Rijksoverheid explains when medicines covered by the Opiumwet require a declaration, useful for families, students and long-stay travellers.

What you need to know

When travelling from the Netherlands, prescription medicine is not always as simple as packing the box. Strong painkillers, some sleeping tablets, ADHD medication and medicinal cannabis may fall under Opiumwet rules and need a declaration.



  • Time and place: the Rijksoverheid and Douane guidance applies to travel from the Netherlands; Schengen and non-Schengen destinations can require different paperwork.
  • Best for: regular medicine users, parents travelling with children, students returning home, and anyone carrying prescription medication across borders.
  • Before you go: ask your pharmacy or doctor whether the medicine is covered, then follow the CAK route with the medicine name, dosage and travel dates ready.


Hokimi field note: a medicine declaration is not something to fix at the airport; when destination rules are unclear, contact that country's representation in the Netherlands first.

Check before you go

Dates, availability and external conditions can change. Confirm the latest information with the official source.

Check Dutch medicine declaration rules before travelling
This supporting visual comes from real media on this public item.

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