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Yellow Card In Nigeria: Cost And How To Easily Obtain It
If you are planning to travel outside Nigeria, you will likely need a Yellow Card, also known as the Yellow Fever Vaccination Card. This document serves as proof that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever, a potentially deadly viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Many countries require it as an entry requirement to prevent the spread of the disease.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about obtaining a Yellow Card in Nigeria, including:
- What a Yellow Card is and why it is important
- The cost of obtaining a Yellow Card in Nigeria
- Requirements for getting a Yellow Card
- Step-by-step process for obtaining it easily
- How to verify if your Yellow Card is genuine
- Frequently asked questions
By the end of this post, you will have all the information you need to get your Yellow Card hassle-free.
What is a Yellow Card, and Why is it Important?
A Yellow Card is an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) issued by the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) in Nigeria. It serves as proof that the holder has received a yellow fever vaccination, which is a requirement for international travel to many countries.
The Yellow Card is essential for travelers because:
- It is required for entry into many countries – Some nations, especially in Africa, South America, and Asia, will deny entry if you do not present a valid Yellow Card.
- It helps prevent the spread of yellow fever – Since the disease is transmitted through mosquito bites, countries enforce vaccination rules to protect public health.
- It is valid for life – As of 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that a single yellow fever vaccination provides lifetime immunity, meaning you do not need to get vaccinated again.
- It is an international health document – Just like a passport, the Yellow Card is recognized globally as proof of immunization.
Cost of Obtaining a Yellow Card in Nigeria
As of 2024, the official cost of obtaining a Yellow Card in Nigeria is ₦2,000. However, you may need to pay additional charges, such as:
- Bank transaction fees (if paying online or via bank deposit)
- Service fees (some centers may charge for processing)
- It is important to avoid touts and agents who may try to charge you higher prices or issue fake Yellow Cards. Always get your Yellow Card from an officially designated center to ensure its authenticity.
Requirements for Obtaining a Yellow Card in Nigeria
- To obtain a Yellow Card in Nigeria, you need to provide the following:
- A valid means of identification (such as a passport, National ID card, driver’s license, or voter’s card)
- ₦2,000 payment receipt (paid online through the official website)
- A valid email address and phone number
- A valid passport number (for international travelers)
Once you have these ready, you can proceed to get your Yellow Card.
How to Easily Obtain a Yellow Card in Nigeria (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Getting a Yellow Card in Nigeria is straightforward if you follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Pay for the Yellow Card Online
You must make the payment online before visiting a vaccination center. Here’s how:
- Visit the official Yellow Card website: https://yellowcardnigeria.com
- Click on "Register" to create an account.
- Fill in your details, including your name, phone number, email, and passport number.
- Proceed to payment and pay ₦2,000 using a debit/credit card or Remita payment.
- Print out your payment receipt – You will need this at the vaccination center.
Step 2: Get Vaccinated at an Approved Health Center
After making your payment, you must visit an approved Yellow Fever Vaccination Center to receive your vaccine.
- Go to an accredited health center – The Federal Ministry of Health has designated centers in all 36 states and the FCT, Abuja where you can get vaccinated.
- Present your payment receipt and means of identification.
- Get vaccinated – The yellow fever vaccine is administered as a single dose.
- Wait for your Yellow Card – After receiving the vaccine, your Yellow Card will be issued to you immediately.
It is recommended to get vaccinated at least 10 days before traveling, as some countries require this waiting period before allowing entry.
Step 3: Verify Your Yellow Card Online
To confirm that your Yellow Card is genuine, you can verify it online:
- Visit the verification portal at https://yellowcardnigeria.com/
- Enter your Yellow Card number (found on the card)
- Click "Verify" to check its authenticity
A genuine Yellow Card will be displayed on the website with your details. If it does not appear, you may have received a fake card, and you should report it immediately.
Where Can You Get a Yellow Card in Nigeria?
Yellow Cards are available at designated health centers, seaports, and international airports in Nigeria. Some of the major locations include:
- Federal Medical Centres (FMCs) in each state
- State Ministries of Health
- Port Health Services offices at international airports (Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, etc.)
- Designated general hospitals and clinics
To find the closest approved center, visit the Federal Ministry of Health website or ask at your nearest government hospital.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Yellow Card?
The process is fast and can be completed within a day. If you have made your payment online and visit an accredited center, you can:
1. Get vaccinated within 10–20 minutes
2. Receive your Yellow Card immediately after vaccination
However, delays can occur if the center is crowded or if there are system issues, so it is advisable to go early.
How to Renew or Replace a Lost Yellow Card
Since Yellow Fever vaccination is now valid for life, you generally do not need to renew your Yellow Card. However, if you lose your card, follow these steps to replace it:
- Visit the Yellow Card portal (https://yellowcardnigeria.com)
- Log in and check your previous registration details
- Make a new payment of ₦2,000
- Visit an approved center with proof of previous vaccination
- Request a replacement card
Some centers may require you to take another vaccine before issuing a new card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Get a Yellow Card Without Taking the Vaccine?
No, you must take the yellow fever vaccine before receiving the Yellow Card. Fake Yellow Cards are illegal and can result in entry denial at foreign airports.
2. Is the Yellow Card the Same as a COVID-19 Vaccination Card?
No, the Yellow Card is specifically for yellow fever vaccination. It is different from the COVID-19 vaccination card.
3. How Long is the Yellow Card Valid?
The Yellow Card is valid for life after one vaccination.
4. Can I Travel Without a Yellow Card?
If you are traveling to a country that requires a Yellow Card, you may be denied entry or required to take the vaccine at the airport.
5. Can I Get a Yellow Card at the Airport?
Yes, some international airports in Nigeria have Port Health Services offices where you can get vaccinated and obtain your Yellow Card. However, it is best to do this in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Yellow Card in Nigeria is a simple process that requires just ₦2,000, a valid ID, and a quick vaccination at an accredited center. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can avoid fake cards, delays, and unnecessary stress when traveling.
Always ensure you get your Yellow Card from official sources to guarantee its authenticity. Safe travels!