1. What is the NVC’s role in the visa medical examination process?

The National Visa Center (NVC) is the U.S. Department of State agency responsible for coordinating the collection and transmission of immigrant visa applications and associated paperwork from visa petitioners to the appropriate U.S. consular office abroad. The NVC works closely with U.S. consular posts to ensure that immigrant visa applicants have a timely and successful medical examination experience. The NVC will provide instructions to the applicant on how to obtain a visa medical examination from a panel physician, provide copies of the medical report and immunization records to the consulate, and inform the consulate if an applicant has failed the medical examination.

2. What documents are required for a visa medical examination?

In most cases, the documents required for a visa medical examination include: a valid passport or other approved travel document, a completed medical history questionnaire, photographs, copies of any other important medical test results, and a chest X-ray. Depending on the visa type, additional documents may be required.

3. How long does it typically take for the NVC to process a visa medical exam?

The NVC typically takes two to four weeks to process a visa medical exam.

4. What is the purpose of a medical examination for an immigrant visa?

The medical examination for an immigrant visa is conducted to ensure the applicant is free of contagious diseases and/or other medical conditions that may pose a risk to the public health and welfare of the United States. The examination also includes immunizations, as required by law.

5. How much does a visa medical examination typically cost?

The cost of a visa medical examination depends on the country and the clinic administering the exam. Generally, it can range from around $100 – $400.

6. What is the difference between the NVC and the US Embassy/Consulate regarding visa medical exams?

The NVC (National Visa Center) is an organization within the US Department of State that handles immigrant visa processing and related administrative tasks from the time a petition is filed by a sponsor until the visa is issued by a US Embassy/Consulate. The NVC does not conduct visa medical exams. This is typically done at a local US Embassy/Consulate. The medical exam is done by an approved panel physician, who will review the applicant’s medical history and examine them for certain infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis. The results of the exam are then reported to the NVC for review and approval prior to visa issuance.

7. What immunizations are required for a visa medical exam?

The required immunizations for a visa medical exam vary depending on the country of origin and destination. Generally, they include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, and other illnesses. In addition, the United States requires certain applicants to receive a TB skin test. Other immunizations may be recommended depending on the country or region of travel.

8. Can applicants receive waivers to the required immunization(s)?

Yes, applicants may receive waivers to the required immunizations in certain circumstances. Generally, waivers are only granted for medical or religious reasons. The specific criteria and process for obtaining a waiver can vary by state.

9. Is there an age limit for visa medical exams?

Yes, generally visa medical exams are only conducted on applicants aged 15 or older.

10. Are there any special instructions for the exam if a person has an existing medical condition?

Yes, depending on the medical condition, the individual may need to provide specific documentation from their physician. They may also need to follow special instructions during the exam such as taking breaks or using a specific type of chair or table.

11. How will I know when my NVC-processed visa application is ready for review by the Embassy/Consulate?

You will receive a notification from the NVC when your visa application is ready for review by the Embassy/Consulate. The notification will include instructions on how to schedule an appointment at the Embassy/Consulate.

12. What is the difference between civil surgeons and panel physicians when it comes to visa medical exams?

Civil surgeons are certified U.S. doctors who have been approved by the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) to provide medical exams for visa applicants. Panel physicians are doctors who have been accepted by the United States Department of State to provide medical exams for visa applicants outside of the United States. Civil surgeons provide medical care in the United States, while panel physicians provide medical care outside the United States. Civil surgeons typically are more familiar with the visa medical exam process, while panel physicians may be unfamiliar with it and may be more likely to make mistakes that could cause visa denials.

13. Are additional tests or exams required for certain types of immigrant visas?

Yes, some types of immigrant visas may require additional tests or exams. For example, in order to obtain an immigrant visa based on employment, the applicant may be required to take a medical exam and provide evidence of certain qualifications. The specific tests and exams required will depend on the type of immigrant visa for which the applicant is applying.

14. Are there any restrictions on who can complete a visa medical exam?

Yes, there are restrictions on who can complete a visa medical exam. Only a panel physician designated by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is authorized to perform these exams.

15. How long after completing a visa medical exam will I receive results?

The results of a visa medical exam can vary. Some results may be available within a few days, while others may take several weeks.

16. Is follow-up care available after completing a visa medical exam?

Yes, follow-up care is available after completing a visa medical exam. Depending on the country, different services may be available, such as post-exam consultations with a physician, prescription refills, laboratory tests, and vaccinations.

17. Can I submit additional supporting documentation after submitting my visa application?

Yes, you can submit additional documentation such as health insurance, flight tickets and proof of financial support after submitting your visa application. You should contact the relevant embassy or consulate to find out how to submit any additional documents.

18. Is there a fee for having my NVC-processed visa application reviewed by the Embassy/Consulate?

Yes, the fees for visa application review and issuance by the Embassy/Consulate vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Please refer to the U.S. Department of State website for more information.

19. How do I contact the NVC or an Embassy/Consulate about my visa application or medical exam results?

For questions about visa applications, you should contact the National Visa Center (NVC) at 1-603-334-0700 or email [email protected]. For additional contact information, please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/contact-us.html. For questions regarding medical exam results, you should contact the embassy or consulate where you applied for your visa.

20. Do I need to submit photographs as part of my visa application or medical exam process?

The requirement for photographs may vary by country and visa type. Generally, you will need to submit two passport-style photographs with your visa application. For medical exams, you may need to provide additional photographs depending on the requirements of the specific country.