Whether or not a traveler needs a yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter South Africa depends primarily on their country of origin, travel history and transit routes. South Africa follows strict health regulations to prevent the spread of yellow fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness that can be transmitted across borders through international travel. To help travelers understand the exact requirements and avoid entry issues, detailed guidance is available in the South Africa Health & Vaccination Requirements Guide on this Premier Travel & Tourism visa page.
Who Must Present a Yellow Fever Certificate?
South Africa requires a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate from travelers who:
- Arrive from a yellow fever-endemic country or
- Transit through an endemic country for more than 12 hours or
- Have recently visited a yellow fever risk zone, even if now traveling from a non-risk country.
The rule applies regardless of nationality. What matters is where the traveler has been-not their passport.
Yellow Fever-Endemic Countries
Many regions in Central and West Africa, as well as parts of South America, are classified as yellow fever-endemic. Countries include (but are not limited to):
- Angola
- Kenya
- Nigeria
- Uganda
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Cameroon
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- South Sudan
- Zambia
- Brazil
- Peru
Travelers coming from any of these regions must carry a valid certificate upon arrival in South Africa.
Transit Through an Endemic Country
Even if a traveler is not staying in an endemic country but only transiting for more than 12 hours, South Africa still requires proof of vaccination.
Examples include:
- Long layovers
- Airport transfers
- Overnight airport stays
Travelers must check their full itinerary to determine whether a certificate is needed.
Who Is Exempt From the Requirement?
South Africa does not require a yellow fever certificate from:
- Travelers arriving directly from non-endemic countries
- Passengers transiting through endemic countries for less than 12 hours
- Infants younger than 1 year old
- Travelers with medically certified contraindications (a doctor’s exemption letter may be necessary)
However, travelers with a medical exemption may undergo additional screening upon arrival.
Validity of the Yellow Fever Certificate
A yellow fever vaccination certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination and remains valid for life. Travelers must ensure their certificate:
- Is the original approved International Certificate of Vaccination
- Is not damaged or unreadable
- Contains official stamps and signatures
Digital copies are not accepted at South African borders.
Consequences of Not Having a Required Certificate
Travelers who are unable to present a required yellow fever certificate may face:
- Denied boarding by the airline
- Denied entry into South Africa
- Mandatory quarantine at the traveler’s expense
- Immediate deportation to the origin country
South African health officers strictly enforce these regulations for public health safety.
Why South Africa Enforces This Rule
Yellow fever poses a significant health risk and South Africa aims to prevent outbreaks within its borders. The certificate requirement protects both travelers and local communities, ensuring safe travel for all.
Whether you need a yellow fever vaccination certificate for South Africa depends on your travel route and exposure to high-risk countries. Travelers coming from or transiting through endemic regions must present a valid certificate upon arrival. Ensuring compliance with vaccination rules helps avoid travel disruptions and ensures a smooth entry process.