New Requirements
Effective October 1, 2021, the CDC will require all immigrant visa applicants, all K fiancé(e) visa applicants, and nonimmigrant visa applicants who are referred to the panel physicians to complete the COVID-19 vaccine series (one or two doses, depending on the vaccine) and provide documentation of vaccination to the civil surgeon before completion of the immigration medical examination.
The CDC requires the COVID-19 vaccine to be approved through either the World Health Organization (WHO) or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
All immigrant visa applicants and others are encouraged to get the vaccine and will be subject to a medical exam to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible to not experience delays in their visa processing. This requirement applies prospectively to all Forms I-693 signed by the civil surgeons on or after the effective date.
Waivers for Vaccination
Blanket waivers for the COVID vaccination will be applied in countries where:
- Not age-appropriate
- Contraindicated due to a medical condition
- Not routinely available where the civil surgeon practices
- Limited in supply and would cause significant delay for the applicant to receive the vaccination.
Individuals may also apply for individual waivers based on religious beliefs or moral convictions by submitting Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility.
Are you or a loved one affected by this change in policy? Contact us today for a consultation.
