10 Common Questions About the US Visa Medical Exam in Pakistan

For countless Pakistanis, securing a U.S. visa represents a significant life event—be it for academic pursuits, career opportunities, or reuniting with loved ones overseas. A key component of this journey is completing the U.S. visa medical examination. This assessment is performed exclusively by panel physicians authorized by the U.S. Embassy, with approved facilities available in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. The examination verifies that applicants satisfy the health criteria mandated by U.S. immigration regulations.

Below, we address the 10 most common questions about the U.S. visa medical examination in Pakistan, offering comprehensive answers to guide your preparation.

1. Who is required to undergo the U.S. visa medical exam?

All individuals applying for immigrant visas—including spouse, parent, child, or employment-based categories—are required to complete this examination. Certain non-immigrant visa applicants may also need the exam if there are health-related concerns. There are no exemptions for minors, spouses, or elderly applicants.

2. Which locations in Pakistan offer this examination?

Only panel physicians designated by the U.S. Embassy are permitted to conduct this examination. Authorized medical centers currently operate in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Personal physicians or private doctors cannot perform this assessment.

To prevent scheduling issues, many applicants prefer booking appointments well in advance at established centers. WilCare is among the trusted facilities providing U.S. visa medical services across Pakistan.

3. What documentation is needed for the medical exam?

Applicants may bring the following:

• Valid original passport
• Visa appointment confirmation (issued by the National Visa Center or U.S. Embassy)
• Immunization records (both childhood and adult vaccinations)
• Medical history documentation (particularly for those with ongoing health conditions)

4. What procedures are involved in the examination?

The U.S. visa medical exam is comprehensive and typically comprises:

• General physical assessment (measuring height, weight, blood pressure, vision, and overall health)
• Chest radiograph (to screen for tuberculosis)
• Blood analysis (testing for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis, and other communicable diseases)
• Urinalysis (based on age and health status)
• Immunization review (per CDC requirements)

5. Which immunizations are mandatory?

Applicants must comply with CDC vaccination standards, including:

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Polio
• Hepatitis B
• Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• Influenza (seasonal requirement)

When vaccination records are unavailable, panel physicians can administer any required immunizations during the appointment.

6. What is the validity period of the medical report?

Medical reports typically remain valid for six months. However, for applicants receiving tuberculosis (TB) treatment, validity may be shortened to three months. It is essential to coordinate your visa interview and travel arrangements within this timeframe.

7. Can medical findings result in visa denial?

Yes, though only under specific circumstances. Conditions that may lead to inadmissibility include:

• Active tuberculosis infection
• Untreated communicable diseases
• Substance abuse or significant mental health conditions that present public safety concerns

In practice, most applicants experience processing delays for additional testing rather than outright visa refusal.

8. What is the fee for the U.S. visa medical exam in Pakistan?

Examination fees are determined by individual approved clinics and are subject to periodic adjustments. Applicants should verify current pricing directly with their chosen panel physician or medical facility prior to scheduling. This helps avoid any unexpected costs on examination day.

9. How are examination results transmitted to the U.S. Embassy?

U.S. Embassy-approved panel physicians transmit medical examination findings through secure channels established by U.S. immigration authorities. This transmission occurs directly between the medical facility and the embassy, meaning applicants generally do not need to personally deliver their medical documentation. Since procedures may be updated periodically, confirming the latest protocols with your selected panel physician when booking is advisable.

10. How should applicants prepare for the examination?

• Schedule your appointment early to ensure availability before your visa interview date.
• Carry immunization documentation to prevent unnecessary additional vaccinations.
• Bring prescription eyewear and current medications if applicable.
• Rest adequately the night before to ensure accurate blood pressure measurements.
• Provide truthful information regarding your health history—withholding details can negatively impact your application.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. visa medical examination in Pakistan becomes a manageable process when you prepare properly. Although the requirements might initially seem complex, understanding what lies ahead simplifies the entire experience.

Selecting an authorized and reputable medical center such as WilCare allows you to complete your examination efficiently, with expert assistance throughout the process.

Keep in mind: The medical examination exists not to obstruct legitimate applicants but to safeguard public health in the United States. With thorough preparation, you will navigate this requirement successfully as you move toward beginning a new chapter abroad.