Chest X-Ray and TB Screening

A tuberculosis screening required by many countries as part of the visa medical exam — typically a chest X-ray, sometimes followed by sputum or blood tests.

A tuberculosis screening required by many countries as part of the visa medical exam — typically a chest X-ray, sometimes followed by sputum or blood tests.

Also known as

TB Screening, Tuberculosis Test, Immigration Chest X-Ray

Real-world example

You're applying for a UK student visa from a high-TB-burden country. You visit an IOM-approved clinic, get a chest X-ray, and the clear report is sent directly to UK Visas & Immigration. If the X-ray is abnormal, sputum samples are required.

Country-specific notes

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Required from 100+ countries.

Required for visa applications 6+ months from listed high-TB-incidence countries. Certificate valid for 6 months.

IOM-run clinics are the only approved providers.

🇺🇸 United States

Part of the I-693 medical exam.

All immigrant visa applicants aged 2+ require TB testing (TST or IGRA blood test) and chest X-ray if indicated.

Test results must be recorded on I-693 within 60 days of adjustment of status.

🇦🇺 Australia

BUPA handles most exams.

Required for applicants 11+ planning to stay 6+ months. BUPA Medical Visa Services clinics handle routing to Home Affairs.

Pregnant applicants can defer the X-ray until post-delivery.

Frequently asked questions

Who is exempt?

Usually children under 11, pregnant women (alternative testing), and short-stay visitors under 6 months. Check the specific country rules.

What happens with an abnormal X-ray?

You provide sputum samples over three days to rule out active TB. If active, treatment completion (6+ months) is usually required before visa issuance.

Store your TB screening certificate and immigration paperwork in Nomedic for fast sharing with sponsors or consulates.

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