Tests and Chest X-rays
Your age, medical history and examination findings determine which tests you need.
Before your tests
- You do not need to fast for the routine examination. Eat and drink normally. Separate instructions apply if you are asked to provide sputum samples.
- If you need a urine test, do not urinate for at least one hour before giving the sample. Please plan accordingly.
- Tell us before testing if you are pregnant, may be pregnant or are planning pregnancy.
Required immigration tests must be arranged through our panel clinic and designated laboratory. Results from another centre cannot be used. Bring previous test results, chest X-rays and treatment records if available; they may help the physician interpret your findings.
Syphilis blood test
Applicants aged 18–44 must be tested. Testing is also required at other ages if there is reason to suspect infection.
A reactive screening result needs a confirmatory test; it does not by itself establish a diagnosis. Bring records of any previous syphilis diagnosis or treatment, as these help us interpret the results.
If treatment is needed, it must be arranged through our panel clinic and documented for the immigration examination. The treatment schedule depends on your diagnosis and may require several visits. We will explain the treatment, any delay to your report and follow-up care. Untreated syphilis can prevent medical clearance; it is not necessarily a permanent barrier after appropriate treatment.
Gonorrhea urine test
Applicants aged 18–24 must be tested. Testing is also required at other ages if infection is suspected.
Do not urinate for at least one hour beforehand, and please plan accordingly when coming here.
If gonorrhea is diagnosed, treatment must be completed and documented through our panel clinic.
Chest X-ray
All applicants aged 15 or older need a chest X-ray. Some younger applicants also need one based on their symptoms, TB testing or other findings.
Previous X-rays can be useful for comparison but do not replace the required immigration X-ray. Tell us if you are pregnant or might be pregnant. See our Pregnancy page.
TB blood testing
An IGRA blood test is required for some applicants (from Afghanistan or Ukraine) and is not rotinely done. We will explain whether it applies to your case. A positive IGRA does not by itself mean you have active TB; further assessment may be needed.
Sputum samples
An X-ray, symptoms or other findings may require three early morning sputum samples, collected at least 24 hours apart, preferably on consecutive working days. The samples undergo smear and culture testing, with a molecular test on the first sample.
Allow at least eight weeks for the culture process. A negative early test does not remove the need to wait for the required cultures. If TB is diagnosed, treatment and further assessment will extend the process. We will give you specific preparation and collection instructions.
Drug testing
Drug testing is not routine for every applicant. The physician may request it based on your history or findings, or when follow-up is required under the CDC instructions. Tell us about prescribed medicines and bring your treatment records. Further assessment or monitoring may delay your medical report.
DNA relationship testing
A consular officer may suggest DNA testing to establish a biological relationship. This is separate from the routine medical examination.
Follow the Embassy’s instructions for arranging testing with an AABB-accredited laboratory and sample collection by the designated physician or medical technician. Do not bring a home test or handle the official test kit yourself.
See the Department of State’s DNA testing instructions.
Results and your visa application
The laboratory sends medical test results directly to us. We will explain any findings, treatment or return visits and include the required results in your medical report.
The U.S. Embassy makes the visa decision; completing tests or treatment does not guarantee that a visa will be issued.