "Requests for Evidence (RFEs) to be issued" for otherwise valid Forms I-693, as the policy guidance text explains.

This policy change eases the burden on applicants and civil surgeons, eliminating confusion and reducing the need for additional documentation.

The 60-day rule was initially intended to enhance operational efficiency and reduce the need for updated Forms I-693 from applicants. However, in practice, these efficiencies were not realized. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its associated processing delays further complicated matters, leading USCIS to waive the requirement temporarily since December 9, 2021. The removal of the 60-day rule aims to simplify the process for applicants and reduce the number of RFEs issued.

The new policy is effective immediately and applies to all pending Forms I-693, regardless of when the application was filed or when the civil surgeon signed the form.

As a result of this policy change, USCIS officers will review Form I-693 for compliance with the procedures and requirements outlined in the Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons that were in effect as of the date of the civil surgeon's signature. Officers will not issue RFEs for applicants to meet requirements that did not apply when the civil surgeon signed Form I-693.

This significant policy shift demonstrates USCIS's commitment to streamlining the immigration application process, making it less burdensome for applicants and civil surgeons.

If you or someone you know is navigating the immigration process, take advantage of this significant policy change. Don't hesitate to contact the expert immigration attorneys at Nido Nylund Law Firm. Our team is well-versed in the latest immigration laws and regulations and is committed to helping you achieve your immigration goals. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us guide you through this critical transition with personalized support and professional expertise. So don't wait – start your journey toward a brighter future now.