Indiaβs health ministry updated entry rules on 18 June 2026 requiring yellow fever vaccination certificates from 12 African nations. Affected countries include Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya. The requirement applies to all arrivals including those in transit and takes effect 1 July.
Certificates must follow WHO standards and be dated at least 10 days prior to arrival. Passengers without valid documentation face quarantine or denial of entry. Airlines have been instructed to verify certificates at check-in counters.
India previously allowed exemptions for short transit stops but recorded imported cases in 2025. The policy aligns with International Health Regulations and mirrors requirements already enforced by many Asian nations. Vaccination clinics across Africa have increased capacity ahead of the deadline.
What this means for you
Obtain the yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days before departure if travelling from listed countries. Carry the original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis. Confirm requirements with your airline 48 hours before flight.
Check if your itinerary involves connections through affected nations even for brief layovers. Keep digital scans of certificates on your phone alongside paper copies.
Additional countries may be added to the list if outbreak patterns change. Review official Indian embassy guidance before finalising African itineraries.