Do you need a yellow fever vaccination certificate for Nigeria’s eVisa?

If you’re traveling to Nigeria soon, the yellow fever vaccination certificate could make or break your entry, so make sure you're prepared.

It is a mandatory requirement for travelers from dozens of countries, and Nigerian immigration can deny entry if you don’t have it.

Additionally, make sure to have a valid Nigeria eVisa (if required) and landing card.

Who needs a yellow fever vaccination for Nigeria?

You must show proof of yellow fever vaccination if you're:

• Arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission:

*The risk of yellow fever transmission is present only in parts of the country.

• Transiting through one of those countries for more than 12 hours.

This applies even if you’re just connecting through an airport. No exceptions.

📍 Coming from a non-risk country like the UK or US? You don’t need the vaccine unless you had a long stopover in a risk country on the way.

What is accepted as proof of yellow fever vaccination?

Travelers must carry a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), more commonly known as the yellow card.

• In most countries, you'll get this after receiving your vaccine.

• If you didn't get a certificate, contact the centre where you were vaccinated to see if they can provide you with a duplicate certificate from their records.

Show the printed certificate when asked on arrival in Nigeria.

When to get vaccinated against yellow fever?

Make sure to get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel. The vaccine needs time to become effective. One dose usually gives lifelong protection.

Do I need a yellow fever certificate for the Nigeria eVisa application?

No. It's possible to apply for the Nigeria eVisa without a yellow fever certificate. However, you may be asked for the yellow fever vaccination records upon boarding or on arrival in Nigeria.

Will Nigeria check your vaccination certificate?

Yes. Upon arrival, Nigerian immigration officers may request your yellow fever certificate:

• At the airport health desk before passport control.

• Alongside your Nigeria eVisa and landing card documents.

If you don’t have it, and you're coming from a risk country, you may be refused entry or required to get vaccinated at the airport at your own expense.

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, explains:

“Even if you’re not asked for the certificate, you’re still legally required to have it if your route includes a yellow fever risk country. Immigration checks are random, don’t risk being turned away."

Checklist: What to prepare for your Nigeria trip

✅ Check if your home or transit country is on the yellow fever risk list.

✅ Get your vaccine and yellow card at least 10 days before departure.

✅ Apply for both your [Nigeria eVisa (if you need one) and landing card (mandatory for all travelers)](/nigeria/c/nigeria-landing-card-vs-evisa-what-is-the-difference) online quickly through iVisa.

💡 Travel tip from our expert Femke Strietman:

“After May 30, 2025, visa on arrival will no longer be accepted. All eligible travelers must apply for an eVisa online before flying.”

Check if you need a Nigerian eVisa instantly below:

✅ Get the Nigeria exit card within 96 hours before leaving Nigeria on the official government website.

Other vaccinations to consider for a trip to Nigeria

While the yellow fever vaccine is the only required vaccination for entry (if you're coming from or transiting through risk countries), several others are strongly recommended to protect your health during your trip.

While the above vaccinations are recommended, always speak to a health advisor or travel clinic for up-to-date information. Start preparing at least 6–8 weeks before departure to ensure you have time for all required doses.

Contact us for more questions about traveling to Nigeria

If you run into any issues applying for a Nigerian visa or landing card, let us know. Our team can guide you through the process via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.