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Up-to-Date Info: To find the latest CDC information on this topic go to: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

Your CDC COVID-19 vaccination record and vaccination card

July 12, 2022

By National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (U.S.). Division of Viral Diseases.
Corporate Authors: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (U.S.). Division of Viral Diseases.
Description: Updated July 12, 2022 Know the Difference between a Vaccine Record and a Vaccine Card Vaccine Record (sometimes called immunization records) provide a history of all the vaccines you received. This record may be required for certain jobs, travel abroad, or a school registration. Vaccine Card is specific to COVID-19 vaccination and is given to you when you get your COVID-19 vaccine. More ▼ -->
Content Notes: What to Do If You Lost Your Vaccine Card -- Getting a QR Code or Digital Copy of Your COVID-19 Vaccination Card -- If You Were Vaccinated Abroad -- Vaccination Card Fraud.
Subjects: [+] COVID-19 Vaccines COVID-19/prevention & Control Immunization Programs Medical Records Pandemics Vaccination Vaccination Coverage
Document Type: Webpage
Place as Subject: United States
Collection(s): Stephen B. Thacker CDC Library collection
Main Document Checksum: [+] urn:sha256:85daa79455f9a9f0b16633835c3a6a948c85af2d34b5d8ee1dab463684b7dadc
Download URL: https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/119129/cdc_119129_DS1.pdf

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Vaccine passports: How to prove you've gotten your COVID-19 shots for travel and avoid scams

Beth Marcus wants a vaccine passport. She's had both of her shots but can't prove it. Unless she can, she's afraid she may not be allowed to visit Europe.

How do you get a vaccine passport ?

The clinic where she received her shots issued a COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – a small, white paper card where she recorded both her vaccinations. Marcus, a retired finance worker from Frederick, Maryland, took a picture of the card, so she could show it to anyone who asks. She suspects it's not enough.

"I would like more substantial proof," she says.

New York launches nation's first 'vaccine passports': Others work on similar ideas, but many details must be worked out

Will you need a COVID-19 'vaccine passport' to travel? Here's what they are and how they might work

Israel and Europe have taken the lead on developing a secure digital immunity certification. You may be able to get a COVID-19 vaccine passport by enrolling in one of the tests underway. In the meantime, you have a few imperfect options for showing you received your shots.

What is a vaccine passport? How would it work for travel?

"There's no vaccine passport in the United States," says Peter Vlitas, senior vice president of airline relations for Internova Travel Group. But we're close. The most promising one is the IATA Travel Pass . It's being tested among 22 airlines, and the airline trade organization expects to release it this month. It will be limited to air travel and border crossings.

Vaccine passports: The documents should be free, private and secure, White House says, but who will issue them?

TripActions ' app-based health passport, a private initiative that launches early next month, will allow travelers to upload and store all necessary documentation required for domestic and international travel within a centralized hub.

The only vaccine passport in widespread use is Israel's Green Pass . The certificate, available as either a smartphone app or paper ID using a QR code for authentication, allows users to prove their vaccine status in Israel. Passholders use their credentials to visit the gym, pool, restaurant or participate in any other activity previously restricted because of COVID-19. Only Israeli residents qualify for a Green Pass, but Israel is in discussions with other countries to have the passes accepted outside the country, according to the Ministry of Tourism.

The European Union is developing a Digital Green Certificate to prove people have had their shots and "facilitate safe free movement" inside the EU during the pandemic. The vaccine ID, which is likely to be available by June, will be available in digital or paper format.

In the USA, airlines have been pushing the government to create a vaccine passport for Americans , saying verifiable testing of vaccination data is "critical to the return of travel."

New York launched a version of a vaccine passport. The first-in-the-nation certification, called the Excelsior Pass, will be accepted at dozens of event, arts and entertainment venues statewide.

Patchwork problems: Airlines ask White House to develop standardized COVID-19 travel 'passports'

There are so many vaccine passport proposals that it's almost impossible to track all of them, but they all have one thing in common: They are not officially recognized, at least for now.

What should travelers do?

"There's a rush to deliver a digital vaccine passport solution, as many countries will make it mandatory to have proof of vaccinations and actively court vaccinated travelers," says Rajeev Shrivastava, CEO of VisitorsCoverage .

How do you prove you're vaccinated? Here are your options:

Think about laminating your COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card

That's what Paula Miller and her husband did.

"We felt that they would hold up better when we need to present them while traveling domestically or internationally," says Miller, a retired teacher from Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

Like Marcus, she'd prefer the real thing.

"We have flights to Paris scheduled for November," she says. "I hope that issue is resolved by then."

The biggest problem with lamination: The document isn't secure. (You can buy a COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card online for about $20 and fill it in yourself.) If boosters are needed, a laminated card might be a problem. But until we have a vaccine passport, this may have to do.

Fill in your WHO Yellow Card

If you received shots for a previous international trip, you have a World Health Organization (WHO) Yellow Card (International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis). "The Yellow Card has been the de facto standard for proving international vaccination compliance for decades," says Warren Jaferian , the dean for Endicott College 's Office of International Education in Beverly, Massachusetts.

I have a Yellow Card from previous trips, and when I received my shots, I asked the clinic to record the vaccines. I had to ask a supervisor, but he did. There are two issues with the Yellow Card. They are scarce (some have reported they're unavailable), and they are not secure. An e-Yellow Card is reportedly under development.

Fly on a Travel Pass airline

If you can book a ticket on one of the airlines testing the IATA Travel Pass , you may be able to access the IATA vaccine passport. Those carriers include Virgin Atlantic, Japan's ANA, Emirates and Singapore Airlines. Travel Pass is still being evaluated, so there's no assurance that your digital passport will work on your next flight or that it will be accepted anywhere.

Until there's a real vaccine passport, you'll need to get creative. Marcus, who plans to visit the Baltics next year, created her own makeshift vaccine ID.

"I made a color copy of the original and had it laminated at Staples," she says. "I didn't laminate the original because I want it to be possible for boosters, if needed, to be recorded on the same document."

She hopes it will work. Timing is everything when it comes to certifying vaccination. At the rate things are going, the pandemic will end before America has a real vaccine passport.

Avoid these vaccine passport traps

Don't pay for it. A legitimate vaccine ID is free. Both the Israeli and proposed European version cost nothing. There are some unofficial vaccine IDs in the USA that make you pay for certification. They are not legit.

Make sure it's secure. You can buy a COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card or a World Health Organization Yellow Card online and fill it out. But it's not a secure record of your vaccination, and it probably won't work when the real thing comes along. Avoid any vaccine passport that doesn't have a QR code or a way to authenticate your vaccine status securely.

Find out if it's accepted. Several cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean , Virgin Voyages , Crystal Cruises and American Cruise Lines , announced they will begin to require proof of vaccination for passengers (at least on some of their voyages), though they haven't specified which records will be accepted. Your travel adviser can tell you what type of proof will be accepted by the cruise line. Don't take chances – get the right vaccine passport, or you could be left high and dry.

COVID-19 vaccine tracker: How many people have been vaccinated in the US?

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How to Prove You're Vaccinated for COVID-19

You may need to prove your vaccination status for travel or work, or to attend an event. Paper credentials usually work, but a new crop of digital verification apps is adding confusion.

Collage of images related to the COVID-19 vaccine

Retired Tennessee farmer Tom Anderson, 75, and his wife Barbara, 65, flew to Egypt in September to celebrate their 25 th wedding anniversary on a Nile River cruise. After their plane arrived in Cairo, an Egyptian official demanded to see electronic proof of COVID-19 vaccination shown in a QR code.

“We had our actual (CDC) card, and they said, ‘Where are your QR codes?’” Barbara recalls. “And we said, ‘We don’t know what you are talking about.’”

Adds Tom: “We tried our best to reason with them, and they said, ‘No, you have to have the QR code.’”

Egyptian officials put them back on the next flight out en route to Memphis, where they arrived after 57 hours total for the round-trip travel. Apparently, the Egyptian rules had changed since the Andersons had prepared their paperwork, requiring electronic proof of vaccination.

Their story is an extreme one, but it shows how fluid and inconsistent the task of proving your vaccination status can be in a world where that particular piece of information is becoming increasingly important.

Depending on where you live, you may have to show that you are inoculated to keep your job, eat in a restaurant, attend a concert or ball game, work out in a gym, or travel. So it pays to have your credential at the ready.

The most obvious way to do this is with the CDC vaccination card that vaccine providers typically give out when you get your shot. But many employers and venues are encouraging workers and consumers to use digital verification apps, and some consumers may prefer not to carry their card everywhere, thus the appeal of a digital vaccine “passport” on your cell phone.

However, electronically answering what is basically a simple yes-or-no question has become surprisingly controversial, confusing, and time consuming. That’s because the rules vary by country and by state, with some states refusing to issue or even allow such a credential. Layered on top of that, different firms offer their own versions of COVID-19 vaccination passports.

“The U.S. is a mess, because there isn’t a centralized approach,” says Darren Toh, CEO of AOKpass, a Singapore-based company working with some American companies to verify that employees are vaccinated, as well as with some airlines.

“It’s baffling,” he continues. “The United States seems to be this unique bundle of chaotic people moving at different speeds and in different directions. You can juxtapose it with the EU response, which is quite centralized.”

Some U.S. cities, including New York and Los Angeles, are requiring vaccination for most indoor venues, but in most of the country, figuring out when you might need proof of vaccination is a confusing guessing game. For example, among amusement parks in southern California, Disneyland does not require a vaccine credential or recent COVID-19 tests, but Universal Studios Hollywood , 35 miles to the north, does.

“We’re stuck with this fractured, uneven, confusing system of ad hoc vaccine certifications, and we just have to struggle with it,” says Josh Michaud, PhD, the associate director for global health policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation. “Depending on where you live in the United States, you may have rules against using digital vaccine certifications . . . mostly Republican, mostly conservative states.”

“But for the other states, where it is an option, you do face a slew of different potential options,” he continues. “Once you explain all of that, you basically have confused the hell out of people.”

Given this reality, here are some insights on how to sort through the choices consumers have in order to prove that they are indeed vaccinated.

How to Prove You're Vaccinated

Having trouble sorting through vaccine verification options? Jump to our situation-by-situation guide , below.

Good Ol' Paper

First the good news: Your paper CDC vaccination card works in most places, whether you want to attend a basketball game, go to a concert, or visit a museum.

Chris Beyrer, MD, MPH, a professor of public health and human rights at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, carries his paper card in his wallet everywhere but acknowledges that relying on that document alone has downsides. “If you lose it or it’s destroyed, there isn’t necessarily an easy way to get it back,” he says.

Others might not want to carry that pesky card everywhere. Fortunately, a photo of both sides of the CDC card, kept on your phone or printed out, is typically accepted as evidence of vaccination. “In this case, more is more—as many forms of documentation as you can, the better,” Beyrer says.

