Taking medication abroad
If you are taking medication, make sure you take the right amount on your trip. There are some other things to consider too.
Taking medication with you
If you are taking medication with you on a trip or holiday:
- make sure that you have enough for your whole stay - and an extra supply in case of delays or emergencies
- get a letter from your doctor to say that you need the medication and keep a list in case you lose it or need to get more during your stay
- list the proper names of the medication - not just the trade names. Keep it in its original packaging
- keep a written record with you of any medical condition affecting you such as diabetes or haemophilia
If you are flying
An airline is entitled to demand that a passenger travels with a companion if the passenger is not self-sufficient. This includes administering their own medicines and medical procedures.
Don't claim that you are self-sufficient if you are not. You may cause yourself and the airline serious problems because they will be unable to meet your basic needs.
Always pack your medication in your hand luggage where possible in case your main luggage goes missing.
Medication and other countries
You may need to check with the Embassy or High Commission of the country you are visiting in case they have any restrictions on taking your medication into the country.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is responsible for foreign affairs. The travel section of their website contains information for anyone planning a trip overseas and has information by country.
Source: direct.gov.uk © Crown copyright
PERSONAL LICENCES
Travellers carrying prescribed drugs controlled under Schedules 1, 2, 3 and 4 Part I to The Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 may require a personal licence.
If you are travelling for over three months, or are carrying more than 3 months' supply of prescribed controlled drug medication, either abroad or to the United Kingdom, you will need a personal export/import licence.
Please apply at least 10 working days in advance of your date of travel.
If you are applying from overseas you should allow more time for your application to be processed and for the licence to be posted to you.
You will need to provide the following documents in support of an application for a personal export/import licence:
-
a letter from your prescribing doctor or drug worker
If you are travelling for three months or fewer you will not need a personal export/import licence.
Advice to travellers
Airline regulations permitting, you should carry the medication in your hand luggage and include a covering letter from your doctor.
Other countries may have their own import regulations for controlled drugs. You should check this with the UK-based representative(s) of the country/countries to which and through which you are travelling.
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