Travelling with personal medicines in France (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Ordinary medicines are limited to the prescribed treatment period or, without a prescription, three months. Narcotic and psychotropic medicines need a certificate from a Schengen country of departure, or a prescription from elsewhere.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Ordinary medicines (not controlled)Visitor bringing personal medicines into the country | The quantity must match the treatment period on the prescription or, without a prescription, three months of treatment. A prescription is not required unless the treatment exceeds three months. [1] |
| Document for narcotic and psychotropic medicinesVisitor bringing personal medicines into the country | Arriving from a Schengen state: a certificate from the competent authorities of the country of departure is mandatory. Arriving from a non-Schengen state: a doctor's prescription is mandatory. The medicines must be carried personally. [1] |
| Quantity limit for narcotic and psychotropic medicinesVisitor bringing personal medicines into the country | Compatible with personal therapeutic use over the prescribed period. Without a prescription, the limit is one month of treatment under normal conditions of use. [1] |
| Maximum validity of a Schengen medicines certificateVisitor bringing personal medicines into the country | 30 days [1] |
Notes
- The 30 days is stated for the transport authorisation issued in France for travel to a Schengen state, within the maximum prescription period.
Sources
- Douane française: Le transport de médicaments en France par des particuliers (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.