How long is a yellow fever certificate valid, and when does it take effect?
The short answer
The CDC says the yellow fever certificate (ICVP) is valid beginning 10 days after the date of vaccination, and that yellow fever vaccines are valid for a person's lifetime even if the card has an expiration date. Always check the entry rules of your destination.
When it takes effect
According to the CDC International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis page, the certificate is valid beginning 10 days after the date of vaccination. If you are vaccinated less than 10 days before arrival in a country that requires proof, plan for this gap.
How long it lasts
The CDC states that yellow fever vaccines are valid for a person's lifetime, even if ICVP cards have an expiration date. In the validity box the clinic enters the date 10 days after primary vaccination with the wording life of person vaccinated.
What a valid card needs
The CDC page sets out how clinics complete the form.
- Name exactly as it appears on the passport.
- Dates written as day in numerals, month in letters, year.
- Yellow Fever entered as the vaccine name.
- The Uniform Stamp of the vaccinating centre.
- A handwritten signature by an authorised clinician. A signature stamp is not acceptable.
Boosters and country rules
The CDC says one dose typically gives lifelong protection and a booster is not needed, though travellers to areas with ongoing outbreaks may consider one if it has been 10 years or more. It also says certain countries might require the vaccine and that proof or a waiver is often required for US travellers to endemic areas. The CDC page on medical waivers says acceptance is at the discretion of the destination country.
This is US CDC guidance. UK and EU travellers should check their own health authority and the destination's requirements. Rules change, so check the official page before you travel.
Sources: CDC: International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), CDC: Yellow fever vaccine. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Does my certificate expire after 10 years?
The CDC says the vaccine is valid for a person's lifetime, even if the card carries an expiration date.
Can I enter a country the day after my jab?
The CDC says the certificate is valid beginning 10 days after vaccination, so not before that.
Do I need a booster?
The CDC says a booster is not needed, though travellers to areas with ongoing outbreaks may consider one if it has been 10 years or more since vaccination.
What if I cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons?
The CDC says a medical waiver is accepted at the discretion of the destination country, which might not accept it.
Is a photocopy or digital card enough?
The CDC page we read does not say. Check the destination's entry requirements.
Which countries require it?
The CDC says certain countries might require the vaccine and points to its country by country requirements, so check there.