Find a USCIS-Designated Civil Surgeon by State

A civil surgeon is a licensed physician designated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to perform immigration medical examinations. If you're applying for a green card (Form I-485), you'll need an exam from a USCIS-designated civil surgeon who will complete Form I-693 — the official record of your immigration medical exam. Not every doctor can do this; only those specifically designated by USCIS are authorized.

Prices for the immigration medical exam vary significantly by state and city. In some areas you can find exams starting around $150, while in high-cost metropolitan areas the exam alone can exceed $500 — and that's before vaccinations, which are typically billed separately and can add $100 to $600 depending on which ones you need. Comparing 2 to 3 doctors in your area before booking can save you hundreds of dollars.

Language is another important factor. Many civil surgeons speak languages beyond English — including Spanish, Mandarin, Hindi, Arabic, and Korean — which can make the exam more comfortable and reduce the chance of miscommunication. If English isn't your first language, look for a doctor who speaks yours.

Some states have hundreds of civil surgeons to choose from, while others have fewer than ten. If you live in a rural area or a state with limited options, consider checking neighboring states as well — there may be a more convenient or affordable option just across the border. Use this directory to browse by state, then drill down into your city to compare doctors on price, language, reviews, and appointment availability.