Health Canada announced on June 23 that travelers arriving from Brazil must present an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis for yellow fever starting August 1. The requirement covers all passengers including those in transit and applies to both direct and indirect arrivals. Certificates must show vaccination at least 10 days before entry.
The change follows 47 confirmed yellow fever cases in Brazil's Amazonas and Para states during the first five months of 2026. Canadian health authorities recorded two imported cases last year prompting the stricter stance. Approved vaccines include Stamaril and YF-VAX with lifelong validity for most recipients.
Brazilian authorities have expanded vaccination campaigns to 12 additional municipalities but coverage remains below 60 percent in remote areas. Canada joins the United States and several European nations that already enforce similar requirements for Brazilian arrivals.
Airlines will check certificates at check-in and may deny boarding without valid documentation. Exemptions are available only for medical reasons with a signed letter from a Canadian physician.
What this means for you
Schedule a yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before travel through a designated travel clinic and request the official certificate. Keep the certificate with your passport because digital copies are not accepted at Canadian borders. Confirm with your airline that the vaccine brand you receive is on the approved list.
Travelers who cannot receive the vaccine due to age or medical conditions should obtain an exemption letter and consider postponing trips to affected regions. Avoid rural areas in northern Brazil if unvaccinated even if transiting through major cities.
The requirement will be reviewed quarterly and may expand to additional South American countries depending on outbreak data.