Complete Guide to Importing Pharmaceuticals and Prescription Medications to Germany
If you're planning a trip to Germany, be aware that importing medications from Japan requires compliance with Germany's strict pharmaceutical regulations. Accidentally violating these rules can result in confiscation at the airport or, in worst cases, fines. This article, compiled by a licensed pharmacist with a doctoral degree in pharmaceutical sciences, explains the essential knowledge and procedures for bringing medications into Germany.
Basic Principles of Germany's Medication Import Rules
Germany is an EU member state, so medication imports are governed by both EU regulations and Germany's own laws. The most important principle is:
Medications for personal use are generally permitted, provided all of the following conditions are met:
- Prescription medications must be accompanied by the original prescription
- Over-the-counter medications in reasonable quantities (typically up to 3 months' supply)
- No prohibited substances under German law
- Use as part of medical treatment under professional supervision
Pharmacist's note The BfArM (Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices) is one of the strictest pharmaceutical regulatory agencies in the EU. Medications that are legal in Japan may be unapproved or prohibited in Germany. We strongly recommend checking the latest information on the website of the Japanese Embassy in Germany before traveling.
Medications You Can Bring and Required Documentation
Prescription Medication Import Requirements
A physician's prescription is essential when bringing prescription drugs to Germany.
| Medication Type | Permitted | Required Documents | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hypertension medications(amlodipine, losartan, etc.) | ✅ Yes | Prescription + English letter from physician | Up to 3 months' supply recommended |
| Diabetes medications(metformin, glibenclam) | ✅ Yes | Prescription + English letter from physician | Insulin requires consultation regarding refrigeration |
| Thyroid disease medications(levothyroxine) | ✅ Yes | Prescription | Generally no issues |
| Antidepressants(SSRIs: sertraline, paroxetine) | ⚠️ Verify | Prescription + English letter from physician | For stays exceeding 6 months, German prescription recommended |
| Benzodiazepines(diazepam, lorazepam) | ⚠️ Verify | Prescription + English letter from physician + medical certificate | Subject to regulation in Germany; limited to ~3 months' supply |
Essential procedures:
-
Obtain an English-language letter from your Japanese physician
Inform your doctor that you're bringing medications to Germany. Request the letter include:- Medication name (both generic and brand names)
- Dosage and administration method
- Medical condition being treated
- Duration of stay
- Statement: "For personal use only"
-
Carry a copy of the prescription
An English-language prescription is ideal, but a physician's signed English letter is acceptable as an alternative. -
Keep original packaging and labels
Medications must remain in original containers with labels visible in German or English.
Pharmacist's note Many prescription medications cost significantly less in Germany's healthcare system than in Japan. For stays exceeding 3 months, it's more efficient to consult a German physician and obtain a local prescription. German doctors can access medical records within the EU, making care relatively seamless.
Over-the-Counter Medication Import
OTC medications don't require a prescription but are subject to quantity and type restrictions.
| Medication Category | Examples | Maximum Quantity | Availability in Germany |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold remedies | Various brand-name products | ~3 boxes | ⭐ Easy (available at drugstores) |
| Pain/fever relievers | Ibuprofen products, etc. | ~30-day supply | ⭐ Easy (ibuprofen sold OTC) |
| Stomach medications | Antacids, digestive aids | 3-month supply | ⭐ Easy |
| Anti-diarrheal | Probiotics, traditional remedies | 1 bottle/box | ⭐ Easy |
| Eye drops | Various brands | Several bottles | ⭐ Easy |
| Patches/ointments | Medicated patches, liniments | Multiple pieces | ⭐ Easy |
| Laxatives | Products containing sennosides | ⚠️ Check restrictions | See notes below |
OTC medication import checklist:
- ✅ Keep medications in original containers/boxes
- ✅ Japanese labels are acceptable (German customs understands them)
- ✅ Keep tablets/capsules in original bottles or packaging; do not transfer to pill organizers
- ✅ Carry instruction sheets if available
- ❌ Do not misrepresent prescription medications as OTC (customs will detect this)
Prohibited and Restricted Medication Ingredients in Germany
Under German Pharmaceutical Law (Arzneimittelgesetz, AMG), the following ingredients are prohibited or strictly controlled for personal import.
