The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released updated instructions regarding medical screening for tuberculosis (TB) for applicants for permanent residency. These new instructions replace the tuberculin skin test (TST) as the first TB screening method with a TB blood test, called an interferon-gamma release assay or IGRA. A TST test will no longer be able to be used as a substitute for IGRA testing.
Civil surgeons are responsible for conducting these tests and examinations for green card applicants. These physicians are authorized by USCIS to conduct the required medical examinations for applicants looking to register for permanent residence or adjust their status while in the United States.
Because TB can be difficult to detect, the CDC now mandates the IGRA test for green card applicants, as this test has been shown to be more dependable and accurate at detecting TB than previously favored skin tests. Given the recent nature of this change, applicants may want to confirm that their civil surgeon is familiar with the new requirements.
If you are interested in applying for a green card, be sure to contact Berardi Immigration Law to explore your options with an attorney today!
