Can you bring ADHD medication to to Japan?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Japan with medication: Can you bring your ADHD medication? The answer is yes, you can bring your ADHD medication to Japan, but it depends on the medication class and quantity. Furthermore, depending on the ADHD medication brand, you may be required to obtain a Japan medication import certificate known as Yunyu Kakunin-sho.

How do I know if I need a Japanese Medication Import Certificate?

Certain medications are defined as psychotropics or narcotics by the Compliance and Narcotics Division of the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare of Japan, and therefore require the use of a special import certificate known as Yunyu Kakunin-sho. Depending on the class of the ADHD medication you bring to Japan, you will need to go through the Japanese import process. Travelers carrying more than a 30-day supply are also required to go through the Yunyu Kakunin-sho process, regardless of medication type.

How do I go through the Japanese Medication Import process?

In order to fill out an application for the Japanese medication import certificate, you must first create an account on the Yunyu Kakunin-sho website. Next, you must fill out various online forms about your specific medications and provide special documentation from your healthcare provider. Our Import Certificate Tips page provides a full walkthrough for completing the Japan import certificate application process.

Where can I find the list of prohibited medications in Japan?

Our website specializes in bringing ADHD medication to Japan. We have outlined the legality of different ADHD medication brands in Japan in our article about ADHD medication in Japan. For more information on other medication types, please reference the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in Japan website, which includes the list of prohibited medications in Japan as well as controlled substances.

What documentation do I need from my healthcare provider to travel to Japan?

Regardless of whether or not your medication requires an import certificate in Japan, it is important to have basic documentation for your medications, including a doctor’s note and a list of prescriptions with your name on them. For more information on the required documentation for travel to Japan, please reference our Doctor’s Notes and More article.