Digital Proof

At present, about 150 million Americans can also access digital proofs of their COVID-19 vaccinations , according to Vaccination Credential Initiative (VCI), a coalition of public and private organizations working on enabling standards for SMART Health Cards —a fancy-sounding term for digital medical records such as vaccine histories. (The records can also be printed out.) Its members include electronic health records companies Epic and Cerner, as well as Microsoft.

“A paper CDC card, as well as a photocopy, is not easily verifiable, can be misplaced, and is subject to forgery,” says Brian Anderson , MD, a VCI co-founder and chief digital health physician at MITRE , a government contractor that works on federally funded research. “Digital vaccination verification tools—like SMART Health Cards—contain a machine-readable QR code that provides for verification, is resistant to forgery, and can be easily re-obtained if a paper or digital copy is lost.”

Yet things become confusing when you try to figure out which digital credential you should use. Unlike a U.S. passport, which is the same for all Americans, a digital credential can come from one of many state or local entities, or dozens of private companies. But unlike regular passports, the vaccination credentials are free to individuals, with government or businesses bearing the cost.

Your first step should be to check whether your state issues COVID-19 vaccination credentials or works with an outside company. Among the states with their own vaccination verifications are New York and California , where 7.5 million residents had downloaded a SMART Health Card QR code as of early November, according to the California Department of Public Health.

VCI currently lists eight states as issuing their own SMART Health Cards. In theory, any state can issue electronic proof of your vaccination, or allow an outside company to do so, because all U.S. states maintain their own vaccine registries, as do New York City; Washington, D.C.; and San Antonio. The CDC maintains a list of links and contacts for these registries , known as Immunization Information Systems.

Los Angeles County and New York City (via Google Play or the Apple Store ) also allow the vaccinated to download a credential that they sponsor.

“I’m not sure what the point of this app really is,” one user wrote in a Google Play store review of the NYC COVID Safe app. “You take a picture of your vaccine card and store it locally? You might as well just create a photo directory for your vaccine card. It’s exactly the same thing.” Spokespeople for the mayors’ offices in Los Angeles and New York did not respond to requests for comment.

Apple iPhone users with iOS 15.1 can also download verifiable credentials (as opposed to a simple photo of a vaccine card) to their Wallet or Health app. Google offers a similar feature for Android devices .

As if things were not confusing enough, MyIR, an app working with seven states—Arizona, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Dakota, West Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia, as well as Washington, D.C.—announced in late October that digital vaccine credentials were being temporarily suspended (PDF). (Residents of these states can still obtain other digital vaccine credentials.) The problem is that MyIR aggregates data from various states and providers rather than directly on the behalf of each, according to VCI, the group working on standards for SMART Health Cards.

“Chaos is the right word,” says Mike Popovich, CEO of STChealth, which operates MyIR. “There seems to be a push for who controls the credentialing space, which I suppose is natural.”

Growing Pains

Once you figure out which options are available in your state, it may take just a few minutes to get set up, but it is also possible that you may have to invest a bit of time to get your digital vaccination certification. State websites typically ask for name, date of birth, and mobile phone number or email address, but each system has its own quirks.

For example, North Carolina’s COVID-19 Vaccine Portal tells users to click ‘Forgot Your Username’ the first time they are accessing the system.

My own initial effort to download New York State’s Excelsior Pass failed, and the website directed me to call the pharmacy where I received my vaccinations. After two calls to CVS and 15 minutes on hold I was able to update the phone number they had on file. Then I logged back in to the Excelsior site and got an error message: “It seems like we’re having some issues behind the scenes preventing us from helping you.” I tried again some hours later and somehow it then worked.

Speaking in general about vaccine certification efforts, JP Pollak, co-founder of the Commons Project , a nonprofit group whose projects include a vaccination credential you can download via Apple’s App Store or Google Play , says, “We’re experiencing a lot of expected growing pains.”

Ramin Bastani, CEO of Healthvana , which provides digital COVID-19 credentials for Los Angeles County, says tiny differences in data can clog up the system. “It’s not a perfect process,” he says. “You may have registered in one particular area, and your name is James, but then somewhere else, you registered your name as Jim for that second shot. So those have to actually be matched in some way.”

I encountered more roadblocks when I tried to obtain additional proof of my COVID-19 vaccinations.

Electronic health records system Epic offers vaccination credentials to 64 million Americans through its MyChart system, and that number is set to raise to 100 million next year, according to implementation executive Nick Frenzer. But when I logged on to my account, MyChart showed just one of my two vaccinations. Frenzer later said there was a mismatch between the New York State registry and my healthcare provider’s record.

CVS , Walmart , and other large pharmacy chains also offer digital records from their websites. When I tried to download my vaccination record via the CVS website, I received a “PM2 error” message related to verifying my identity. Rather than invest time in untangling the problem, I gave up.

Controversy Over COVID-19 Passports

Adding to the confusion is the politicization of COVID-19 vaccinations and documentation, with 21 states, including Florida and Texas, banning vaccine passports altogether, according to the National Academy for State Health Policy, which maintains a map showing various state mandates and other COVID-related details .

“We are opposed to the idea of a national Green Pass on principle,” says Christina Pushaw, press secretary for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. “COVID-19 vaccination records are private medical information. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination should not be required to participate in society, and the Green Pass creates a two-tiered society that we do not want to see in Florida.”

Green Pass is a system of vaccine credentials first used in Israel and then adopted in Europe and other countries.

The Florida governor’s office’s stance mirrors the sentiments of many Americans. For example, among Texans, 39 percent in August were strongly opposed to a vaccine passport, with only 33 percent strongly supporting the idea, according to a University of Texas at Austin poll . Some companies involved in COVID-19 vaccination documentation say privately that they have been subject to harassment or threats.

Nonetheless, residents of Florida, Texas, and other states that have banned vaccine passports may still have to prove their status outside their home states, especially when visiting cities with strict vaccine mandates for many public spaces. For example, anyone wanting to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City must either show a CDC paper vaccine card or photo of it, New York’s Excelsior Pass, a New York City vaccination record or COVID-19 app, or an official record from outside New York.

What about those without proof of vaccine? “Visitors who cannot display their proof of vaccination are welcome to enjoy the Museum’s virtual offerings,” the museum says .

If you live in a state that does not offer digital credentials, see whether your pharmacy or electronic health system linked to your healthcare provider can provide you with a digital proof. Otherwise, carry your paper card when needed.

Convenience for Whom?

The simplest proof of vaccination—the paper CDC certificate—requires the least effort for the individual and may offer the most privacy. “Whoever is more concerned about privacy, going for the option that doesn’t require any scanning of a QR code is better,” says Lucy Yang, community director of the COVID Credentials Initiative . “But from a public health perspective, the options that don’t require verifications of a digitally signed credential are more prone to fraud.”

The cyber security firm Check Point has reported that prices for fake CDC cards have soared to as much as $200 each by early fall amid a boom in demand with the arrival of various vaccine mandates. States such as New York have warned against the use of fraudulent cards, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection has seized shipments of fake cards .

Companies that must verify many credentials often prefer digital COVID-19 vaccine certificates because they are quicker to scan. Some venues, including those used by sports teams such as the Las Vegas Raiders, Seattle Seahawks, Nashville Predators, and Golden State Warriors, have partnered with CLEAR —the publicly traded, for-profit company whose security screening stations you may have noticed in airport terminals. CLEAR is also accepted to prove COVID-19 vaccination status to enter Hawaii .

CLEAR does not have direct access to state vaccination registries, so they ask people to either upload their CDC card and information, scan QR codes issued by the states, or link to a vaccine provider or pharmacy that works with them.

Privacy and Other Concerns

Many healthcare experts think that a unified national system of COVID-19 vaccination credentials akin to the European Union’s Green Pass or similar programs in some Asian countries would be far easier and less confusing. “I think these kinds of small, ad-hoc approaches are likely fraught with problems,” says Beyrer at Johns Hopkins. “This is such a challenge, the way the country is divided among these political lines.”

With so many private companies and government agencies hastily developing digital vaccine credentials, some experts fear these systems will incorporate security and privacy vulnerabilities. What’s more, vaccine apps are typically not covered by federal laws restricting the release of medical information.

“Paper proof of vaccination raises fewer concerns, as does a digital photo of a paper card displayed on a phone screen,” the Electronic Frontier Foundation wrote in an August article . “Of much greater concern are scannable vaccination credentials, which might be used to track people’s physical movements through doors and across time.”

Kaliya Young, an expert on digital identity verification working on the COVID Credentials Initiative, is also concerned that the rush to digitize important documents—including health cards and electronic driver’s licenses—will result in faulty designs.

“I’m happy about the digitization—just not happy about the failure to be discerning in those choices pushed by health IT people who don’t care about privacy pushing static QR codes like SMART Health Cards,” she says. Young says static QR codes can easily be copied by anyone who has access to them, and perhaps used by someone who is not the owner. “We will be stuck with bad systems that have baked within them privacy-infringing defaults.”

The Electronic Frontier Foundation experts are also concerned that a company such as CLEAR could combine vaccination details with other personal information. “There is no logical limit to how centralized digital identifications like those created by CLEAR might spread into our lives by facilitating proof of vaccination, and with it new vectors for tracking our movements and activities,” the EFF team wrote in the August article mentioned above.

CLEAR spokesman Ken Lisaius says, “CLEAR does not sell or rent member information. Safety and security are at the heart of everything CLEAR does.”

One company, iProov, has developed a vaccine credential that relies on facial recognition technology . “Without it, a visitor would have to present a vaccine card and a form of ID, and wait while the door-person squints at them to see if the names match, and then at the person to see if they match the photo ID, a process that takes time and effort for everyone,” says Andrew Bud, iProov’s founder and CEO. “With face verification, they just present their card or QR code to the camera, look at it for an instant, and then walk on through.”

Privacy advocates have often expressed concerns about facial recognition, but to date the iProov vaccination verification system is not being used in the U.S., Bud said, and would be used only on a voluntary basis in any case.

So What Should You Do?

The bottom line is that sorting through COVID-19 vaccination credentials involves some time and hassle. Find out whether you can get a vaccine credential through your state, the pharmacy or clinic that administered the vaccination, or your electronic health record system. Then find out what proof businesses require where you live, including activities such as going to the movies, visiting a museum exhibition, or traveling. And keep in mind that the rules today may be different next week.

Airline travel : Airlines must verify their passengers’ vaccination status for international routes, and different carriers offer the option of their own preferred digital verifications. American Airlines uses the VeriFLY app for this list of countries and Delta offers Delta FlyReady . United has its Travel-Ready Center . But you can usually use your paper CDC card for travel, as I have for the past half-year without issue.

The CDC guidelines for international travel start with the following warning: “Do not travel internationally until you are fully vaccinated.”

Employer verification : If your employer requires proof of vaccination, it will detail which documents they accept and how to submit them. Ford Motor Co., which recently announced a vaccine mandate for most of its workers, is collecting digital scans or photos of the CDC card, a spokeswoman said. Federal workers can submit a wider variety of documentation .

