EES · ETIAS — Last checked 5 November 2026
Travelling to Europe with medication
Strong painkillers, ADHD medicines or sleeping pills can need extra documents. Find out what applies to you in three questions.
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules differ per country and change; check with the embassy or health authorities of your destination.
What the “Schengen certificate” isThe Schengen certificate is an official form for people who live in a Schengen country and travel to another Schengen country with medicines that fall under narcotic or psychotropic drug laws. It is issued in your country of residence and is valid for up to 30 days.
Visitors from outside EuropeIf you live outside the Schengen area, the Schengen certificate is not for you. Each country you visit applies its own rules for controlled medicines. A prescription copy and a doctor’s letter are the minimum; some countries also require a permit or limit the amount.
Medicines that often need extra careOpioid painkillers, ADHD stimulants, benzodiazepines and other sleeping pills, and medicinal cannabis. Regular prescription medicines are usually fine for personal use with a prescription.