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Washington, D.C.: In a significant policy update, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the removal of the COVID-19 vaccination documentation requirement for individuals applying for adjustment of status to lawful permanent residency.
Effective January 22, 2025, this change reflects evolving pandemic dynamics and simplifies the application process for many hopeful immigrants.
The policy eliminates the need for applicants to submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination on Form I-693, the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
Furthermore, USCIS clarified that it will not issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) based on the absence of vaccination proof.
This ensures no application will face denial due to this criterion.
Previously, COVID-19 vaccination was a requisite part of the medical examination for adjustment applicants, aligned with broader public health protocols during the height of the pandemic.
However, as pandemic-related mandates phase out, this regulatory adjustment marks a shift in approach.