PHS Form 731: Yellow Card Vaccination Certificate Guide – Planning international travel from the USA? Many countries require proof of specific vaccinations, especially yellow fever, to prevent disease spread. The PHS Form 731, now officially known as the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) or “Yellow Card,” serves as the globally recognized document for this purpose.
This WHO-approved form (also called CDC 731 or Form CDC-731) helps U.S. travelers avoid entry denial, quarantine, or on-site revaccination. Understanding it is crucial for smooth journeys to destinations in Africa, South America, or other yellow fever risk areas.
What Is PHS Form 731 / ICVP?
The International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis is the official document mandated under the World Health Organization’s International Health Regulations (IHR). It records vaccinations or prophylaxis (preventive treatments) required for international travel.
- Formerly PHS-731: This Public Health Service form was updated and is now commonly referred to as the CDC 731 Yellow Card.
- Primary Use: Documenting yellow fever vaccination, the only vaccine currently requiring this specific international certificate. Some countries also accept it for other vaccines like polio in certain contexts.
- Why It Matters for Americans: Yellow fever vaccination proof is mandatory for entry into many countries, even for transit layovers. Without a valid ICVP, you risk being turned away at borders.
The certificate is a small yellow booklet (hence the name “Yellow Card” or Carte Jaune) printed in English and French, with space for official stamps and signatures.
Who Needs the Yellow Card?
U.S. travelers need an ICVP if:
- Traveling to or through countries that require yellow fever vaccination.
- Coming from or transiting yellow fever risk areas (check CDC destination pages for your itinerary).
- Military, government, or certain deployment travelers (often emphasized in DoD guidance).
Note: Routine U.S. vaccines (e.g., MMR, tetanus) do not require this form, but yellow fever does. Always verify requirements for your specific destinations via the CDC Travelers’ Health site.
How to Get the PHS Form 731 / ICVP?
- Visit a Certified Yellow Fever Vaccination Clinic: Only authorized clinics can administer the vaccine and issue/validate the ICVP with the official uniform stamp. Find one via the CDC’s search tool.
- Receive the Vaccine: The single-dose yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong protection for most people. It becomes valid 10 days after administration.
- Complete the Form: The clinician fills it out correctly (see details below) and stamps it.
Important: CDC does not issue ICVPs or keep your records. You must obtain it from the vaccinating clinic.
How to Fill Out the ICVP? (Key Instructions)
Proper completion is critical—errors can invalidate it:
- Print your name exactly as on your passport.
- Use day/month/year format (e.g., 22 March 2025) — no slashes.
- List the vaccine as “Yellow Fever.”
- Clinician provides handwritten signature (no stamps).
- Include vaccine manufacturer and lot number.
- Enter “life of person vaccinated” for validity (boosters are no longer required under IHR).
- Official stamp of the administering center is mandatory.
For lost or damaged cards, authorized clinicians can reissue after verifying records.
Where to Download or Order PHS Form 731?
- Official Purchase: Buy physical booklets in packs (25 or 100) from the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) bookstore. These are the authentic WHO/CDC versions.
- Military/Air Force Versions (for reference or specific use): Downloadable PDFs and EPUBs are available via official channels, such as:
PHS Form 731 PDF
PHS Form 731 EPUB
Note: Always use stamped originals from certified clinics for travel. - WHO Version: Also available through international sources, but U.S. travelers typically use the CDC/GPO edition.
Medical Waivers and Exemptions
If you cannot receive the yellow fever vaccine due to contraindications (e.g., age, immune conditions, allergies), a medical waiver letter on official letterhead may be accepted by some countries. Discuss with your travel clinic. However, this does not guarantee entry—plan alternative routes if possible.
Tips for U.S. Travelers
- Check Requirements Early: Use CDC’s destination tool and contact embassies.
- Timing: Get vaccinated at least 10 days (ideally 4+ weeks) before travel.
- Carry with Passport: Keep the ICVP with your travel documents.
- Validity: Lifetime for the vaccine; the card itself should reflect this.
- Additional Resources: CDC Yellow Book for clinicians and detailed guidance.
Common Questions
Is the Yellow Card still required in 2026?
Yes, for yellow fever risk areas under current IHR.
Can I use a digital version?
Most countries require the physical stamped card. Digital proofs are generally not accepted.
Cost?
Vaccine and clinic fees vary; blank forms are inexpensive in bulk from GPO.
Protect your health and travel plans by securing your PHS Form 731 / ICVP through official channels. Safe travels!
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult the CDC, a travel medicine specialist, or official government sources for the latest requirements, as rules can change.