Visa Docs Go Digital: eMedical System Gets Overhaul
Published Date: 12/23/2025
Notice
Summary
The Department of State wants to update how doctors submit medical exams for U.S. visas using an electronic system called eMedical. This affects about 800 panel physicians who perform around 550,000 exams yearly, saving time and making the process smoother. They’re asking for public feedback by January 22, 2026, to make sure the system works well without adding extra costs or hassle.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Panel Physicians Must Submit eMedical
About 800 panel physicians must complete the electronic DS-7794 form in the eMedical portal for each visa or immigration medical exam. The Department estimates 550,000 responses per year, with an average time of 1 hour per response and a total estimated burden of 550,000 hours; responding is mandatory.
Visa Applicants' Medical Data Collected Electronically
When you apply for a U.S. visa or certain immigration benefits, a panel physician records your medical exam on form DS-7794 through the eMedical portal. The notice says this medical information is retained by the Bureau of Consular Affairs and is available to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to determine eligibility under INA Sec. 212(a)(1).
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