Venues : As highlighted throughout this article, different museums, concert halls, and other venues have different rules, and may sometimes be mandated by local rules in cities such as New York or Los Angeles. For example, the Getty Villa Museum and Getty Center in the Los Angeles area require vaccination proof or negative test and advance reservations ; the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland does not ask for vaccination proof but requires advance online ticket purchase . The buildings of the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta are temporarily closed because of COVID-19.

“At this point it’s important for people to check with destinations well in advance to see what sort of proof is required,” says Pollak at the Commons Project. “We’re seeing requirements ranging from paper CDC cards to pictures of CDC cards to requirements for specific apps or QR code formats.”

Lining up your vaccine credentials is worth the effort because two years into the pandemic, COVID-19 is not expected to disappear overnight.

“I think that there’s going to be an ongoing need for this for quite a while as the pandemic is nowhere close to being done,” says Michaud at the Kaiser Family Foundation. “It might be something that we have to contend with here in the United States, at least for another year or so. And depending on circumstances, maybe even longer.”

Adam Tanner

Adam Tanner is a Consumer Reports contributing editor. He is also the author of “Our Bodies, Our Data: How Companies Make Billions Selling Our Medical Records” and an associate at Harvard's Institute for Quantitative Social Science.

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Key Questions about COVID-19 Vaccine Passports and the U.S.

Anna Rouw , Jennifer Kates , and Josh Michaud Published: Apr 15, 2021

As COVID-19 vaccination rolls out in parts of the world, many countries have started to implement or are considering the use of COVID-19 “vaccine passports” – paper or digital forms certifying that a person has been vaccinated against COVID-19 – for purposes of international travel. In addition, some countries are using them for domestic travel and/or access to certain establishments, activities, and events. Such certifications are separate from but related to the issue of vaccine mandates . Where COVID-19 vaccines are mandated, there will be a need to certify vaccine status, and a vaccine passport is a potential tool for that purpose.

The U.S. government is exploring COVID-19 vaccine certifications for use internationally and domestically. The administration has said that a vaccine passport may be required in the future for international travelers entering the U.S., but it will not impose a federal requirement for domestic purposes. However, it is working with the private sector to develop standards around such certifications. Within the U.S., states are landing on different sides of what has quickly become a partisan issue with several states moving to implement passports while others have come out strongly against the idea.

This brief provides an overview of what vaccine passports are, how they are being used, and identifies a number of outstanding policy issues facing the U.S. in both the international and domestic contexts.

What are COVID-19 Vaccine Passports?

A vaccine passport is a paper or digital form certifying that a person has been vaccinated against a particular disease. There is a long history of the use of vaccine certifications for international travel, with many countries currently requiring travelers to present proof of yellow fever vaccination to enter, for example. A COVID-19 vaccine certification for international travel could be used by governments in a number of ways, such as allowing an individual to move across borders more freely by potentially bypassing travel restrictions like testing or quarantine requirements upon arrival. In addition, vaccine passports may be used for domestic purposes, such as to permit individuals access to certain businesses, locations or activities within countries.

Where are COVID-19 Vaccine Passports Being Used Now?

Several countries have already begun to use COVID-19 vaccine passports, with wide variation in policies and implementation. Israel began issuing ‘green passes’ in February 2021 to their vaccinated citizens to allow for less restricted internal movement and access to businesses such as to gyms or theaters. Other countries, such as China and Bahrain , have begun issuing digital vaccine passports to their vaccinated citizens to equip them to travel internationally. Lastly, in several countries, including Georgia , Estonia , Poland , and Seychelles , proof of COVID-19 vaccination allows incoming travelers to avoid certain travel restrictions, such as testing or quarantining. Numerous other countries are considering the use of COVID-19 vaccine passports, either for internal or international movement, including the United Kingdom , Malaysia , Singapore , Greece , Denmark , the EU , and the U.S.

Multiple international organizations have already launched efforts to set standards and coordinate the design and implementation of vaccine passports for international travel, including the World Health Organization , World Economic Forum , International Chamber of Commerce , and the International Air Travel Association . The WHO is undertaking this effort as part of its mandate under the International Health Regulations (IHR) to coordinate among member states to provide a public health response to the international spread of diseases; it is possible that COVID-19 vaccination could be included in an updated version of the IHR (at this time, yellow fever is the only disease listed in the IHR for which countries can require proof of vaccination as a condition of entry).

Will the U.S. Use COVID-19 Vaccine Passports?

There is likely to be growing demand for vaccine certifications for use in the U.S., for international travel as well as domestic purposes. Airlines and tourism groups have already called for vaccine certifications as a way to ease the process of pandemic-era travel; the CDC recently released guidance saying fully vaccinated individuals can resume non-essential travel safely within the U.S. and stating that fully vaccinated persons can consider international travel if they maintain recommended precautions. Federal officials have also indicated that vaccination may in the future be required for entry into the U.S. for incoming travelers; the U.S. currently requires all air passengers coming to the U.S. to have a negative COVID-19 test. 1 Domestically, proof of vaccination may be required for entry into certain federal facilities in the U.S., including military bases and other federal buildings, and a number of U.S. companies and universities have already announced vaccinations will be required for their employees, students, and staff, which will require some kind of certification (see this recent KFF analysis for more discussion of vaccine mandates in the U.S.). Indeed, as stated at a recent meeting of the federal Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), “Proof of individual COVID-related health status is likely to be an important component of pandemic response” and “As more of the population becomes vaccinated, proof of immunization will likely become a major, if not the primary, form of health status validation”.

The Biden administration has made it clear it will not be the role of the federal government to issue vaccine passports or to collect and store individuals’ vaccination data at the federal level, but the government is taking on a coordination role and working with many of the international and domestic vaccine passport initiatives being developed by other parties. For example, President Biden issued an Executive Order directing the State Department to work with the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Air Transport Association, foreign governments and others to establish international travel standards. Further, the order directs the Secretaries of the State Department, Department of Health and Human Services, and Department of Homeland Security, in coordination with relevant international organizations, to assess the feasibility of linking vaccination status with digital certificates for international travel. On the domestic side, the Administration is working with a number of privately-led vaccine passport initiatives already underway, to develop guidelines and address issues such as accessibility, privacy, and other access barriers. There are at least 17 such U.S.-based initiatives involving companies and institutions including Microsoft, IBM, MasterCard, the Mayo Clinic, and MIT. So far, these efforts remain in the development stage and none of these organizations has yet launched a vaccine passport for widespread use in the U.S. In the absence of a widely used vaccine passport system, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “vaccination report card”, which is issued to each vaccinated individual, is being used as proof of vaccination in many cases for access to some activities and facilities. However, these cards can be falsified and lack a digital counterpart, upping the stakes on the need to develop standards and implement security measures.

Individual states are landing on different sides of the issue. Several have launched or are actively exploring the use vaccine certificates with New York being the first state to introduce a COVID-19 vaccine certification pass that would allow individuals to certify their vaccination status in order to access certain social activities. Other states, including Hawaii , are considering similar efforts. At the same time, several governors have come out strongly against vaccine passports, with some issuing executive orders banning their use, as has been done in Florida and Texas , or supporting legislation to prevent them, as in Tennessee . In the absence of a federally issued or sanctioned vaccine passport, and no nationwide private sector initiative yet being adopted, the U.S. may see more state or local level certification initiatives, which may or may not be coordinated across jurisdictions.

What are Key Implementation Issues to Consider?

There are a host of challenges and questions surrounding the design and use of vaccine passports, including issues of equity and access, a lack of uniform standards, and privacy and security.

Equity and access: There have already been significant equity challenges in vaccine roll out and access. Globally, most people in low and middle income countries (LMICs) do not have access to COVID-19 vaccines and may not until 2023 or later, and within the U.S. our analyses show that Black and Hispanic people have been vaccinated at lower rates than White people, and that high poverty and uninsured rates are associated with lower vaccination rates in many U.S. counties. In addition, non-citizen immigrants in the U.S. who, while eligible for free COVID-19 vaccination, may be reluctant to access the vaccine and/or to sign up for a vaccine passport that would require sharing of personal or other information with authorities. Further, it is still an ongoing question as to how populations that are either ineligible or unable to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, such as children under the age of 16, people with medical exceptions and those with religious objections, will be included in a COVID-19 vaccine passport system. Lastly, the process to sign up for a vaccine passport itself may present additional access issues, particularly for some groups. Given these inequities, some have cited concerns that proof of vaccination as a condition to access certain activities, such as travel or specific venues, has the potential to be discriminatory. For this reason, the World Health Organization’s Emergency Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic officially cautioned countries against the use of requiring COVID-19 vaccine passports for international travel at this time, stating that COVID-19 vaccination should not exempt individuals from other risk-reduction measures while traveling and noting that vaccination as a requirement to travel would inequitably impact individuals in LMICs. Likewise, a coalition of travel organizations recently expressed concerns about imposing a travel-related vaccine requirement, recommending that vaccinated individuals be exempt from international testing requirements but that vaccination not be a “prerequisite to travel.” The EU, in its proposal for a Digital Green Certificate , has said that to ensure freedom of movement with the EU, it would include COVID-19 test certificates and certificates for those who have recovered from COVID-19 as part of its plan, in addition to certification of vaccination. New York state’s Excelsior Pass also allows for the use of a negative COVID-19 test (instead of vaccine certification).

Mutual recognition of passports : Countries that have begun or are considering issuing COVID-19 vaccine passports will need to establish agreements with other countries in order to have these passports recognized for international travel. Already, some of the initial passport proposals demonstrate limitations in this regard. For example, the EU’s proposal would allow for any vaccinated EU citizen to travel freely across all EU member states 2 , but not outside of the EU. Israel has signed an agreement with Cyprus and Greece to allow for international travel, while Malaysia and Singapore are considering an agreement for reciprocal recognition . The U.S. has not yet weighed in on an international standard or indicated what form of passport the government would accept for international arrivals, though such standards are being discussed and developed but have yet to be applied. This has created confusion, and a fragmented approach across countries so far. It is also likely to be an issue within the U.S. as different jurisdictions take varying approaches.

Lack of uniform digital standards : Related to the issue of mutual recognition is that of digital standards. Currently, there is no standardized guidance related to the design of COVID-19 vaccine passports, including any standards for issues such as data privacy or interoperability. One report has identified at least 12 issues that will require international guidance in order to create a universally recognized COVID-19 vaccine passport system. The WHO’s Smart Vaccination Certificate Working Group is currently working to provide such international guidance and standards. The group released its first round of guidance addressing several digital standards issues, including interoperability and minimum data standards, in March 2021. A complete set of recommendations in expected in June 2021, though in the meantime, countries are moving ahead with individual efforts. Within the U.S., the interoperability of individual organization or jurisdiction passport efforts also presents a domestic challenge.

