How long can I use my yellow card?

How Long Is Your Yellow Fever Vaccination Card Valid?

If you're planning international travel, especially to regions where yellow fever is present, you’ve likely encountered the so-called "yellow card"—officially known as the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). A common question travelers have is: How long can I use my yellow card?

The short answer: for life. Once you receive the yellow fever vaccine, the certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination and, under current World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, remains effective indefinitely.

This means you won’t need to get revaccinated or renew the certificate every 10 years, even if your physical card shows an expiration date. In the past, yellow fever certificates were printed with a 10-year validity due to older regulations. But since 2016, the WHO has recognized that a single dose provides lifelong protection for most people, and thus, the requirement for booster doses or renewed certification has been lifted.

Still, it’s important to carry the original yellow card when traveling. Many countries require it at entry, and without it, you could face quarantine or denial of entry. Always ensure your certificate is properly stamped and signed by an authorized vaccination center.

Tip: Keep a scanned copy or photo of your yellow card on file—just in case it gets lost. While the physical document is essential for border control, having a backup can make replacement easier.

In summary, your yellow card, issued after your first yellow fever vaccination, is valid for life. No boosters, no renewals—just lifelong proof of protection. That said, always check country-specific requirements, as some destinations may still enforce outdated rules, though they’re increasingly rare.