Medicine & Health
Narcotics & controlled drugs
ProhibitedIllegal without authorisation — severe penalties apply.
Rules vary sharply by destination and the official customs or drug-control authority makes the final decision, so verify before you travel.
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Before you travel
Documents you may need
- Valid prescription in your name
- Doctor's letter stating each medication's generic name, dose, and medical reason
- Schengen medical certificate or destination-specific permit where required
- Personal import/export licence for large quantities or long trips (e.g. UK Home Office licence)
Next steps
- 1.Confirm your medicine is legal at your destination via its embassy
- 2.Carry your prescription and a detailed doctor's letter
- 3.Keep medicines in their original labeled containers
- 4.Declare controlled medicines to customs on arrival
- 5.Apply for any required export or import licence before you travel
Official sources
- INCB Guidance for Travellers carrying controlled medicines· INCB (UN)
- Traveling with Prohibited or Restricted Medications· U.S. CDC
- Bringing medicine containing a controlled drug into the UK· UK GOV.UK
Always verify with the official authority for your destination.
Country-specific rules
The default posture above applies worldwide. For the exact rules at your destination, check the country guide.
View country rules →