If you’re navigating the U.S. immigration process, finding a convenient and reliable place for your immigration medical exam can be challenging. Add in the need for flexible hours and same-day availability, and it’s easy to see why so many people in Central Ohio turn to walk-in urgent care in Columbus.
Whether you’re adjusting your status, applying for a green card, or supporting a family member through the USCIS process, one thing is clear: you need a qualified civil surgeon and a stress-free experience. Fortunately, many walk-in urgent care clinics in Columbus now offer USCIS-compliant immigration medical exams with no long wait times or complicated scheduling.
This guide will walk you through the entire process—from what an immigration medical exam involves, to how walk-in urgent care centers in Columbus can make your journey smoother, faster, and more affordable.
What Is an Immigration Medical Exam?
An immigration medical exam is a mandatory health checkup required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the immigration process. It helps determine whether a person is medically admissible to the United States.
The exam must be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and documented on Form I-693. It is required for:
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- Green card applicants (adjustment of status)
- Certain visa applicants
- Refugees and asylum seekers adjusting status
Why Choose a Walk-In Urgent Care in Columbus for Your Exam?
Columbus has a growing number of urgent care centers that combine the accessibility of walk-in service with the professionalism of USCIS-certified providers. Here’s why so many people prefer walk-in clinics:
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No Appointment Necessary – Drop in when it’s convenient for you.
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Fast Turnaround – Many clinics can complete the exam and paperwork within a few days.
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On-Site Services – Vaccines, TB tests, and lab work are often done right in the clinic.
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Extended Hours – Great for people with work or family obligations.
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Affordable Options – Immigration exams are not covered by insurance, but walk-in clinics usually offer competitive self-pay rates.
Whether you live in downtown Columbus or a surrounding suburb like Grove City, Reynoldsburg, or Westerville, walk-in urgent care clinics are conveniently located throughout the city.
What to Expect During an Immigration Medical Exam
Here’s a breakdown of the process when you walk into a Columbus urgent care clinic for your immigration medical exam:
1. Check-In and Paperwork
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You’ll need to bring:
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Government-issued ID (passport or visa)
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Vaccination records
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Form I-693 (you can print it yourself or fill it out at the clinic)
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Any prior medical records (if applicable)
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2. Physical Exam
The civil surgeon will conduct a basic physical checkup including:
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Height, weight, blood pressure
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Eyes, ears, nose, throat
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Heart and lungs
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Abdomen and lymph nodes
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Neurological and skin exams
3. TB Screening
This involves:
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A QuantiFERON blood test OR
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A two-step PPD skin test
If the result is positive, you may need a chest X-ray to rule out active TB.
4. Vaccination Review
The USCIS requires proof of certain vaccinations, including:
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MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
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Varicella (chickenpox)
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Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
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Influenza (seasonal)
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Hepatitis B (in some cases)
Missing vaccines? Many clinics offer them on-site for an additional cost.
5. Blood and Urine Tests
You may be tested for:
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Syphilis (blood test, required for adults 15+)
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Gonorrhea (urine test, required for adults 15+)
6. Sealed I-693 Form
Once everything is complete, the civil surgeon will fill out and seal the I-693 form in an envelope. This sealed form must be submitted to USCIS—do not open it.
Cost of Immigration Medical Exams in Columbus
Since USCIS medical exams aren’t covered by most insurance plans, urgent care clinics typically offer self-pay packages. The average cost in Columbus ranges from $180 to $400, depending on:
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Number of vaccines needed
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Type of TB test (blood vs. skin)
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Additional follow-up testing (if required)
Tip: Ask for a price quote up front. Many walk-in clinics provide all-inclusive packages or itemized pricing to avoid surprises.
How to Find the Best Walk-In Urgent Care for Immigration Exams in Columbus
Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right clinic:
| Criteria | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Civil Surgeon On Site | Must be USCIS-certified |
| Walk-In Availability | Flexible hours, no appointment |
| In-House Vaccinations | Saves you a trip to the pharmacy |
| Bilingual Staff | Helpful for non-English speakers |
| Positive Reviews | Check Google and Facebook ratings |
| Clean, Professional Facility | First impressions matter |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Waiting Too Long – Don’t delay your exam; it could delay your green card process.
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Bringing Incomplete Documents – Always carry ID, vaccine records, and I-693.
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Not Checking Surgeon Credentials – USCIS won’t accept forms signed by an unauthorized provider.
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Skipping Follow-Up Appointments – Some tests require second visits (e.g., TB skin test reading).
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Opening the Sealed Envelope – This voids your I-693; you’ll have to do it again.
FAQs About Immigration Medical Exams at Walk-In Urgent Care
Q: How long does the immigration medical exam take?
A: The physical exam itself usually takes under an hour. Lab results and paperwork may take 2–7 business days.
Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: Many clinics in Columbus accept walk-ins, but calling ahead can help confirm wait times and availability.
Q: What if I’m missing vaccinations?
A: Most walk-in clinics will provide missing vaccines during your visit (at an additional cost).
Q: How long is the I-693 valid?
A: The completed form is valid for up to 2 years after the civil surgeon signs it, but it must be submitted to USCIS within 60 days of the signature date.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just beginning your green card journey or tying up the last few steps, choosing a walk in urgent care Columbus for your immigration medical exam can save you time, stress, and money. These clinics provide flexible, USCIS-compliant exams in a welcoming and efficient environment—without the long waitlists of primary care doctors or immigration specialists.
So the next time you’re searching “walk-in urgent care Columbus” or “immigration medical exam near me,” you’ll know what to expect and where to go. Your path to legal residency in the U.S. just got one step easier.