Frequently asked travel questions

Medicine and Narcotics:

A traveler requiring medicines that contain habit-forming drugs or narcotics (e.g. cough medicine, diuretics, heart drugs, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, antidepressants, stimulants, etc.) should:

• Have all drugs, medicines, and similar products properly identified and in their original containers.
• Carry only such quantity as would normally be used by an individual having a health problem requiring the drugs or medicines.
• Obtain either a prescription or written statement from your personal physician that the medicine is for use under a doctor's direction and that it is necessary for your physical well being while traveling.
• Declare such drugs or medications to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.

Narcotics and dangerous drugs are prohibited entry. There are severe civil and/or criminal penalties if imported.  Cannabis in any form, even if prescribed as medication is prohibited.

For more information, please read the relevant answer in the Q&A section of CBP.