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Working through the complexities of U.S. immigration law often requires extra attention, especially when working with vaccination requirements. Vaccination is a critical component of US immigration, and is very often required for immigration, but what happens if you have previously had a vaccine and now would like to request a waiver?
Understanding the requirements for Immigration
As part of the medical examination required for immigration to the U.S., applicants will have to show proof that they have been vaccinated against a list of diseases, including measles, mumps and more. These vaccinations are required unless a specific exemption applies. There are a few situations where you may still be eligible for a waiver.
Religious objections
Even if you have been vaccinated previously, you may still be eligible for a religious objection if you have converted to a new religion, if your beliefs against vaccines have hardened or your religious beliefs mean you object to any forthcoming vaccinations. You will likely have to substantiate these beliefs.
Affiliation with specific religions/religious groups does not guarantee you are qualified for a waiver, but each case will be evaluated individually.
At Blue Lake Law, our team has maintained a strong 100% success rate on our applications – we’d love to help you throughout your immigration Journey.
Moral objections
Similarly to if you hold a religious objection, if you strongly object to vaccination morally, you will likely have to substantiate your objection. This includes explaining that you don’t just morally object to specific vaccinations, but all vaccinations of all kinds.
Blanket Waiver
If you’ve been vaccinated in the past, but are no longer fit for vaccination due to health or age reasons, you may be eligible for a blanket waiver. These are reviewed on a case-by-case basis so you should prepare your application, and seek expert advice through Blue Lake Law to maximise your chances of success.
What is vital when making an argument to receive a vaccine waiver is that your religious or moral beliefs are currently against vaccines of all kinds. It may be the case that you received vaccines in the past – as an infant or even as an adult. Being able to articulate that your moral beliefs have changed or further developed to explain that at the current point in time, you morally object to vaccines is a crucial element in a vaccine waiver for those who have received vaccines in the past.
What vaccines are needed for a US green card?
Currently, the list of vaccines you are required to have for US Immigration eligibility are as follows;
- COVID-19 – with the last shot within the 12 months preceding the medical examination
- Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus (DTaP/Tdap)
- Haemophilus influenzae type b
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Influenza
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Meningococcal meningitis
- Pneumococcal pneumonia
- Polio
- Rotavirus
- Varicella
- Any other vaccine-preventable diseases recommended by the ACIP
Required vaccines may differ from your home country, so it’s important to check the list of what is required.
How to move forward with your immigration case
If you’re looking to move to the USA and believe you may be eligible for a vaccine waiver, get in touch with Blue Lake Law today. Our team of skilled immigration specialists will be more than happy to help you with your case, help you with your application and maximise your chances of success.
Expert advice on US immigration
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