Diverse vaccine authorization and approval landscape: Across countries, different combinations of vaccines have been authorized and administered. Some of the vaccines used in one country may not be recognized or accepted by another country, raising questions about whether and how to certify different vaccines across this landscape for purposes of a vaccine passport. For example, Iceland has stated that only vaccines approved for use by the European Medicines Agency or the WHO will be recognized in order to waive certain screening and quarantine requirements for incoming travelers, which would exclude persons who have been vaccinated with the Russian Sputnik V vaccine or one of the Chinese-developed COVID-19 vaccines. Similarly, the EU’s Digital Green Certificate proposal would also only include vaccines that have received EU-wide authorization. So far, the U.S. has not stated which vaccines it might accept for the purposes of a vaccine passport.

Scientific considerations: The WHO has stated there is a need for further scientific investigation into COVID-19 vaccine products to understand in more detail the extent vaccines reduce transmission, and the strength and duration of immunity provided. For example, Israel’s green passes are only valid for six months starting the week after vaccination, to take into consideration the potential for waning immunity over time. COVID-19 passports may need to consider each vaccine product’s unique immunity profile when issuing certification of vaccine-induced immunity over a certain period of time, a process which becomes even more complicated in the presence of variants with unknown effects on vaccine effectiveness.

Privacy and security: Among the concerns raised in the lack of uniform digital standards and COVID-19 vaccine passports is the issue of privacy and data security. Combining and storing individuals’ vaccination data in a centralized database could expose this information to data breaches and raises questions about oversight and control of that data. In fact, some vulnerabilities have already been detected in COVID-19 vaccine passports under development. Individuals and organizations are less likely to want to participate if these concerns about security and privacy are not adequately addressed.

There are a large number of as-yet uncoordinated efforts underway already to develop vaccine passports. It is not yet clear if or when the U.S. might adopt a vaccine passport standard for cross-border travel or for domestic purposes, and what form such a credential will take or what restrictions it might place on individuals. It is likely that attention to, and calls for, vaccine passports for both international and domestic use will increase over time, as more people are vaccinated and governments and employers seek to find ways to balance public health concerns while also easing a return to some level of normalcy. However, there a number of significant issues to consider related to the design, use, and ethics of vaccine passports, and many questions about how they can and should be implemented in the U.S. and elsewhere.

For incoming travel to the U.S. , individuals are currently required to either provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test within three days of departure or proof of recovery within the last 90 days. As of April 13, vaccination status does not exempt incoming travelers from these requirements.

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The proposal would also allow Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland to opt-in to the program.

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Vaccine Passports: What We Know and What to Consider

Also of Interest

Key Questions About COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates
How are States Addressing Racial Equity in COVID-19 Vaccine Efforts?

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How to use vaccine passports for international travel

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Countries around the world have eased entry requirements for international travelers, but many still require coronavirus tests or proof of vaccination to enter. And for some, not just any proof will do.

Depending on where you’re headed, showing a vaccination card from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may not be enough. You may need to take extra steps before your trip to set up a “ vaccine passport ” that can be digitally verified.

Below, experts detail how vaccine passport s work, how to get them and where you might need one now.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

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Find a COVID-19 vaccine or booster: Search vaccines.gov , text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find locations near you.

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Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. The virus spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets and small particles produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus spreads easily in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor settings.

People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms – ranging from no or mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus. Possible symptoms include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, new loss of taste and smell, sore throat, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Anyone can get COVID-19. However, some people are more likely than others to get very sick if they get COVID-19. These include people who are older, are immunocompromised , or have certain disabilities , or have underlying health conditions . Vaccination, past infection, and timely access to testing and treatment can help protect you from getting very sick from COVID-19.

Yes, you can travel once you have ended isolation . Check CDC guidance for additional precautions, including testing and wearing a mask around others. If you recently had COVID-19 and are recommended to wear a mask, do not travel on public transportation such as airplanes, buses, and trains if you are unable to wear a mask whenever around others.

Get up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel and take steps to protect yourself and others . Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor areas, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs. Take additional precautions if you were recently exposed to a person with COVID-19. Don’t travel while sick.

If you have a weakened immune system or are at increased risk for severe disease talk to a healthcare professional before you decide to travel. If you travel, take multiple prevention steps to provide additional layers of protection from COVID-19, even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. These include improving ventilation and spending more time outdoors, avoiding sick people, getting tested for COVID-19 if you develop symptoms, staying home if you have or think you have COVID-19, and seeking treatment if you have COVID-19.

Consider getting travel insurance in case you need medical care abroad .

Consider getting a COVID-19 test if you:

Develop COVID-19 symptoms before, during, or after travel.
Will be traveling to visit someone who is at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19.
Were in a situation with a greater risk of exposure during travel (e.g., in an indoor, crowded space like an airport terminal while not wearing a mask).

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare professional, and tell them about your recent travel.

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What to Know About Testing and Vaccine Requirements for Travel

Do you need to be vaccinated or have a negative Covid-19 test for your next trip? Check this guide before traveling domestically or abroad.

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By Concepción de León

As vaccinations ramp up and regulations loosen for people in the United States, many are planning travel for summer and beyond, with experts predicting that July 4 will be the biggest travel weekend since the beginning of the pandemic.

But with regulations shifting, people might have questions about testing or vaccination requirements for their trips. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently eased travel recommendations to more than 100 countries. On June 18, the European Union added the United States to its “safe list” of countries , meaning that both vaccinated and unvaccinated American travelers should now be able to visit the 27 member countries, but these member states are allowed to set their own requirements and restrictions for travelers.

In the United States, the C.D.C. has advised that vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks in most places and released new travel guidelines that said domestic travel is safe for them. But travelers must take note of local advice and regulations, as these can vary state by state.

Here’s everything you need to consider about testing and vaccinations before you travel within the U.S. or internationally.

Are there testing and vaccination requirements for domestic travel?

For most places, no. You do not need to be vaccinated for any domestic travel. Hawaii is the only state that requires a negative test for travel.

In Hawaii, the test must be administered within 72 hours of arrival and the results uploaded to its Safe Travel platform to avoid a mandatory quarantine when entering the state.

Alternatively in Hawaii, you can also provide proof that you’ve recovered from Covid-19 in the past 90 days, including both a positive test result and a letter from a doctor clearing you to travel.

The state’s governor, David Ige, said this month that people who received their vaccination in the state of Hawaii may bypass testing and quarantine requirements starting on June 15, and that anyone vaccinated in the U.S. will be able to enter Hawaii without testing once the state has reached a 60 percent vaccination rate.

If you are unvaccinated, you should continue to adhere to social distancing and mask-wearing protocols while traveling domestically, the C.D.C. said . You can use the C.D.C.’s Travel Planner to check guidelines by state.

What are the testing and vaccination rules for international travel?

While testing and vaccination requirements vary by destination country, everyone arriving in the U.S. — even vaccinated Americans — must present a negative test result upon entry .

Many nations are still closed to American travelers. Those that are open may require a negative test, proof of vaccination or evidence of recovery (or a combination of these) to enter.

The United Kingdom , for instance, requires that American travelers, regardless of vaccination status, provide proof of a negative test taken within 72 hours of departure, quarantine upon arrival and take two additional tests during their stay. Children under 11 are exempt from these requirements, as are some other people depending on their reason for travel.

Some European countries have been allowing in Americans who are vaccinated or who can show a negative test. Americans are on the European Union’s “safe list” of countries, but while the bloc aims to take a coordinated approach to travel this summer, member states will be allowed to set their own requirements for travelers from individual countries, which could include testing and vaccination.

The E.U. “safe list” also applies to Europe’s border-free Schengen Zone, which includes non-E.U. countries such as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Lichtenstein.

Canada is still closed to Americans , with few exceptions, and will remain so until at least early July, said Patty Hajdu, the country’s minister of health, in a news conference in June.

The U.S.-Mexico land border is closed for nonessential travel until at least June 21, but air travel is allowed and the country does not require a negative test for entry. Because of its high risk level, the C.D.C. recommends that travelers be fully vaccinated before traveling to Mexico.

Consult the C.D.C.’s inventory of international travel health notices for more information on regulations by country.

“Travelers should always check with their airline and the embassy of the country they are visiting to ensure they have the proper documentation required to enter the country,” said Perry Flint, a spokesman for The International Air Transport Association, a global airline industry group.

What test should I take, and where and when?

To enter the U.S., travelers must show a negative result to a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) — PCR is a type of NAAT test — or an antigen test, also known as a rapid test, taken in the three days before departure, according to the C.D.C .

Some airports offer on-site testing, such as Heathrow Airport in England, or Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport in Italy.

Josh Alexander, a New York-based luxury travel agent for Protravel International, said that many international hotels, including most Four Seasons hotels and resorts , are offering on-site rapid tests for free or at a nominal cost.

Testing at local clinics is also available in many places, though you should check availability at your destination ahead of time and book if you can. It may also come at a high cost. Mr. Alexander said that PCR tests abroad can range from $50 to $150.

The C.D.C. said that it allows for a three-day time frame rather than 72 hours to allow flexibility in the time of day the test can be taken. For instance, if you are flying out on a Friday, the test may be taken at any time on Tuesday.

But, when it comes to international destinations, Mr. Alexander recommends erring on the side of caution when timing your test by calculating it based on time of arrival at your destination.

“Rules are constantly changing,” he said, “so we’re just trying to always tell people they should always be as conservative as possible to eliminate any gray area.”

What are the requirements for minors?

The C.D.C. testing recommendations apply to all children 2 years and older, which means your toddler also needs to deliver a negative Covid-19 test to enter the U.S. from abroad. When traveling, children should wear masks, practice social distancing and wash hands often, the C.D.C. said .

“If the kids are age 12 and older, get ’em vaccinated,” said William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University, in an email.

If you’re traveling to a country within the European Union that is open to travelers from the U.S., children who cannot be vaccinated should have a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival at your destination, and additional testing may be required upon arrival.

Travelers should check with their airline or destination country website for relevant requirements.

What if I want to go on a cruise?

Rules vary from one cruise line to another, with some planning to require that all passengers and crew be vaccinated, and others adopting a hybrid model.

But recent laws passed in Florida and Texas banning businesses from requiring proof of vaccination to use their services may complicate this plan.

Celebrity Cruises, set to be the first U.S. cruise ship to restart operations on June 26 from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., said it’s optimistic that a resolution would be reached in time . It is requiring that guests 16 years and older be vaccinated, while children will be tested at the terminal.

Carnival Cruises said on Monday that its first ship would set sail from the Port of Galveston, in Texas, on July 3 and would be available only for vaccinated passengers. Norwegian, which will begin to operate cruises from Miami in August, said it will require the same through October 31 and has threatened to skip Florida ports if the state does not allow cruise lines an exemption from the law banning vaccine requirements.

Christine Duffy, the president of Carnival Cruise Line, said in a statement on June 7 that “the current CDC requirements for cruising with a guest base that is unvaccinated will make it very difficult to deliver the experience our guests expect, especially given the large number of families with younger children who sail with us.”

“As a result, our alternative is to operate our ships from the U.S. during the month of July with vaccinated guests,” she said.

But even if you are vaccinated, you must also consider the requirements of the country where the cruise is disembarking. The Caribbean island of St. Maarten, for instance, where Celebrity Cruises started sailing on June 5, requires a negative test in addition to proof of vaccination.

