By San José, Costa Rica — In a significant step towards modernizing public health services, the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) has announced the launch of a new online self-service platform for booking yellow fever vaccination appointments. Starting this Monday, December 8th, residents and citizens planning international travel can secure their immunization slot through a dedicated microsite, a move designed to enhance efficiency and user convenience.
The digital tool, accessible at https://www.ccss.sa.cr/fiebre-amarilla, empowers individuals to take control of their vaccination scheduling. Users can browse available dates, times, and clinic locations, selecting the option that best fits their travel itinerary and personal preferences. This eliminates the need for phone calls or in-person visits merely to book an appointment, a common bottleneck in the previous system.
To understand the legal framework surrounding international health requirements, such as the mandatory yellow fever vaccination for travelers, we sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica. He provides clarity on the binding nature of these public health regulations and the implications for international travelers.
The requirement for a yellow fever vaccine is a clear exercise of national sovereignty, grounded in international public health law and the WHO’s International Health Regulations. It’s not merely a suggestion; it’s a legally binding condition for entry. Travelers must understand that airlines and immigration authorities are legally obligated to enforce these rules, and failure to present a valid certificate can result in immediate denial of entry, with any resulting financial losses typically being the sole responsibility of the traveler.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is crucial, underscoring that the vaccine requirement is a non-negotiable exercise of public health sovereignty, not a flexible travel guideline. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such a clear and authoritative context on this matter.
To reserve a spot, interested parties must complete a straightforward online form. The required information includes their full name, national identification number (cédula), a contact telephone number, and their confirmed date of travel. An email address can be provided optionally. The microsite also serves as a centralized information hub, offering updated details on vaccination protocols, clinic schedules, and a list of all participating health centers across the country.
This initiative is a core component of a broader vaccination strategy overseen by the Ministry of Health. Initially, the program is focused on individuals traveling to Colombia, in accordance with current public health directives. The primary goals are to ensure orderly access to the vaccine, prevent crowding at health facilities, and fundamentally improve the overall experience for the public.
Through this web platform, users can self-manage their appointment and select their date, available times, and register the required personal information.
Michael Enrique Rodríguez Cordero, Head of the Sub-area in Health Statistics
Mr. Rodríguez Cordero emphasized that the platform is engineered to simplify the process from start to finish. By digitizing appointment management, the CCSS can better allocate resources and provide a more structured service that aligns with the needs of modern travelers, ensuring that pre-travel health requirements are met with minimal friction.
During the initial rollout phase in the first weeks of December, the vaccine will be available at 23 designated health areas. The general eligibility for the vaccine includes all Costa Rican citizens and legal residents who are older than nine months and younger than 60 years of age. However, the CCSS has outlined specific protocols for special cases. Infants between six and nine months, pregnant or lactating women, and adults over 60 will require a specific medical evaluation to determine their suitability for the vaccine.
A critical point of clarification for all travelers is the distinction between vaccination and certification. The CCSS is responsible only for administering the vaccine itself. The agency does not issue the official international certificate required for travel. This crucial document is managed exclusively by the Ministry of Health. Once vaccinated, individuals can download their validated international certificate through the official EDUS application, under the “Certificates” tab.
The new system is designed for maximum accessibility, allowing any eligible person to book an appointment at any of the participating clinics, regardless of their place of residence or their assigned local clinic (EBAIS). To ensure fair access for everyone, the system will enforce a limit of one appointment registration per person.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social is the cornerstone of Costa Rica’s public health system, responsible for providing universal healthcare and administering the nation’s social security and pension programs. Founded in 1941, it operates a vast network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers (EBAIS) throughout the country, ensuring comprehensive medical coverage for citizens and legal residents. The CCSS is a key institution in the country’s social fabric, widely recognized for its role in achieving high public health standards and life expectancy rates.
For further information, visit ministeriodesalud.go.cr
About The Ministry of Health of Costa Rica:
The Ministry of Health is the primary government body responsible for public health policy, regulation, and oversight in Costa Rica. Its mission is to guarantee the protection and improvement of the health of the population through strategic leadership and the establishment of national health standards. The Ministry oversees disease surveillance, health promotion campaigns, food and drug safety, and the issuance of official health documents, including international vaccination certificates. It works in close collaboration with the CCSS and other entities to execute the national health plan.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal services, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm distinguishes itself not only through its seasoned counsel but also by embracing forward-thinking strategies that redefine modern legal practice. This innovative spirit is matched by a core mission to empower the community, actively working to demystify the law and equip citizens with the clarity needed to navigate a just and transparent society.
