Can I take medication into the Netherlands?
If you need to take medicines with you when travelling, you can take most medicines into the Netherlands without any problems. However, some medicines will require a certificate. Follow the steps below to find out what you have to do.
Step 1: Check whether you need a certificate
Some medicines require a certificate. For example sleeping pills, strong painkillers, ADHD medication and medicinal cannabis.
Check whether your medication or its ingredients are covered by the Dutch Opium Act. If this is the case, then you need a certificate.
Look for your medicine in List I and II of the Dutch Opium Act (information in Dutch)
If you do not require a certificate you will still have to show that the medicines are for your own use. For example, with a medication passport or list of your prescribed medication from your pharmacy. This is not mandatory, but it can be useful if you lose your medicine and have to get a new supply, or if you have to see a doctor.
Always carry your medicines in the original packaging. This will make it clear that they are medicines.
If you are travelling by air:
- Carry your medicines in your hand luggage. Then you can always show which medicines you have with you if you are checked.
- Check the rules of the airport and airline. For example, the rules on liquids and sharp objects.
If you need a certificate for your medication, go to step 2.
Step 2: Request a certificate
Which certificate you need depends on the country from which you are travelling to the Netherlands. Ask your family doctor or pharmacy where to get the certificate. Or read what you need and where to go by country on the website of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB).
Step 3: Legalisation
In some cases you must have the certificate legalised. This depends on the country from which you are travelling to the Netherlands. Check with customs in the country in question. Or read what you need and where to go by country on the website of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB).
Step 4: Travelling with medication
Remember to bring your certificate when you travel to the Netherlands. And carry your medicines in the original packaging. This will make it clear that they are medicines.
If you are travelling by air:
- Carry your medicines in your hand luggage. Then you can always show which medicines you have with you if you are checked.
- Check the rules of the airport and airline. For example, the rules on liquids and sharp objects.
- If you are making a transfer at an airport in the Netherlands, take the declaration with you as well. Customs may check you for this.
Contact
If you want to know whether you can take an item into the Netherlands, send a photo to customs via Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also call the Customs Information Line (DouaneTelefoon).
If you have a question about anything else, contact NetherlandsWorldwide.