What is the ICVP?
The International Certificate of Vaccination and Prophylaxis (ICVP) — commonly called the "yellow card" — is the official WHO document proving you received the Yellow Fever vaccine at an authorized centre. It is required as a condition of entry to many countries in sub-Saharan Africa and South America, and by Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah.
The key fact most travellers don't know: not every travel clinic or pharmacy can issue the ICVP. Only designated Yellow Fever vaccination centres are authorized to administer the vaccine and stamp and sign the certificate. The Virtual Travel Clinic is one of the few designated providers in the GTA.
How to get your ICVP at TVTC
- Book a virtual consultation — our ISTM CTH® physician screens your health history and confirms you can safely receive the vaccine
- Visit our Toronto pharmacy — same-week appointments available for the Stamaril injection
- Receive your ICVP — issued, stamped, and signed on the day of vaccination. Valid for life.
The 10-day rule
The ICVP is valid for international travel entry starting 10 days after vaccination. Even if you receive the vaccine today, most countries will not accept the certificate for entry until 10 full days have passed. Book your vaccination at least 10–14 days before departure.
How long does the certificate last?
Under 2016 WHO guidance, a single Yellow Fever vaccination is valid for life for most healthy adults. The ICVP you receive has no expiry date. Some older documents or border agents reference a "10-year" validity — this was the previous standard and is no longer current WHO policy.
Which countries require it?
Countries that require ICVP as a condition of entry from ALL travellers include: Ghana, Cameroon, Togo, Niger, Côte d'Ivoire, Congo, Paraguay, French Guiana, and Saudi Arabia (Hajj/Umrah). Many more require it from travellers arriving from endemic countries.
Cost
The ICVP is included in the vaccine fee — no separate certificate charge. Yellow Fever vaccine (Stamaril) costs approximately $150–$200. One-time cost, lifetime validity.
Book your ICVP consultation at Virtual Travel Clinic — serving Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, and all of Ontario virtually.
Sources: WHO International Travel and Health | PHAC Travel Health
Need travel health advice?
Our licensed physicians create a personalized travel health plan for your destination. Vaccines administered at our Toronto pharmacy.
Book your consultation