SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/trav-yf-icvp

How soon after vaccination is a yellow fever certificate valid?

10 days after the shot.

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  1. Immediately
  2. 10 days ✔
  3. 6 months

Why: Certificates are valid beginning 10 days after vaccination. The vaccine itself is valid for life even if the card shows an expiration date. Travelers without it may be denied entry.

Huh, didn't know that: CDC does not issue ICVPs. Clinics validate them with a Uniform Stamp.

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The traveler carried proof of vaccination. He was well stamped!
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References

Answer: 10 days. Certificates are valid beginning 10 days after vaccination. The vaccine itself is valid for life even if the card shows an expiration date. Travelers without it may be denied entry.

  1. CDC Travelers' Health: International Certificate of Vaccination wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/icvp
    Certificates of yellow fever vaccination are valid beginning 10 days after the date of vaccination
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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