Completely Prohibited Ingredients
| Ingredient/Medication | Reason | Japanese Product Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Ephedra/ephedrine | Illegal drug concerns | Herbal cough remedies, certain cold medicines |
| Codeine (OTC cough suppressants) | Abuse prevention | OTC cough syrup (some formulations) |
| Pseudoephedrine | Amphetamine-like substance | Certain nasal decongestants |
| Synthetic musk | Environmental contamination concern | Some perfumes, quasi-pharmaceutical products |
Restricted Ingredients (Permitted with Physician's Prescription)
| Ingredient/Medication | German Regulatory Status | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam, etc.) | Schedule IV controlled | Prescription + English physician's letter required |
| Barbiturates | Limited prescribing | Difficult to obtain in Germany |
| Strong opioids (morphine-containing) | Prescription + special permit required | Consult Japanese Embassy in Germany in advance |
| Cancer chemotherapy agents | Prescription + detailed physician letter required | For long-term stays, transition to German physician |
Pharmacist's note Ephedra-containing products require special attention. Even herbal remedies like certain traditional cough medicines may be confiscated in Germany due to ephedrine content. Herbal origin does not equal safety—Germany classifies based on chemical composition. Pre-travel verification is essential.
Step-by-Step Import Procedures
What to Do One Month Before Departure
Step 1: Create a medication list
[Example]
- Amlodipine 5mg: once daily, 1-month supply (30 tablets)
- Ibuprofen 200mg: as needed, 1-2 tablets per dose (10 tablets)
- Eye drops: 3-4 times daily (1 bottle)
Step 2: Consult your Japanese physician
- Inform your doctor you'll be staying in Germany for [duration]
- Request an English-language prescription and physician's letter
- Typical cost: ¥2,000–¥5,000
Step 3: Pre-travel verification with Japanese Embassy in Germany
- Berlin Embassy: https://www.de.emb-japan.go.jp/
- For uncertain medications, inquire using the specific drug name (INN/generic name)
- Allow 1–2 weeks for a response; contact well in advance
Step 4: Prepare medications
- Keep all medications in original containers with labels
- Store prescriptions/physician letters separately (but in same carry-on bag)
- Prepare two copies of the English physician's letter (one for customs, one for your records)
Customs Declaration Form Completion
You may need to complete a customs declaration upon arrival in Germany.
Select "Goods to declare" and note:
- "Personal medication for personal use during my stay"
- Generic medication name, dosage, and quantity
- "Accompanied by medical prescription and doctor's certification letter"
Pharmacist's note Many modern airports use electronic gates; small quantities of OTC medications may not require declaration. However, when in doubt, always declare. Concealing medications discovered at customs can result in legal consequences.
Using Healthcare and Pharmacies Upon Arrival in Germany
Obtaining a German Prescription
For stays exceeding 3 months, we strongly recommend consulting a German physician to obtain a local prescription.
Finding a physician:
- Kassenärztliche Vereinigung (official physician directory)
Each state's medical association website (e.g., KV Berlin) offers searchable listings - International patient clinics
Berlin: International Medical Service / Charité
Munich: International Clinic
Documents needed for German physician consultation:
- Passport and visa
- English translation of your medical records/diagnosis from your Japanese physician
- Health insurance certificate or travel insurance policy
Using German Pharmacies (Apotheke)
German pharmacies are widely available and dispense most prescription medications.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Business hours | Weekdays 8:00–18:30, Saturdays 8:00–13:00 (closed Sundays) |
| Prescription requirement | Required for prescription medications |
| Pricing | Often cheaper than Japan (example: 1-month supply amlodipine €5–€10) |
| Language support | English-speaking staff common in urban areas |
| Delivery service | Pharmacies with "Apotheke am..." in the name typically offer online delivery |
Useful phrases at German pharmacies:
- "I need a prescription refill for..."
- "Do you have an English-speaking pharmacist?"
- "Can I get this without a prescription?"
Pharmacist's note German dispensing pharmacies (Offizin-Apotheke) do not permit self-service medication selection; all medications are dispensed by the pharmacist. This practice maintains high patient safety standards. Don't hesitate to ask questions.