Permit for Carrying Narcotic Medications When Leaving Germany

Carrying narcotic medicines when leaving Germany: rules and required documents

German law generally prohibits leaving the country with medicines classified as narcotics (Betäubungsmittel) without an official permit – even if they have been prescribed by a doctor.
Substances covered by the German Narcotics Act (Betäubungsmittelgesetz – BtMG) include strong painkillers, medicines for neurological disorders, certain cancer drugs and powerful sedatives. All of these are strictly controlled, especially when crossing international borders via airports or land crossings.

What is meant by “narcotic medicines”?

These are medicines containing active substances such as:

• Morphine (Morphin)

• Oxycodone (Oxycodon)

• Fentanyl (Fentanyl)

• Ritalin (methylphenidate preparations such as “Ritalin”)

• Diazepam (Diazepam) above certain strengths

Even if you hold a valid prescription, taking such medicines out of Germany without authorisation may be considered a customs offence and, in some cases, a criminal offence – especially if you cannot convincingly prove that they are for legitimate personal use only.

Required documents when leaving Germany

1. International medical certificate under Article 75 of the Schengen Implementing Convention

This certificate is officially called:

“Bescheinigung gemäß Artikel 75 Schengener Durchführungsübereinkommen”

Key points:

• Issued by the treating physician (general practitioner or specialist)

• Countersigned / certified by the local Gesundheitsamt (public health authority)

• Valid for a maximum of 30 days

The certificate must state, among other things:

• Patient’s full name

• Name of the medicinal product / active substance and its concentration

• Intended duration of treatment

• Maximum quantity allowed for the journey

2. Proof of travel booking (optional but recommended)

For example: flight reservation, ticket or travel itinerary, to show that the purpose is medical treatment abroad, not trafficking.

Do all countries accept this Schengen certificate?

No. Some countries do not recognise the Schengen arrangements relating to narcotic drugs, including for example:

• Turkey

• United Arab Emirates

• Saudi Arabia

• Egypt and other states

Therefore, it is strongly recommended to contact the embassy or consulate of the destination country before travelling. Some countries require a separate national permit or impose a total ban on certain medicines, even if they are legal and prescribed in Germany.

What should you do at the airport?

• Keep the medicines in their original packaging, preferably unopened, with the package leaflet included.

• Carry the certificate signed by the doctor and stamped by the Gesundheitsamt in your hand luggage.

• Declare the medicines to customs officers if asked and be prepared for inspection.

Possible penalties for non-compliance

• Immediate confiscation of the medicines at the airport or border.

• Possible criminal investigation if there is suspicion of smuggling or unlawful possession.

• In some countries, severe penalties may apply, including long prison sentences.

Summary

Carrying narcotic medicines out of Germany requires a properly issued medical certificate; a prescription alone is not sufficient.
To avoid legal and customs problems, obtain the certificate well in advance, keep all documents with you when travelling, and carefully check the import rules of the destination country.

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Our editorial team strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and consultation of multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some details may be incomplete or not yet definitively confirmed. Please regard the information in this article as an initial guide only and always consult the competent authorities and official bodies for binding, up-to-date advice.