Planning a trip from the UK to Goa? With its beaches, culture, and tropical climate, Goa is a favourite destination for British travellers. While there are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into India from the UK, several recommended vaccinations can help protect your health during your trip.
This guide explains what vaccines you need, which ones to consider, and when to get them.
Are Any Vaccinations Mandatory for Goa?
No.
If you are travelling directly from the UK to Goa, there are no compulsory vaccinations required for entry into India.
However, vaccinations may be required if:
You have recently travelled through a yellow fever–affected country
You are transiting from regions where yellow fever is present
For most UK travellers, this does not apply.
Routine Vaccinations (Make Sure You’re Up to Date)
Before travel, ensure your routine UK vaccinations are current, including:
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio
Seasonal flu (if travelling during winter)
These diseases are more common in India than in the UK.
Recommended Vaccinations for Goa
These vaccines are strongly recommended for most travellers:
- Hepatitis A
Spread through contaminated food and water
Very common in India
Usually one injection provides protection for a year
- Typhoid
Also spread via food and water
Recommended if you plan to eat local food or stay outside luxury resorts
Vaccines to Consider (Based on Your Travel Plans)
Depending on your activities, length of stay, and accommodation, you may also consider:
Hepatitis B
Recommended for longer stays
Important if you may need medical treatment or have close contact with locals
Rabies
Consider if you’ll be around animals, dogs, or rural areas
Pre-exposure vaccination is advised for adventure travellers
Japanese Encephalitis
Mainly for long stays (1 month or more)
Higher risk in rural areas, especially during monsoon season
Cholera
Generally low risk
May be advised for travellers with high exposure to unsafe food or water
Malaria & Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Goa
Malaria risk in Goa is low, and tablets are not usually required for short stays
However, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika are present
Protection Tips:
Use insect repellent with DEET
Wear long sleeves in the evening
Stay in accommodation with air-conditioning or mosquito nets
When Should You Get Vaccinated?
Visit a travel health clinic 6–8 weeks before departure
Some vaccines require multiple doses
Many travel vaccines (like Hep A and Typhoid) are free on the NHS
Final Thoughts
While you don’t have to get vaccinations to enter Goa from the UK, getting the recommended ones is strongly advised. They significantly reduce the risk of illness and help ensure a safe, enjoyable trip.
A short appointment with a travel health professional can tailor advice specifically to your itinerary.
Safe travels and enjoy Goa 🌴
