The Singapore Ministry of Health announced on July 1 that yellow fever vaccination certificates will be mandatory for all arrivals from 27 African nations beginning August 20. The list includes Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia and South Africa. The requirement covers both transit passengers and those ending their journey in Singapore.
Certificates must be issued by an approved vaccination centre at least 10 days before arrival and remain valid for life. Travellers without valid documentation will be denied entry or quarantined for six days.
The policy follows three imported yellow fever cases detected at Changi Airport in the first half of 2026. Singapore joins Australia and New Zealand in tightening entry rules for the disease.
Airlines operating flights from Africa have begun checking vaccination status at check-in counters. The Singapore Tourism Board estimates the rule will affect 185,000 annual visitors.
What this means for you
Obtain the yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days before travel and carry the original International Certificate of Vaccination. Confirm with your airline 48 hours before departure that documentation meets Singapore requirements. Transit passengers connecting through Singapore should also carry certificates.
Check the full list of 27 countries on the Ministry of Health website. Families travelling with infants under one year should consult a travel clinic for exemptions.
The measure protects Singapore’s population while maintaining strong connectivity with African destinations through Changi Airport.