What documents should I bring with me if I travel?

This will also depend on where you’re going, but a good rule of thumb is to carry your physical vaccine card, if you have it, and proof of a negative test, if it is required.

Mr. Alexander, the travel agent, recommends people bring the original documents. While a number of digital health certificates — which show vaccine status and test results — are in the works, he said, they are not yet widely accepted. You should check, also, that your document is in the correct language. The United Kingdom , for instance, requires that test results be in English, Spanish or French.

CommonPass , from the Geneva-based nonprofit the Commons Project Foundation, and the I.A.T.A. Travel Pass are two apps providing digital access to vaccine and testing records for travel. The European Union will be releasing its own digital Covid certificate for E.U. citizens by July 1, though it is unclear whether Americans will be able to use it.

You should check with your airline to see if the app you want to use will be accepted at your destination. Both the CommonPass and I.A.T.A. websites list destinations and airline partners accepting the digital health certificates.

Mr. Alexander added that some countries, such as Croatia, may also require proof of a return flight or confirmation of your hotel booking or other accommodation, though this is rare. In South Africa, which has implemented a curfew, travelers may need to show their flight ticket to law enforcement officers to show they are allowed to be in transit.

But these shifting regulations should not dissuade people from traveling, Mr. Alexander said.

“If you’re vaccinated and you’re following safe precautions, you can still have a great experience,” he said.

Concepción de León is a travel reporter based in New York. More about Concepción de León

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Coming to France? Your Covid-19 questions answered

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French people who are living abroad, travelling or returning from abroad, as well as visitors from abroad, will find answers below to frequently asked questions on COVID-19 measures.

This FAQ supplements the information on the Conseils aux voyageurs (Travel advice, in French only) section.

— Last updated on 26 August 2022 —

What are the rules relating to the vaccine pass?

Since 14 March 2022, the “vaccine pass” has been lifted in France in all areas where it was previously required (cultural and leisure venues, commercial catering, professional trade shows, etc.). Similarly, the COVID certificate is no longer required as of 1 August 2022.

What are the current rules applied at national borders?

Since the outset of the crisis, the health check system at borders has protected our healthcare system and delayed the arrival into France of worrying variants. This system was removed on 1 August 2022.

Therefore, the rules previously in place for travellers to France no longer apply :

Travellers no longer have any formalities to complete before arriving into mainland or overseas France, and the COVID certificate can no longer be required, irrespective of the country or area of origin;
Proof of a compelling reason for travel can no longer be required ;
Travellers no longer need to present a sworn declaration that they are not infected with COVID-19 and pledge to take an antigen test or biological exam upon arrival in France. This also applies to travel between mainland France and each of the overseas territories.

However, in the event of a dangerous variant, a system requiring a negative virological test upon entering France may be reinstated for travellers arriving from countries believed to be at risk.

The government will thus maintain the option to use “emergency brake” measures for a maximum period of two months, following a recommendation from the Haute autorité de santé (French National Authority for Health) in the event of the emergence and circulation of a new COVID-19 variant which can be a serious health risk, or in overseas territories, if the health system is at risk of saturation.

Furthermore, for foreign travel, a vaccination certificate, a negative test certificate or proof of recovery in EU format may be required by the destination country. It is also recommended to store all relevant documents on the TousAntiCovid application or print them out.

For the health rules in force for entering other countries, travellers should visit the “ Conseils aux voyageurs ” section on the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs website (in French only).

What are the rules concerning mask-wearing in France?

Mask-wearing is no longer mandatory in establishments open to the public, nor on board maritime, river, land and air transport;
Mask-wearing continues to be recommended in enclosed and small spaces, and at large gatherings for vulnerable persons due to their age;
It is also highly recommended in hospitals and retirement homes.
Details on travelling to and from France

International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate

The International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate is a free and secure means of proving your COVID-19 immunisation history when you travel across borders overseas.

The easiest way to get a certificate is by using your Medicare account through myGov , or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app . Go to Services Australia for further details.

If you can’t use these options, visit a Services Australia services centre or contact the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) on 1800 653 809.

To get a certificate, you’ll need to have your passport with you .

How the international certificate works
Eligibility
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COVID-19 proof of vaccination in Canada

On this page, get your proof of vaccination.

About the Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination

Travel outside Canada

Travel within canada, if you have problems using your proof, choose your province or territory.

Select your province or territory to find out how to get or download an updated version of your COVID-19 proof of vaccination.

go to the Alberta COVID Records portal
complete the form to get your proof of vaccination

Alberta: Proof of vaccination

log in to your Health Gateway account
save or print your federal COVID-19 proof of vaccination
you can also request it by phone or visit a Service BC office

British Columbia: Proof of vaccination

go to Manitoba's immunization card portal
request the Pan-Canadian Proof of Vaccination Credential

Manitoba: Proof of vaccination

go to the New Brunswick MyHealthNB portal
log in to your existing account or create an account
select 'View Immunizations' to access, download and print your proof

If you cannot access MyHealthNB, you can still use your provincial proof of vaccination (Record of COVID-19 Immunization).

New Brunswick: Proof of vaccination

go to Newfoundland and Labrador's portal and click on 'View Immunizations'
download the Vaccination Record

Newfoundland and Labrador: Proof of vaccination

go to the Northwest Territories' self-serve COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination Credential request form
once completed, you can download your digital proof of vaccination

Northwest Territories: Proof of vaccination

go to the Nova Scotia COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination portal
your proof will be emailed to you

Nova Scotia: Proof of vaccination

call your local health centre, Iqaluit Public Health, or Qikiqtani General Hospital
schedule a time to pick up your proof of vaccination certificate in person

Nunavut: Proof of vaccination

go to Ontario's COVID-19 vaccination portal
enter your health card number
download your enhanced vaccine certificate

Ontario: Proof of vaccination

go to the Prince Edward Island COVID-19 Immunization Record website
get your immunization record (also called the PEI Vax Pass ) from the My COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination Portal

Prince Edward Island: Proof of vaccination

The COVID-19 proof of vaccination is no longer available in Quebec. To get a copy of your vaccination information, you must submit a request to the Quebec Vaccination Registry .

Quebec: Proof of vaccination

access your Saskatchewan account
you can print it, download it, store it in the SK Vax Wallet app or view it on your mobile device

Saskatchewan: Proof of vaccination

go to Yukon's website
apply online or by phone for your COVID-19 vaccine credential

Yukon: Proof of vaccination

Members of the Canadian Armed Forces

Contact your nearest Canadian Armed Forces Health Services Centre for more information on the Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination.

About Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination

The Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination is a secure and reliable way to show proof of your COVID-19 vaccination history when you travel outside of Canada. It's meant to simplify and help with border processing abroad.

This proof:

was developed by provinces and territories with support from the Government of Canada
is a recognized, trusted document that has been shared with our international partners

The Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination is available across Canada, though your province or territory may call it by a different name. For instance, it's also referred to as the 'pan-Canadian', 'standardized' or 'travel' proof of vaccination.

Some provinces may still issue a separate provincial COVID-19 proof of vaccination with a QR (quick response) code in addition to the Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination. However, you should only use the Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination when you travel internationally.

It's recommended to download a recent version of your COVID-19 proof of vaccination prior to your departure outside of Canada. Once you get your Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination, you can access it:

as a digital file on a mobile device, computer or mobile wallet
on paper by printing the PDF file with the QR code

If you were vaccinated outside of your province or territory, you may register your vaccination records with your home province or territory. Check with your province or territory to see what steps to take before trying to access your proof.

Protecting your privacy

The Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination shows only a record of your vaccination status. It doesn't expose any of your other health data. The management of your health data is the responsibility of your province, territory or Indigenous organization.

The only medical information contained in this document is related to your COVID-19 vaccination history. It doesn't contain your health card number, so it can't be used:

to access other health information
for other health services

If you travel, you may need to present your:

COVID-19 proof of vaccination and
another form of identification (ID), like your passport or status card

Your name and date of birth may be checked against your other ID, such as your passport or status card.

Your proof of vaccination and your passport or status card are separate documents and aren't digitally connected.

Outside of Canada, you may need a proof of vaccination to enter another country, board a plane or train, or participate in some activities. Before you travel to another country, be sure to check their vaccine requirements and restrictions.

However, your proof does not guarantee entry to another country. The destination country decides whether or not to accept your proof of vaccination. Other countries set their own requirements for entry at their borders.

If you do not meet the country's vaccination requirements, you may:

be denied entry
need to quarantine
need to take COVID-19 tests
need to meet other requirements when you arrive

The Government of Canada doesn't provide assistance to change travel plans that would be affected by public health measures associated with COVID-19. Such changes would be at your own expense.

Learn more about:

Travel advice and advisories by destination
Health and safety outside Canada

As of October 1, 2022, proof of vaccination is no longer required to enter Canada, or board a plane or train in Canada. This applies to travel within Canada and flights or trains leaving Canada.

If you're outside of Canada and are having difficulty using your proof of vaccination, you can visit your province or territory's website.

Download an updated version of your COVID-19 proof of vaccination

If that doesn't solve your issue, you can contact the Public Health Agency of Canada for information using the options below:

toll-free number: 1-833-784-4397 (North American Access)
calling from abroad: 1-613-957-0653 (collect calls are accepted)
teletypewriter (TTY): 1-800-465-7735 (North American Access)

The hours of operation for these numbers are 8 am to 8 pm ET , Monday to Friday. Lines are closed on statutory holidays.

Call centre agents won't be able to access your proof of vaccination.

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Proof of vaccinations

Types of proof.

There are 3 types of proof of vaccination you can get for you or your child:

Complete immunisation history statement
COVID-19 and influenza (flu) immunisation history statement
International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate. \r\n

Using your proof

You can use the history statements to:

check all the vaccinations you’ve had
check if any vaccinations are overdue or are due soon
prove your vaccinations are up to date
prove you’ve had COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations.

How to get proof

If you’re 14 or older, you can get proof of your vaccinations through myGov:

If you’re enrolled in Medicare, use your Medicare online account.
If you aren’t eligible for Medicare, use the Individual Healthcare Identifier service.

If you can’t get proof online, you can get it printed for you or posted to you.

Learn more about how to get proof of vaccinations .

Get consent from children 14 or older

If your child is 14 or older, you’ll need their consent to view their immunisation history. Find out more about getting an immunisation history for  children who are 14 or older  on the Services Australia website.

Help to get proof

If you need help to get proof of your vaccinations, find out more about  how to get immunisation history statements  on the Services Australia website.

If you’re overseas and need help to get proof of your vaccinations, call the Medicare international number  on the Services Australia website.

International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate.
If you aren’t eligible for Medicare, use the Individual Healthcare Identifier service.

If you need help to get proof of your vaccinations, find out more about how to get immunisation history statements on the Services Australia website.

If you’re overseas and need help to get proof of your vaccinations, call the Medicare international number on the Services Australia website.

