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COVID-19 Vaccines Mandatory for Green Card Applicants

COVID-19 Vaccines Mandatory for Green Card Applicants

From October 1, 2021, lawful permanent residence applicants must show proof of a full dose of the COVID-19 vaccination as part of their Green Card application.

Section 212(a)(1)(A)(ii) of the Immigration and Nationality Act requires Green Card applicants to demonstrate proof that they are vaccinated against vaccine-preventable diseases. Following an announcement from the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), the COVID-19 vaccine has now been included on the list of mandatory vaccines. The requirement applies to foreign nationals filing an application to adjust their status within the US and to those filing an immigrant visa application overseas.

Applicants must provide documentary evidence at their medical examination. This would be either an official vaccination record or a copy of their medical chart with written documentation from a physician or qualified medical professional demonstrating proof of vaccination.

Exemptions may be available for certain applicants due to:

  • Age
  • Vaccine availability for those living in areas where vaccines are not readily available.
  • Religious or moral grounds
  • Safety and risk of adverse reaction to the vaccine

 
Individuals would need to submit a waiver request for an exemption to USCIS.

Proof of immunity to COVID-19 does not qualify as an exemption from the COVID-19 vaccine requirements.

 

Need assistance?

NNU Immigration are dedicated US immigration and nationality attorneys. If you have a query about a Green Card application, contact us.

This article does not constitute direct legal advice and is for informational purposes only.

By Nita Nicole Upadhye

Nita Nicole Upadhye is the Founder & Principal Attorney at NNU Immigration. A recognized leader in the field of US business immigration law, Nita successfully acts for corporations and professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, actors, and athletes from across the globe, providing expert guidance on all aspects of US visa and nationality applications, and talent mobility to the USA.

Need legal advice?

For specialist advice on your query, get in touch with our team of US immigration attorneys.​

Need legal advice?

For specialist advice on your query, get in touch with our team of US immigration attorneys.

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For specialist advice on a US immigration or nationality matter for your business, contact our US immigration attorneys. 

For specialist advice on a US immigration or nationality matter for your business, contact our US immigration attorneys.