If you are an NRI parent moving to the United States or already living there, a common question is whether your child’s Indian vaccination certificate will be accepted. The good news is that in most cases the answer is yes, but there are a few important points to keep in mind.

Indian vaccination records are generally recognized in the US as long as they are complete, accurate, and clearly documented. The records should include the child’s name, date of birth, vaccine names, dates of administration, batch numbers, and the name of the hospital or clinic. Certificates issued by licensed healthcare providers in India—whether from private clinics or government hospitals—are usually valid.

However, challenges can arise if the records are handwritten, unclear, or use abbreviations unfamiliar to American doctors. Documents written in regional Indian languages may also create confusion. To avoid such issues, it is advisable to carry an English-translated version of the vaccination card. Some parents prefer to have their pediatrician in India review and sign the certificate before travel, while others choose to have it verified by a US-based doctor after arrival.

Once in the US, most families schedule a review visit with a local pediatrician. During this check, the doctor will compare the Indian vaccination record with the CDC’s immunization schedule. If any doses are missing or outdated, the doctor may recommend additional shots or booster doses. This is because the US schedule differs slightly from India’s, especially for vaccines like Hepatitis A, Hib, and Varicella, which are not always routine in India.

For school admissions, every US state requires proof of immunization. Schools may ask for the records to be provided on a state-approved form, which a local doctor can complete after reviewing the Indian certificate. In some states, vaccination history also needs to be entered into an official immunization registry before a child can be enrolled.

If the Indian vaccination certificate is incomplete or unclear, doctors may order blood tests, called titers, to check if the child has immunity. In some cases, vaccines might need to be repeated. While this may feel unnecessary to parents, it is a common practice in many US school districts and healthcare settings to ensure public health standards are met.

Overall, Indian vaccination certificates are accepted in the USA, but they must be clear, complete, and preferably translated into English. It is always best to bring original documents, be prepared for verification by a US pediatrician, and understand that additional doses may sometimes be required. Planning ahead and reviewing state-specific health requirements can help you avoid delays in school admissions or healthcare check-ups.