Help in your language

Call the Australian Immunisation Register on  1800 653 809 and ask to speak with someone in your language.

The Services Australia website also has  information in your language about Medicare .

Call the Australian Immunisation Register on 1800 653 809 and ask to speak with someone in your language.

The Services Australia website also has information in your language about Medicare .

Thank you for your feedback

COVID-19 travel advice

A coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine can prevent you from getting COVID-19 or from becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19. But even if you're vaccinated, it's still a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and others while traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you've had all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters, you're less likely to become seriously ill or spread COVID-19. You can then travel more safely within the U.S. and internationally. But international travel can still increase your risk of getting new COVID-19 variants.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you should avoid travel until you've had all recommended COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses.

Before you travel

As you think about making travel plans, consider these questions:

Have you been vaccinated against COVID-19? If you haven't, get vaccinated. If the vaccine requires two doses, wait two weeks after getting your second vaccine dose to travel. If the vaccine requires one dose, wait two weeks after getting the vaccine to travel. It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination.
Have you had any booster doses? Having all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters, increases your protection from serious illness.
Are you at increased risk for severe illness? Anyone can get COVID-19. But older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
Do you live with someone who's at increased risk for severe illness? If you get infected while traveling, you can spread the COVID-19 virus to the people you live with when you return, even if you don't have symptoms.
Does your home or destination have requirements or restrictions for travelers? Even if you've had all recommended vaccine doses, you must follow local, state and federal testing and travel rules.

Check local requirements, restrictions and situations

Some state, local and territorial governments have requirements, such as requiring people to wear masks, get tested, be vaccinated or stay isolated for a period of time after arrival. Before you go, check for requirements at your destination and anywhere you might stop along the way.

Keep in mind these can change often and quickly depending on local conditions. It's also important to understand that the COVID-19 situation, such as the level of spread and presence of variants, varies in each country. Check back for updates as your trip gets closer.

Travel and testing

For vaccinated people.

If you have been fully vaccinated, the CDC states that you don't need to get tested before or after your trip within the U.S. or stay home (quarantine) after you return.

If you're planning to travel internationally outside the U.S., the CDC states you don't need to get tested before your trip unless it's required at your destination. Before arriving to the U.S., you need a negative test within the last day before your arrival or a record of recovery from COVID-19 in the last three months.

After you arrive in the U.S., the CDC recommends getting tested with a viral test 3 to 5 days after your trip. If you're traveling to the U.S. and you aren't a citizen, you need to be fully vaccinated and have proof of vaccination.

You don't need to quarantine when you arrive in the U.S. But check for any symptoms. Stay at home if you develop symptoms.

For unvaccinated people

Testing before and after travel can lower the risk of spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. If you haven't been vaccinated, the CDC recommends getting a viral test within three days before your trip. Delay travel if you're waiting for test results. Keep a copy of your results with you when you travel.

Repeat the test 3 to 5 days after your trip. Stay home for five days after travel.

If at any point you test positive for the virus that causes COVID-19, stay home. Stay at home and away from others if you develop symptoms. Follow public health recommendations.

Stay safe when you travel

In the U.S., you must wear a face mask on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation. The mask must fit snugly and cover both your mouth and nose.

Follow these steps to protect yourself and others when you travel:

Get vaccinated.
Keep distance between yourself and others (within about 6 feet, or 2 meters) when you're in indoor public spaces if you're not fully vaccinated. This is especially important if you have a higher risk of serious illness.
Avoid contact with anyone who is sick or has symptoms.
Avoid crowds and indoor places that have poor air flow (ventilation).
Don't touch frequently touched surfaces, such as handrails, elevator buttons and kiosks. If you must touch these surfaces, use hand sanitizer or wash your hands afterward.
Wear a face mask in indoor public spaces. The CDC recommends wearing the most protective mask possible that you'll wear regularly and that fits. If you are in an area with a high number of new COVID-19 cases, wear a mask in indoor public places and outdoors in crowded areas or when you're in close contact with people who aren't vaccinated.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Cover coughs and sneezes.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
If soap and water aren't available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub your hands together until they feel dry.
Don't eat or drink on public transportation. That way you can keep your mask on the whole time.

Because of the high air flow and air filter efficiency on airplanes, most viruses such as the COVID-19 virus don't spread easily on flights. Wearing masks on planes has likely helped lower the risk of getting the COVID-19 virus on flights too.

However, air travel involves spending time in security lines and airport terminals, which can bring you in close contact with other people. Getting vaccinated and wearing a mask when traveling can help protect you from COVID-19 while traveling.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has increased cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and equipment, including bins, at screening checkpoints. TSA has also made changes to the screening process:

Travelers must wear masks during screening. However, TSA employees may ask travelers to adjust masks for identification purposes.
Travelers should keep a distance of 6 feet apart from other travelers when possible.
Instead of handing boarding passes to TSA officers, travelers should place passes (paper or electronic) directly on the scanner and then hold them up for inspection.
Each traveler may have one container of hand sanitizer up to 12 ounces (about 350 milliliters) in a carry-on bag. These containers will need to be taken out for screening.
Personal items such as keys, wallets and phones should be placed in carry-on bags instead of bins. This reduces the handling of these items during screening.
Food items should be carried in a plastic bag and placed in a bin for screening. Separating food from carry-on bags lessens the likelihood that screeners will need to open bags for inspection.

Be sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds directly before and after going through screening.

Public transportation

If you travel by bus or train and you aren't vaccinated, be aware that sitting or standing within 6 feet (2 meters) of others for a long period can put you at higher risk of getting or spreading COVID-19. Follow the precautions described above for protecting yourself during travel.

Even if you fly, you may need transportation once you arrive at your destination. You can search car rental options and their cleaning policies on the internet. If you plan to stay at a hotel, check into shuttle service availability.

If you'll be using public transportation and you aren't vaccinated, continue physical distancing and wearing a mask after reaching your destination.

Hotels and other lodging

The hotel industry knows that travelers are concerned about COVID-19 and safety. Check any major hotel's website for information about how it's protecting guests and staff. Some best practices include:

Enhanced cleaning procedures
Physical distancing recommendations indoors for people who aren't vaccinated
Mask-wearing and regular hand-washing by staff
Mask-wearing indoors for guests in public places in areas that have high cases of COVID-19
Vaccine recommendations for staff
Isolation and testing guidelines for staff who've been exposed to COVID-19
Contactless payment
Set of rules in case a guest becomes ill, such as closing the room for cleaning and disinfecting
Indoor air quality measures, such as regular system and air filter maintenance, and suggestions to add air cleaners that can filter viruses and bacteria from the air

Vacation rentals, too, are enhancing their cleaning procedures. They're committed to following public health guidelines, such as using masks and gloves when cleaning, and building in a waiting period between guests.

Make a packing list

When it's time to pack for your trip, grab any medications you may need on your trip and these essential safe-travel supplies:

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol)
Disinfectant wipes (at least 70% alcohol)
Thermometer

Considerations for people at increased risk

Anyone can get very ill from the virus that causes COVID-19. But older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness. This may include people with cancer, serious heart problems and a weakened immune system. Getting the recommended COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses can help lower your risk of being severely ill from COVID-19.

Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. If you're unvaccinated, staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. If you must travel and aren't vaccinated, talk with your health care provider and ask about any additional precautions you may need to take.

Remember safety first

Even the most detailed and organized plans may need to be set aside when someone gets ill. Stay home if you or any of your travel companions:

Have signs or symptoms, are sick or think you have COVID-19
Are waiting for results of a COVID-19 test
Have been diagnosed with COVID-19
Have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 in the past five days and you're not up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines

If you've had close contact with someone with COVID-19, get tested after at least five days. Wait to travel until you have a negative test. Wear a mask if you travel up to 10 days after you've had close contact with someone with COVID-19.

Book, cancel or change a COVID-19 vaccination appointment

Use this service to:

check if you need an appointment
book an appointment
check your existing appointment details
cancel your appointment

You can use this service if you are registered with a GP surgery in England. Find out how to register with a GP surgery if you're not registered.

Booking for 2 people

You can book an appointment for up to 2 people who are both 18 years old or over.

How it works

The service will check if you need a vaccination before you book. To change or cancel your appointment, you’ll need the booking reference number we sent you.

Find a walk in centre

You can find a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site to get a vaccination without an appointment. You do not need to be registered with a GP.

Book over the phone

You can call 119 free of charge to book over the phone if you cannot book online. You can speak to a translator if you need to.

If you have difficulties communicating or hearing

You can use textphone 18001 or the NHS 119 British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter service if you have difficulties communicating or hearing, or if you are a BSL user.

More information

How to get a COVID-19 Vaccination

Page last reviewed: 30 May 2024 Next review due: 8 February 2027

Search Smartraveller

Infectious diseases.

This page has information about the risk of infectious diseases for Australians overseas.

This page only gives general advice. Always talk to your healthcare providers for advice specific to you and your situation.

Read this page to learn about:

infectious disease risks overseas
vaccine-preventable diseases
insect-borne diseases
water or food-borne diseases
contact, droplet or airborne diseases
blood-borne diseases
sexually transmissible infections (STIs)
diseases spread by animals
consular services and infectious diseases

Infectious disease risks overseas

Infectious diseases exist everywhere. But you have a higher risk of getting an infectious disease in some destinations. This can be due to:

water and sanitation issues
insects that carry diseases
low vaccination rates.

Research the risks before you go. Then you can take preventive measures to reduce them.

Read our travel advice for your destination . See if there are any health risks or suggested vaccines listed.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Tell them where you're going and ask their advice on prevention.

Vaccine-preventable diseases

Vaccination can prevent some diseases.

Get your travel vaccinations. Particularly if there's a travel warning for a vaccine-preventable disease where you're going. Ensuring you're vaccinated can protect you and those around you.

Talk to your doctor. Ask what travel vaccines they recommend. And find out if your standard vaccinations need boosting.

Get the vaccinations you need well before you go. Some take 6-8 weeks to work or need several doses.

Visit the Vaccine Hub to explore suggested vaccines for where you're going . Common travel vaccines include:

chickenpox (varicella)
hepatitis A and hepatitis B
influenza (flu)
Japanese encephalitis
meningococcal
tuberculosis (TB)
yellow fever .

This list doesn't include everything. You may need to vaccinate against other diseases depending on your health and where you're going. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Learn more about travel vaccinations .

Proof of vaccination

You may need proof of certain vaccinations when you're travelling.

Rules will vary between each country. Contact your destination's embassy or consulate in Australia for information.

Yellow fever

Some countries need you to show an international yellow fever vaccination certificate if you:

arrive from a yellow fever-infected area
transit through an infected area before arriving
have been in an infected area within a number of days before arriving.

Your airline can stop you from boarding if you don't have one.

It's important to get your yellow fever vaccination at an approved clinic . You need it at least 10 days before you travel. The clinic will give you your certificate.

Read more about international yellow fever vaccination certificates .

Some countries may need you to show a COVID-19 vaccination certificate on entry or to access some services.

