by Jennifer Grady, Esq.
Starting October 1st, 2021, the COVID-19 vaccine will be the latest addition to the list of required vaccinations for applicants of Adjustment of Status for Green Card in the U.S., and for applicants applying for an immigrant visa from abroad.
Currently, there are 14 required vaccinations for those applying for green card or permanent residence in the United States, along with those interviewing for immigrant visas in U.S. embassies or consulates abroad.
The current vaccination requirements are:
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Influenza
Influenza type B (Hib)
Measles
Meningococcal
Mumps
Pneumococcal
Pertussis
Polio
Rotavirus
Rubella
Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids
Varicella
Proof of the completed COVID-19 vaccination must be submitted, in person, during the medical examination portion of the immigration process, along with a medical history review, physical examination, chest X-ray and blood test for syphilis. The written documentation can come in the form of an official vaccination record, medical chart with physician entries of the vaccination details, or other appropriate official medical attestation. A negative COVID-19 test will not suffice as proof of vaccination.
Visit travel.state.gov for more information on what to expect at the medical examination from the U.S. Department of State.
Does The Vaccine Requirement Apply to Everyone?
Waivers are available for special cases as an exception to the vaccine requirement. Individuals encompassed in this exception include:
Those under the age limit of available vaccines
Those with documented medical contraindications, or serious adverse reactions, to the vaccines
Those unable to readily access the COVID-19 vaccine
Those with religious or moral convictions that object to the vaccine
According to the CDC, the COVID-19 vaccine, although not a vaccine-preventable disease, is considered a severe acute respiratory syndrome, "Class A Inadmissible Condition" in the U.S. that can prevent applicants from obtaining Permanent Residency or a Green Card. Thus, the vaccine requirement will go into effect on October 1, 2021, setting a new kind of precedent for immunization requirements for immigration during a pandemic.
For immigrant visa applicants currently awaiting the interview process, they should consider the total time it takes to complete the COVID-19 vaccination series (i.e. waiting 2-3 weeks after the first dose for vaccines with two shots).
If you need more information on how the COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement may apply to your immigrant visa, we encourage you to contact our office at info@gradyfirm.com, or call us at (949) 798-6298.
You can also book a call on our calendar at https://www.gradyfirm.com/schedule.
DO YOU NEED HELP DRAFTING WORKPLACE POLICIES AND CREATING COVID-19 PROCEDURES?
The Grady Firm attorneys provide the following immigration law services:
The Grady Firm works with dynamic employers and employees across the country to prepare successful employment-based visa and Green Card applications. In addition, we help individuals, families, employees, business owners, and investors obtain non-immigrant and immigrant visas (B-1/B2, H-1B, H-2B, L-1A, L-1B, O-1, TN, E-2, E-, EB-2, E-3, EB-3), as well and Green Cards and citizenship based on family relationships, investment, or employment.
To learn more about ensuring your business is compliant with state and local laws, schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation with The Grady Firm’s attorneys; call +1 (949) 798-6298; or fill out a Contact Request Form.
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