Personal importation: How to bring medicines into your country safely

Ordering medication from abroad can save money or give access to drugs your doctor recommended. Personal importation means bringing prescription or over-the-counter medicines into your country for your own use. Rules vary, so knowing the basics avoids fines, delays, or unsafe products.

First, check your country's rules. Many countries allow a limited supply for personal use—often 30 to 90 days—or require a prescription and a doctor’s letter. Controlled substances like opioids, some ADHD meds, and anabolic steroids are often banned or need special permits. Customs websites list allowed quantities and paperwork. Call customs or your health ministry if a rule is unclear.

Safety checks before you order

Pick licensed pharmacies with clear contact info, physical address, and pharmacist credentials. Look for pharmacy seals from recognized regulators and read independent reviews. Avoid sites that sell many controlled drugs without asking for a prescription. Check active ingredient names and dosages—brands can differ by country. Be wary of prices that are far below market; those deals often mean counterfeit or expired products.

Ask your doctor for a prescription and a short medical letter stating the medicine name, dose, and why you need it. Keep original packaging and inserts when the shipment arrives; those help customs and your pharmacist verify authenticity. If a package looks tampered with, refuse it and report the seller.

Customs, shipping, and taxes

Choose tracked shipping and expect customs to inspect packages. Declare medicines if required. Some countries let you import small amounts duty-free for personal use; others charge duties or VAT. Delays happen—plan ahead and don’t rely on last-minute international orders for time-sensitive meds. If a shipment is seized, contact the seller and proof of prescription may speed release.

Consider shipping to a trusted person in a country with simpler rules if allowed, but note this can add legal risk. For controlled substances, speak to your health authority about import permits or supervised supply options. Never try to hide medicines in luggage or mislabel them—this risks penalties and lost access to treatment.

When cost is the concern, compare alternatives: patient assistance programs, generic versions, or licensed Canadian-style pharmacies regulated by recognized authorities. Your local pharmacist may know legal, safe ways to save on meds without risking customs trouble.

Finally, report problems. If a drug causes unexpected side effects or looks fake, stop taking it and tell your doctor and local medicine regulator. Reporting helps authorities track unsafe sellers and protect others.

Keep paperwork and receipts for at least six months. If you need to show proof to customs or your doctor, invoices, tracking info, and the prescription save time. Use card payments or trusted escrow services — cash transfers are risky. Translate labels into your language if they aren't in English; a simple typed translation with the generic name (INN) helps pharmacists. Store temperature-sensitive meds according to instructions during transit and after arrival. If something feels off, consult your pharmacist before taking the medicine. Keep digital copies and paper.