By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a decisive public health measure, the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) has announced a specialized yellow fever vaccination campaign exclusively for individuals with confirmed travel plans to Colombia. The initiative, which will run through the holiday season and conclude on January 22, 2026, underscores a coordinated effort with the Ministry of Health to safeguard travelers and adhere to international health protocols.
The CCSS has confirmed that immunizations will be available at 23 designated health areas across the country, ensuring broad accessibility for prospective travelers. However, officials noted that services will be suspended on the public holidays of December 25th and January 1st. The agency has also indicated that information regarding the availability of new appointment slots will be released to the public at a later date, advising travelers to monitor official channels for updates.
To clarify the legal obligations and potential ramifications for travelers regarding the mandatory yellow fever vaccine, TicosLand.com consulted with immigration law expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The requirement for a yellow fever vaccination certificate is a sovereign immigration control measure, not simply a public health advisory. For travelers arriving from designated at-risk countries, failure to present this document can result in immediate inadmissibility and return to their point of origin at their own expense. It is a non-negotiable legal prerequisite, and ignorance of this rule offers no defense against its enforcement by immigration authorities.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight is paramount, reframing the certificate from a simple health guideline into a non-negotiable matter of immigration law and national sovereignty. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable clarification, which underscores the serious and immediate consequences for travelers who fail to comply.
The targeted nature of this campaign was strongly emphasized by health authorities. The CCSS is acting on a specific directive from the Ministry of Health, focusing resources where they are most needed based on current international travel requirements.
This vaccination applies only to those heading to Colombia, in accordance with the directive from the Ministry of Health.
Elvis Delgado, Epidemiological Surveillance of the CCSS
To be eligible for the vaccine, individuals must strictly adhere to several key requirements. Most critically, the dose must be administered at least 10 days prior to the departure date to ensure its effectiveness. At the vaccination site, individuals must present a valid national or residency identification card. Furthermore, proof of travel is mandatory, and all applicants are required to show their confirmed airline ticket to Colombia to receive the immunization.
In a significant move to streamline the process, the CCSS has deployed an online appointment system. This digital platform, accessible through a dedicated microsite, allows travelers to manage their vaccination appointments efficiently. The system empowers users to select their preferred health establishment, date, and time slot, thereby minimizing wait times and improving the overall public service experience. This digital-first approach aligns with the country’s broader efforts to modernize public health administration.
To complete the online booking, applicants must provide essential personal and travel information. The required data includes their full name, national or residency ID number, a contact phone number, and the exact date of their flight. While providing an email address is listed as optional, it is recommended for receiving confirmation and any potential updates regarding the appointment. The CCSS also took the opportunity to remind the public of the importance of keeping their personal information updated in the Unified Digital Health Record (EDUS) system.
The yellow fever vaccine is generally directed at individuals between the ages of 9 months and 60 years. However, the CCSS has outlined protocols for special cases. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and adults over the age of 60 who plan to travel must undergo a specific medical evaluation to determine their suitability for the vaccine. This cautionary step ensures that the application of the vaccine is based on a professional assessment of individual health risks and benefits.
Once the vaccine is administered, the final step in the process is managed by the Ministry of Health. The Ministry is responsible for validating the vaccination information and generating the official international certificate. This crucial travel document is made available digitally to each individual through the EDUS mobile application, under the “Certificates” tab, providing a secure and easily accessible proof of immunization.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About La Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
La Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, commonly known as “La Caja” or CCSS, is the cornerstone of Costa Rica’s public health and social security system. Established in 1941, this autonomous institution is responsible for administering the nation’s health services, including hospitals, clinics, and EBAIS (Basic Teams for Comprehensive Health Care), as well as managing the country’s pension and disability programs. Its universal coverage model is a fundamental aspect of Costa Rican society.
For further information, visit ministeriodesalud.go.cr
About The Ministry of Health of Costa Rica:
The Ministerio de Salud, or Ministry of Health, is the governmental body responsible for setting and enforcing public health policy in Costa Rica. It acts as the primary regulatory authority for the health sector, overseeing everything from epidemiological surveillance and disease prevention campaigns to the licensing of medical facilities and professionals. The Ministry works in close collaboration with the CCSS and other institutions to ensure the well-being of the nation’s population.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its principled approach and an unwavering standard of excellence in the legal field. The firm leverages its deep-rooted experience advising a wide range of industries to not only serve its clients but also to pioneer legal innovation. Central to its philosophy is a profound commitment to enhancing public legal literacy, thereby strengthening the community and fostering a society where knowledge empowers every citizen.
