Though traveling in the time of COVID-19 comes with risks and restrictions, most essential travels and some leisure trips can be done safely with strict implementation of health protocols—including a few documents you need to secure.
Good thing SM Supermalls has partnered with the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) to help outbound travelers from the Philippines obtain a yellow card—or what is officially known as the International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV). But before rushing out to get one, read this quick guide to discover if and when you really need it.
What is a yellow card?
The yellow card or ICV is a temporary, government-issued document that proves a traveler has been fully vaccinated in the Philippines against COVID-19. Recognized by the World Health Organization, this printed official document can be given to international travelers until VaxCertPH—an online portal for issuing COVID-19 vaccination certificates—becomes fully operational.
The yellow card contains a traveler’s details as well as a unique QR code. It also includes information about the vaccine/prophylaxis, the date it was administered, the supervising physician’s signature and professional status, the manufacturer batch number of the vaccine/prophylaxis, the certificate of validity, and the official stamp of the administering center.
When do you need a yellow card?
The yellow card can be used by OFWs, seafarers, and travelers engaged in import/export and international relations. However, you only need to get an ICV if: 1) you are traveling to another country, and 2) the country of destination/principal/employer requires you to present an official document proving you have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Different countries have specific requirements, so be sure to check your destination’s entry conditions before applying for an ICV.
How can you get a yellow card?
Once you’ve determined that you have to get a yellow card, follow these easy steps to schedule an appointment:
1. Log on to the Bureau of Quarantine Online Booking System.
2. Select your location. If you live in NCR, you can book a schedule at SM Mall of Asia or SM North EDSA. (Note that the SM North EDSA satellite office can only issue ICV for COVID-19.)
3. Type in your email address.
4. Select the service you need. In this case, click on the tab with “International Certification of Vaccine for COVID-19.”
5. Choose your preferred date and time on the calendar.
6. Type in your personal information including travel and contact details.
7. Submit the necessary documents by uploading photos of your valid ID, and the front and back pages of your LGU-issued vaccination certificate.
8. Pay P300 to secure your appointment. Payment can be done through credit or debit cards, online banking, e-Money apps (GCash, Grab, and PayMaya), and payment centers (Family Mart, LBC, and 7-Eleven, to name a few). A convenience fee is added (P70) depending on your payment option.
9. Save a digital or printed copy of your receipt with the reference number.
10. On your scheduled appointment, bring your valid ID, your passport, and the original copy of the vaccine certificate issued by your LGU. Make sure to present your reference number at your chosen venue.
Adulting is made easy at SM Supermalls! Aside from getting a yellow card, you can also visit the mall to apply for your national ID, renew your passport, or register to vote for the 2022 elections!
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