You can get your certificate through myGov or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app . If you can't use these options

visit a Services Australia services centre
contact the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) at 1800 653 809 (in Australia) or +61 2 8633 3284 (from overseas).

Learn more about international COVID-19 vaccination certificates .

Insect-borne diseases

Insects can carry disease and spread it between people. They can also spread disease between animals and people.

You're more likely to get an insect-borne disease in tropical climates. This includes parts of

Central America
the Pacific.

You're also at risk in parts of Europe and the United States. Risks may differ depending on what you plan to do.

Some common insect-borne diseases are:

chikungunya
Lyme disease
yellow fever
Zika virus .

If you're pregnant or planning to get pregnant, your unborn child may face more risks from Zika virus. As a precaution, the Department of Health advises you to consider delaying travel to countries with Zika.

Reducing your risk of insect-borne diseases

You can get vaccinated against some insect-borne illnesses. For others, such as malaria, there's oral medicine you can take. Discuss options with your doctor or pharmacist.

Take steps to avoid insect bites.

Cover exposed skin with light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Use insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. If you use both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply the sunscreen first and then the repellent.
Treat your clothing and gear with insecticides containing permethrin.
Sleep in screened or air-conditioned rooms. Use bed nets if you can't keep mosquitoes from coming inside the room.

After walking through high grass or brush in tick-prone areas:

brush off your clothes before getting in a car or going inside
check yourself and others for ticks
tumble dry your clothes hot for 20 minutes to kill ticks that may have hitched a ride.

Water- or food-borne diseases

Water- or food-borne diseases are common in many countries. You can catch them from:

drinking or using tainted water
drinking any drink with ice cubes made with tap water
eating food washed with tap water
brushing your teeth or washing your face with tap water
eating tainted food, including meals prepared by people following poor hygiene practices
taking part in activities in tainted water, such as swimming or water sports.

Some water- and food-borne diseases include:

infections causing gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhoea )
campylobacter
hepatitis A
leptospirosis
polio (poliomyelitis)
salmonella (including typhoid and paratyphoid )
schistosomiasis

Cholera is less common, but it's very contagious and deadly.

Reduce your risk from water- or food-borne diseases

There are vaccines for some water and food-borne infectious diseases, including hepatitis A, typhoid and cholera.

You can do a lot to reduce your risk of infection where water and food-borne diseases are common.

Wash your hands often and use hand sanitiser before you eat.
Drink bottled water from a sealed bottle.
Use water-sterilising tablets or filtration bottles to make tap water safe.
Wash fresh produce thoroughly using bottled or sterilised water.

Try to avoid:

drinking tap water or using it to clean your teeth
drinks with ice cubes. Some restaurants may use water straight from the tap
uncooked and undercooked food or food that has been left sitting for a while
fresh salads and raw vegetables
contact with water or soil that may be contaminated with sewerage
in some places, swimming or wading in any fresh water.

For more information, see the Better Health Channel's advice on food safety while travelling .

Contact, droplet and airborne diseases

Some diseases can spread:

through close contact with a person who is coughing, sneezing, or unwell
through something an infected person touched after coughing, sneezing or blowing their nose.

These are called diseases spread by contact, droplets or through the air.

These include:

chickenpox (varicella)
coughs and colds
influenza (flu)
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

Reducing your risk of contact, droplet and airborne diseases

Protect yourself from contact, droplet and airborne diseases.

Stay up to date with your vaccinations for measles, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, flu, COVID-19, and other vaccines recommended by your doctor.
Wash your hands often or use hand sanitiser if soap and water aren't available.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick or showing early symptoms.
Avoid close contact with wild or domestic animals.

Blood-borne diseases

Some infectious diseases can be spread by blood. This can be:

when an infected person's blood comes into direct contact with another person's blood, mouth or eyes
when blood is on an object such as a needle or razor blade
through bodily fluids (see also sexually transmissible infections )

Common blood-borne diseases overseas are:

hepatitis B
hepatitis C

Reduce your risk of blood-borne diseases

You can get vaccinated against some blood-borne diseases.

You can also reduce your risk of infection by being careful and making smart choices.

Avoid contact with any objects that could be tainted with blood or body fluids.
Never share needles, syringes, or other injecting tools.
Choose tattoo, piercing and medical services that carefully sterilise their tools and surfaces. If you're not sure, ask for proof before they start.
Practise safer sex.
Cover wounds and cuts with a waterproof dressing.
Don't share toothbrushes, razors and other personal items that may be tainted with blood.
Use gloves and other relevant protection when giving first aid.

These diseases may not have symptoms in the early stages. If you think you've been exposed, seek medical advice early. There may be preventive treatment.

Sexually transmissible infections (STIs)

STIs are infections or diseases passed on during unprotected sex with an infected partner, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Some STIs can spread through skin-to-skin contact with a person's infected genitals or mouth.

STIs include:

genital herpes
gonorrhoea
human papillomavirus (HPV)

Other diseases can spread through sexual contact but are not called an STI. For example, water-borne diseases shigellosis and hepatitis A can also spread through sexual activity, including oral and anal sex.

Reducing your risk of STIs

Vaccines can prevent some STIs. But you must also take preventive measures to reduce your risk of infection.

Reduce your risk of infection by taking and using your own condoms from a brand you trust.

STIs may not have symptoms. If you think you've been exposed, seek medical advice.

If you're a victim of assault , including sexual assault , get medical care immediately to reduce the risk of infection.

For more information, see the Department of Health's information on STIs and HIV / AIDS .

Diseases spread by animals

Some animals can spread disease through close contact, scratches or bites. These diseases include:

influenza A subtypes , including avian and swine influenza
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

Reduce your risk of infection.

Get vaccinated for rabies and influenza before you go, if recommended.
Avoid contact with sick animals.
Wash your hands well after contact with animals.
Don't eat raw or undercooked meat or animal products.

If you have a pre-existing illness, you may need to avoid all contact with some animals. Seek medical advice.

If you're bitten, scratched or licked on an open wound by an animal:

use first aid
wash the wound out well with soap and water for at least 10 minutes
use antiseptic solution
get urgent medical advice about preventing rabies, tetanus, and bacterial infection.

Consular services and infectious diseases

You're responsible for protecting yourself against infectious diseases.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas .

What we can do

We can update our travel advice if we learn of a disease outbreak.
We can give you a list of local English-speaking doctors and health services.
We can help you get in contact with family and friends in Australia.
We can provide emergency support if we declare a disease outbreak a crisis.

What we can't do

We can't tell you every infectious disease in your destination.
We can't give you medical advice.
We can't tell you all the vaccines you may need.
We can't tell you what to do or take to protect your health in your destination.
We can't guarantee your health in any destination.
We can't pay your medical costs if you get sick overseas.
Read about travelling with medication and medical equipment .
See our advice on travelling while pregnant .
Learn about medical tourism .
See our health advice for everyone .
Read advice about travelling with children .
See our advice on taking care of your mental health .
See our advice for travellers with a disability .
Read about health risks in all your destinations .
Understand how and when consular services can help Australians overseas.
Learn about infectious diseases and travel vaccinations (Department of Health).
See a range of advice on international travel and health (World Health Organization).
Read advice on food safety while travelling (Victorian Department of Health and Human Services).
Learn about immunising your child (Department of Health).
See information about insect-borne diseases (World Health Organisation).

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Dominican Republic

Travel Advisory June 6, 2023

Dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Country Summary: Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Dominican Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

Be aware of your surroundings.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
Follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passports must be valid for the period of stay in the Dominican Republic.

1 page required for entry stamp

Not required for visits shorter than 30 days

None required if arriving from the United States

$10,000 and over or its equivalent must be declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy santo domingo.

Av. República de Colombia #57 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Telephone: +(809) 567-7775 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email: [email protected] Hours: Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

Consular Agencies

U.S. Consular Agent - Puerto Plata Plaza el Doral, carretera Luperón KM 3 1/2 Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Telephone: +(809) 586-4204, +(809) 586-8023 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email: [email protected] Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

U.S. Consular Agent - Bavaro/Punta Cana Palma Real Shopping Center Business Center 2nd Floor Bavaro, La Altagracia, Dominican Republic Telephone: (809) 552-8990 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email: [email protected] Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visas are not required for visits shorter than 30 days. Visit the Embassy of the Dominican Republic website for current visa information.

All visitors to the Dominican Republic are charged a $10 tourist card fee that is incorporated into airline charges. Cruise passengers must obtain a tourist card if they are disembarking for longer than 24 hours. Once used, the card allows for stays up to 30 days but can be extended at the General Directorate of Migration in Santo Domingo.

Contact the Migration Department in Santo Domingo for visa extension requests. Failure to request an extension will result in a fine at the airport upon departure. The fines range from approximately $55 USD for one month to as high as $1,555 USD for overstays of 10 years or more.

All passengers are required to fill out an E-Ticket or paper form when entering or exiting the Dominican Republic. If using E-Ticket, a new form is required for each entry and exit and the code generated upon form completion can be presented at the airport on a digital device.

Visitors must have a ticket entering and leaving the country, the financial means to pay for their stay, and an address in the Dominican Republic where they will be staying.

Exit Requirements for Children: Minors (children under 18) who are citizens (including dual citizens) or legal residents of the Dominican Republic, if not accompanied by both parents or legal guardian(s), are required to present official proof of parental consent to travel. Please see the Dominican Migration Department's website for detailed instructions on the required documents.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic has restrictions on granting residency to people with HIV/AIDS. Please verify information with the Dominican Republic’s Migration Department before you travel.

Yellow Fever Vaccine: Proof of vaccination against yellow fever is required for travelers entering the Dominican Republic from Brazil. Similar requirements may apply to those traveling from other countries with yellow fever risk .

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime: Crime is a threat throughout the Dominican Republic. Tourist destinations are generally more policed than metropolitan areas.

If robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
Be wary of strangers.
Travel with a partner or group if possible.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Dating App Robberies: Several U.S. citizen travelers in the Dominican Republic have reported that they were robbed by people they met through popular online dating applications. If meeting with strangers, you should strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations where crimes are most likely to occur.

Demonstrations: Avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if you are in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local tourist police (POLITUR) at 809-222-2026 or 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at 809-567-7775. 911 is operational throughout the country apart from some areas located near the Haitian border. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Help you find appropriate medical care.
Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
Provide a list of local attorneys.
Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact POLITUR (809-222-2026), the National Police ( 809-682-2151), and the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Sexual Assault: Rape and sexual assault has been reported throughout the Dominican Republic, including at major resorts and hotels.

Notes for your safety:

U.S. citizens have been targeted with date rape drugs.
Sexual assault victims in the Dominican Republic should not expect the totality of assistance offered in the United States. Rape kits are often not available until the following morning and must be administered by Dominican authorities.
Victims often have to request medication to avoid transmission of STDs and reduce the chances of pregnancy.
Prosecution of a rape case moves forward very slowly. Dominican law may require the victim to return to the Dominican Republic at some stages of the judicial process.
Security outside of the resort area, including beach areas, is unpredictable, especially at night.

