INS on Vaccinations for Orphans
Prior to May 1998

In a March 20, 1998 Memo, Jacquelyn A. Bednarz, the Acting Assistant Commissioner of the INS sent a letter to all INS Offices adopting the law which had been signed last year by President Clinton which exempts internationally adopted children 10 years of age or younger from the immunization requirements.

The adopting parent(s) must sign an affidavit affirming that the child will receive the required vaccinations within 30 days of admission to the U.S. or at the earliest time that is medically appropriate. The affidavit must be signed prior to visa issuance.

In all respects, the rules pertaining to immunizations will continue to govern adopted children as well.