Mandatory Yellow Fever Vaccine Requirement in Costa Rica
Starting February 2025

Starting in February 2025, Costa Rica will enforce a mandatory yellow fever vaccination requirement for all travelers arriving from designated high-risk countries. This policy, implemented by the Costa Rican Ministry of Health, is designed to bolster the country’s public health defenses against the potential spread of the yellow fever virus.

Who Needs the Vaccine?

The yellow fever vaccination requirement applies to all travelers entering Costa Rica, including tourists, Costa Rican citizens, and residents, who have visited or transited through high-risk countries. These countries are primarily located in Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America, including Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela.

To comply with this regulation, travelers must present an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) upon arrival in Costa Rica.

Vaccination Requirements for Costa Rican Citizens and Residents

Costa Rican citizens and residents who plan to travel to high-risk countries must receive the yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days prior to departure. This timeline is critical to meet international travel health standards and ensure the issuance of the required International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP).

For information on how to obtain the yellow fever vaccine and request the international vaccination certificate, visit the Ministry of Health’s official website: Costa Rica Ministry of Health – Yellow Fever Information.

Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead to avoid any delays that could affect their travel schedules.

How to Prepare for Your Trip to Costa Rica

Travelers planning to visit Costa Rica in 2025 and beyond should ensure they are vaccinated well in advance if they have recently visited or transited through a high-risk country. The yellow fever vaccine is generally a one-time vaccination that provides lifelong immunity.

For those needing a vaccination certificate, it is advisable to consult a certified travel health clinic or your local healthcare provider to ensure proper documentation is obtained.

Exceptions to the Vaccine Requirement

There are a few exceptions to the mandatory yellow fever vaccination:

• Travelers who are transiting through affected countries without leaving the airport.
• Infants under 9 months of age.
• Individuals with medical contraindications, such as severe allergies to vaccine components or compromised immune systems, who must provide an official medical exemption certificate.

Impact on Tourism

Costa Rica, renowned for its ecotourism and vibrant biodiversity, expects that this new measure will reassure international visitors of the country’s commitment to maintaining high public health standards. In preparation for the change, airlines, tour operators, and travel agencies are being briefed on the new requirements to help travelers plan their trips smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Costa Rica’s introduction of the yellow fever vaccine mandate demonstrates the country’s ongoing commitment to protecting public health and ensuring the safety of both its citizens and the millions of tourists who visit each year. With careful planning, travelers can ensure a smooth entry into this tropical paradise, while contributing to a healthier global travel environment.

Thank you for reading. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are always here to help!

Fabiana Gutiérrez
Director de Migración
Tel: (506) 2103-7294
Correo: fglp@quatro.legal

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, laws and regulations are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please contact our office directly. Some images may be AI generated.