Best Practices:

Contact the police/hotel management if resort staff demonstrate unwanted attention.
Victims of sexual/other assault should contact the police and the Embassy. Insist that hotel management take immediate action by contacting the police.
In a resort, avoid secluded places. Always be accompanied by someone you know, even going to the restroom.
Do not consume alcoholic beverages alone or with new acquaintances. Do not leave drinks unattended. Know your limits and help your friends/travelling companions to remain safe.
Shout for help immediately if threatened or made uncomfortable.
Report suspicious activity, including excessive friendliness by hotel employees, to hotel management, the U.S. Embassy, and local police.
Do not swim alone due to life-threatening undertows.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities may not commonly occur in all parts of the country. Hazardous areas and activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities or major tourist zones. First responders may be unable to access areas outside of major cities or major tourist zones. The ability to provide urgent medical treatment may be limited. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in the Dominican Republic are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage and general information on legal assistance for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, their possession they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the Dominican Republic.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in the Dominican Republic prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, but the law is not enforced consistently. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Accessible facilities, information, communication/access to services and ease of movement is limited in most parts of the country. Large resorts and Santo Domingo may have some generally accessible infrastructure, but travelers should not expect the level available in the United States.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Disaster Preparedness: Register with the Embassy on or before your arrival through our travel registration website . In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, this will keep you informed. Additional information on natural disasters and disaster preparedness can be found on our website. Real Estate: Property rights are irregularly enforced, and investors often encounter problems in receiving clear title to land. Consult a reputable attorney before signing documents or closing on any real estate transactions. Real estate investments by U.S. citizens have been subject to legal and physical takeover attempts. Absentee landlords and absentee owners of undeveloped land are particularly vulnerable. Consider purchasing title insurance. Scams: Scammers often target elderly people by pretending to be a law enforcement official, an attorney, or a U.S. Embassy official, claiming that a loved one has been arrested overseas. The caller instructs the victim to wire money. Scammers sometimes impersonate family members, such as a scared grandchild. Contact the U.S. Embassy before wiring money to the Dominican Republic. When in doubt, try to contact your loved one directly.

For emergency services in the Dominican Republic, dial 911 or 809-202-2026 .

Ambulance services:

The training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
Ambulances are not present or reliable in most areas of the country. They are more reliable and available in Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, and Puerto Plata.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Ministry for Public Health to ensure the medication is legal in the Dominican Republic.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
Hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
Be aware that some hotels, resorts, etc. have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which have costs associated and may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
Medical staff may speak little or no English.
Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.

If you are considering travel to the Dominican Republic for cosmetic surgery, be mindful of the following:

Have a medical evaluation from a U.S. doctor to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.
Before travel, carefully research the doctor (e.g. qualifications, experience performing the surgery, complication rate) and credentials of the recovery facility you plan to use.
Share all health information (e.g. medical conditions, medications, allergies) with your doctor before your surgery.
Obtain international travel insurance that covers medical evacuation back to the United States and repatriation of remains. For more information, see: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance .
See a travel medicine professional in the United States at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to discuss healthy travel and to learn about specific risks related to your surgery and travel. For more information on the risks of medical tourism, see: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/medical-tourism .
Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in the Dominican Republic.

Tap Water: Tap water is unsafe to drink. Bottled water and beverages are considered safe. Please note that many restaurants use tap water for ice.

Adventure Travel

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

Tuberculosis
Chikungunya

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in the Dominican Republic .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving conditions vary across the country. Drive defensively and with extreme caution.

Consider hiring a professional driver instead of driving yourself. You can hire licensed drivers who are familiar with local roads through local car rental agencies. In case of accidents, normally only the driver will be taken into custody. In 2019 six people died per day due to traffic accidents in the Dominican Republic.

Frequent hazards include:

other drivers not using headlights and/or taillights after dark
animals in the road
missing manhole covers and large potholes
uneven road surfaces
scooters and motorcycles driving erratically and splitting lanes
driving on sidewalks or against traffic
intersections without stop signs
unregulated and congested traffic patterns
speeding or the running of stoplights
heavy urban traffic

Traffic Laws: Traffic laws are not enforced consistently. After an accident causing serious injury or death, authorities will often take the driver into custody, even if the driver is insured and appears to have not been at fault. Detentions frequently last until a judicial decision has been reached or until a waiver has been signed by the injured party.

Seat belts, and helmets for motorcyclists, are required by law. Violators may be fined. There are no child car seat laws. Police stop drivers using cell phones without a hands-free device.

Public Transportation: Public transportation includes a metro and public bus system as well as shared bus or van taxis known as “guaguas” (converted vans or microbuses, often without doors). Guaguas run regular routes within urban areas and between towns in the countryside. Public buses and guaguas operating in the capital do not meet U.S. safety standards. Avoid unregulated taxis, which also often lack basic safety features. Use a reputable taxi service, either one recommended by your hotel or a well-known, vetted company. Rideshare services such as Uber are available in many parts of the country. Private bus lines travel between large cities and to popular tourist destinations.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism and INTRANT (Instituto Nacional de Transito y Transporte Terrestre) the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Dominican Republic’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s website. FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of the Dominican Republic. Until those concerns can be addressed, the Coast Guard advises that Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of the Dominican Republic should exercise caution.

Mariners planning travel to the Dominican Republic should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Dominican Republic . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Negros Occidental catches 2 travelers with fake COVID-19 vax cards

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

Negros Occidental catches 2 travelers with fake COVID-19 vax cards

The baggage carousel for inbound travelers at the Bacolod-Silay airport. (Photo from the Bacolod-Silay Airport Facebook page)

Bacolod-Silay Airport Facebook page

Eagle-eyed personnel of the provincial government of Negros Occidental intercepted two travelers with fake vaccination cards when they applied for S-PaSS (Safe, Swift and Smart Passage) on Tuesday, November 23.

One of them, who was bound for Bacolod, the capital city of the province, was denied entry when she submitted a fake vaccination card, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II told Rappler.

The copy of the lady passenger’s vaccination certificate could not be found on their database, he said.

When they checked her vaccination card, “at face value, it was obviously fake,” he added.

Diaz said that both cards looked “clean” and the text was computerized, with the same font style. He added that the text in most of vaccination cards is handwritten.

When they further checked on the locality where the passenger supposedly got her COVID-19 shots, she had no record, Diaz added.

The other passenger, a resident of Sagay City, was able to enter the province but was immediately intercepted at the airport.

The passenger was then placed in quarantine for 14 days, Diaz said.

The provincial government stressed that falsification of travel documents, medical certificates, COVID-19 test results, and vaccination cards is punishable with imprisonment and fines under the Revised Penal Codes as well as the Republic Act 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Concern Act.

Diaz said the provincial government is still studying the possibility of pursuing legal action against the two passengers. He added that the province will continue to be vigilant.

Intercepting inbound travelers with fake documents is not new for the province.

Politics fuels S-Pass controversy in Bacolod, Negros Occidental

The provincial government has previously caught passengers with fake negative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction test results upon entry to the province.

However, the provincial government has not pursued any of these cases as the culprits asked for forgiveness, and “the governor has shown compassion,” Diaz had earlier said.

Firm on S-PaSS requirement

Meanwhile, Diaz said that the province will continue to require inbound passengers to submit the S-PaSS upon entry at the airport, which is contrary to the policy of Bacolod.

Bacolod, a highly-urbanized city, is not under the jurisdiction of the provincial government.

Contradictory travel policies confuse Bacolod, Negros Occidental residents

However, the airport, which is located at Silay City, north of Bacolod, is under the province.

The dispute in protocols has left passengers confused.

Diaz said that Bacolod should respect the protocols of the local government units where its passengers pass through.

He added that the mayor’s executive order doesn’t cover the airport, as it is a territorial jurisdiction of the province.

He also claimed that Bacolod was not even part of the negotiation of the province with the airlines.

Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia has already written Department of Interior and Local Government Western Visayas director Juan Jovian Ingeniero to help resolve the issue.

He pointed out that Bacolod, as a highly-urbanized city, does not belong under the political jurisdiction of the provincial government.

Also on Thursday, Leonardia said he has furnished Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and Secretary Karlo Nograles, the two co-chair of national COVID-19 Interagency Task Force; DILC Secretary Eduardo Año and his Undersecretary Epimaco Densing.

He also stressed that the Bacolod-Silay Airport, which Diaz claims to be under the provincial government, is actually regulated by the national government.

“As such, the PNO cannot claim to also impose its own EO against those travelers inbound for Bacolod City,” Leonardia’s letter said. – Rappler.com

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel.

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

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The International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate is a free and secure means of proving your COVID-19 immunisation history when you travel across borders overseas. The easiest way to get a certificate is by using your Medicare account through myGov, or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app . Go to Services Australia for further details.
COVID-19 proof of vaccination in Canada
The Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination is a secure and reliable way to show proof of your COVID-19 vaccination history when you travel outside of Canada. It's meant to simplify and help with border processing abroad. This proof: was developed by provinces and territories with support from the Government of Canada.
Proof of vaccinations
There are 3 types of proof of vaccination you can get for you or your child: Complete immunisation history statement; COVID-19 and influenza (flu) immunisation history statement; International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate. Using your proof. You can use the history statements to: check all the vaccinations you've had
PDF How to download your COVID travel pass in 4 easy steps!
Demonstrating COVID-19 vaccination status: How to download your COVID travel pass in 4 easy steps! Step 1: Ensure you have downloaded NHS App on your phone. Open up the NHS App on your smart phone Step 2: Click on NHS COVID pass, and then click on Travel. This will ensure that your COVID pass includes the dates of your vaccinations. Step 3:
Vaccine passports during the COVID-19 pandemic
A vaccine passport or proof of vaccination is an immunity passport employed as a credential [1] in countries and jurisdictions as part of efforts to control the COVID-19 pandemic via vaccination. A vaccine passport is typically issued by a government or health authority, and usually consists of a digital or printed record.
COVID-19 travel advice
A coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine can prevent you from getting COVID-19 or from becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19. But even if you're vaccinated, it's still a good idea to take ...
Book, cancel or change a COVID-19 vaccination appointment
The service will check if you need a vaccination before you book. To change or cancel your appointment, you'll need the booking reference number we sent you. Book a vaccination appointment View, cancel or change an existing appointment Find a walk in centre. You can find a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site to get a vaccination without an ...
Infectious diseases
The clinic will give you your certificate. Read more about international yellow fever vaccination certificates. COVID-19. Some countries may need you to show a COVID-19 vaccination certificate on entry or to access some services. You can get your certificate through myGov or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app. If you can't use these options
Dominican Republic International Travel Information
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.
Negros Occidental catches 2 travelers with fake COVID-19 vax ...
The provincial government stressed that falsification of travel documents, medical certificates, COVID-19 test results, and vaccination cards is punishable with imprisonment and fines under the ...
International travel documents for children
Children traveling to the U.S. All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents: If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they ...