How long is a yellow card good for?

Yellow Fever Vaccination: Your Certificate Lasts a Lifetime

If you've ever traveled to regions where yellow fever is a risk, you've likely needed proof of vaccination. That document, officially called the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), is commonly referred to as the "yellow card" — not because of its color, but because it protects against yellow fever.

For years, travelers were told their certificates expired after 10 years, requiring booster shots and re-vaccination. But that changed in 2016, thanks to guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and updates to the International Health Regulations.

As of now, yellow fever vaccination certificates are valid for life. That means even if your card has a printed expiry date — something commonly seen on older certificates — it remains acceptable for international travel. Whether you were vaccinated in 2005 or 2020, your certificate is still valid.

This lifelong validity applies to a single dose of the vaccine for most people. The change simplified travel requirements and reduced unnecessary revaccinations, recognizing that one dose provides long-lasting immunity for the vast majority of individuals.

That said, some countries may still ask for proof of vaccination if you're arriving from or transiting through a high-risk area. Always check the entry requirements of your destination, as border officials may not always be up to date on the policy change.

Carry your yellow card with your passport when traveling to tropical regions of Africa or South America, where yellow fever is endemic. It’s not just a formality — it’s a vital document for protecting both public health and your travel plans.