Yellow Fever Certificate Explained
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate can affect boarding and border entry.
Airlines and border officials may ask for proof. Some travellers only discover this at the airport, after a route change or transit stop.
This guide covers the certificate rules and key steps below.
What is the Yellow Fever Certificate
The official name is the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis, often called the yellow card.
It proves you have received a Yellow Fever vaccination. It is not a general medical clearance for travel.
What yellow fever is
Yellow fever is a viral infection spread by mosquito bites. It is mainly found in parts of Africa and South America.
NHS information notes symptoms often start 3 to 6 days after a bite. Most people get flu like symptoms, though a small number develop severe illness.
When you may need a certificate
Some countries require proof of vaccination before entry, or before you leave the country.
Transit can matter. Passing through a country linked to Yellow Fever risk can trigger checks at your next stop, even on a connection.
Entry into the UK does not need a Yellow Fever certificate. Rules for the rest of the trip depend on the full itinerary.
Which countries require it
Requirements vary and they can change. NHS travel advice points travellers to TravelHealthPro for country specific vaccination and certificate rules.
How to check before you travel
• Check the rules for your destination country
• Check the rules for every transit country
• Recheck after any itinerary change
How long the certificate is valid
NHS guidance says you should have the vaccine at least 10 days before you travel, so it has time to work.
Vaccination certificates are valid for life, including older certificates that show an expiry date.
A further dose is recommended for a small number of travellers, based on clinical assessment and travel risk.
What the yellow card looks like and what it contains
The ICVP is a small yellow booklet. Identity details should match your passport exactly.
Certificate item | Why it matters | Common problem | |
|---|---|---|---|
Full name and date of birth | Must match the passport used for travel | Spelling differs or name order does not match | |
Date of vaccination | Shows when the certificate becomes valid | Date is unclear or written in a confusing format | |
Vaccine product and batch details | Supports record accuracy and verification | Batch number or manufacturer left blank | |
Clinic stamp and clinician signature | Confirms it was issued correctly | Stamp missing or signature missing |
How to get a Yellow Fever Certificate in the UK
Yellow Fever vaccination and certificates are only available from registered Yellow Fever vaccination centres.
At Chatham Pharmacy, the process usually includes a travel consultation, clinical screening, vaccination when appropriate, and the ICVP completed and stamped.
What to bring to your appointment
• Itinerary, including transit points
• Medicines list and allergies
NHS travel advice suggests planning vaccines well ahead, often 6 to 8 weeks before travel where possible.
Who may not be able to have the vaccine
Yellow Fever vaccine is not suitable for everyone. A clinician will screen you to reduce risk.
It may be unsuitable for some immune conditions, some immune suppressing medicines, and some severe allergies.
NHS guidance lists situations where a further dose may be advised, including people vaccinated when pregnant, under 2 years old, living with HIV, or with a weakened immune system.
If you cannot be vaccinated, a medical letter of exemption may be provided. Acceptance depends on the destination authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical tips to avoid travel problems
Book early and check every stop, including transit.
Keep the yellow card with your passport. Make a photo for your own records, yet carry the original booklet.
Use mosquito bite avoidance measures on your trip, even if vaccinated.
If you feel unwell after travel to a risk area, seek medical advice. NHS guidance notes symptoms often start 3 to 6 days after a mosquito bite.
Travel services at Chatham Pharmacy
Chatham Pharmacy supports travellers in Chatham, Medway with travel consultations, travel vaccines, and Yellow Fever vaccination and certification when suitable.
