This page is not a substitute for travel-medicine or legal advice. Import rules for medications can change at short notice and may differ in individual cases. If in doubt — especially with prescription medications that have addiction or abuse potential — check in advance with the Chinese embassy or consulate-general for your country, and with a travel-medicine clinic. Facts on this page are drawn from the official sources linked under each country's flag; where an official source could not be found or verified, we've said so rather than guessing.
ADHD medications
Amphetamine (used in Adderall/Vyvanse/Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (used in Ritalin/Concerta/Medikinet/Elvanse) are both listed as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. Shanghai and Chongqing's own municipal-government guidance for travellers describes a narrow path for personal-use import: a medical diagnosis certificate, your ID, proactive declaration at customs, and a quantity capped at what a single prescription would cover — generally a 7-day supply for controlled/sustained-release forms, with a 15-day exception specifically for paediatric ADHD methylphenidate use. In practice, travellers consistently report this is inconsistent between ports of entry and sometimes refused even with full paperwork — treat the guidance below as a starting point, not a guarantee, and this is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from US, Canadian, and German travellers specifically.
Brand names in United States
Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Dexedrine
What to actually do
- Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate for your country in writing, well before departure, and ask specifically about your medication and dose — get any response in writing and print a copy to carry with you.
- Ask your prescriber about a temporary non-stimulant alternative, or a supervised treatment pause, especially for shorter trips.
- If you do bring your medication, carry it in the original prescription-labelled packaging together with a diagnosis letter naming the active ingredient and dose, and your passport — never split doses into unlabelled containers or conceal medication in luggage.
- Even with complete paperwork, be prepared for the medication to be questioned or held at the border — treat entry as uncertain, not guaranteed, no matter how thorough your documentation is.
Amphetamine (used in Adderall/Vyvanse/Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (used in Ritalin/Concerta/Medikinet/Elvanse) are both listed as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. Shanghai and Chongqing's own municipal-government guidance for travellers describes a narrow path for personal-use import: a medical diagnosis certificate, your ID, proactive declaration at customs, and a quantity capped at what a single prescription would cover — generally a 7-day supply for controlled/sustained-release forms, with a 15-day exception specifically for paediatric ADHD methylphenidate use. In practice, travellers consistently report this is inconsistent between ports of entry and sometimes refused even with full paperwork — treat the guidance below as a starting point, not a guarantee, and this is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from US, Canadian, and German travellers specifically.
Brand names in United Kingdom
Elvanse, Concerta XL, Medikinet
What to actually do
- Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate for your country in writing, well before departure, and ask specifically about your medication and dose — get any response in writing and print a copy to carry with you.
- Ask your prescriber about a temporary non-stimulant alternative, or a supervised treatment pause, especially for shorter trips.
- If you do bring your medication, carry it in the original prescription-labelled packaging together with a diagnosis letter naming the active ingredient and dose, and your passport — never split doses into unlabelled containers or conceal medication in luggage.
- Even with complete paperwork, be prepared for the medication to be questioned or held at the border — treat entry as uncertain, not guaranteed, no matter how thorough your documentation is.
Amphetamine (used in Adderall/Vyvanse/Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (used in Ritalin/Concerta/Medikinet/Elvanse) are both listed as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. Shanghai and Chongqing's own municipal-government guidance for travellers describes a narrow path for personal-use import: a medical diagnosis certificate, your ID, proactive declaration at customs, and a quantity capped at what a single prescription would cover — generally a 7-day supply for controlled/sustained-release forms, with a 15-day exception specifically for paediatric ADHD methylphenidate use. In practice, travellers consistently report this is inconsistent between ports of entry and sometimes refused even with full paperwork — treat the guidance below as a starting point, not a guarantee, and this is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from US, Canadian, and German travellers specifically.
Brand names in Canada
Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Dexedrine
What to actually do
- Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate for your country in writing, well before departure, and ask specifically about your medication and dose — get any response in writing and print a copy to carry with you.
- Ask your prescriber about a temporary non-stimulant alternative, or a supervised treatment pause, especially for shorter trips.
- If you do bring your medication, carry it in the original prescription-labelled packaging together with a diagnosis letter naming the active ingredient and dose, and your passport — never split doses into unlabelled containers or conceal medication in luggage.
- Even with complete paperwork, be prepared for the medication to be questioned or held at the border — treat entry as uncertain, not guaranteed, no matter how thorough your documentation is.
Amphetamine (used in Adderall/Vyvanse/Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (used in Ritalin/Concerta/Medikinet/Elvanse) are both listed as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. Shanghai and Chongqing's own municipal-government guidance for travellers describes a narrow path for personal-use import: a medical diagnosis certificate, your ID, proactive declaration at customs, and a quantity capped at what a single prescription would cover — generally a 7-day supply for controlled/sustained-release forms, with a 15-day exception specifically for paediatric ADHD methylphenidate use. In practice, travellers consistently report this is inconsistent between ports of entry and sometimes refused even with full paperwork — treat the guidance below as a starting point, not a guarantee, and this is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from US, Canadian, and German travellers specifically.
Brand names in Australia
Vyvanse, Ritalin LA
What to actually do
- Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate for your country in writing, well before departure, and ask specifically about your medication and dose — get any response in writing and print a copy to carry with you.
- Ask your prescriber about a temporary non-stimulant alternative, or a supervised treatment pause, especially for shorter trips.
- If you do bring your medication, carry it in the original prescription-labelled packaging together with a diagnosis letter naming the active ingredient and dose, and your passport — never split doses into unlabelled containers or conceal medication in luggage.
- Even with complete paperwork, be prepared for the medication to be questioned or held at the border — treat entry as uncertain, not guaranteed, no matter how thorough your documentation is.
Amphetamine (used in Adderall/Vyvanse/Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (used in Ritalin/Concerta/Medikinet/Elvanse) are both listed as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. Shanghai and Chongqing's own municipal-government guidance for travellers describes a narrow path for personal-use import: a medical diagnosis certificate, your ID, proactive declaration at customs, and a quantity capped at what a single prescription would cover — generally a 7-day supply for controlled/sustained-release forms, with a 15-day exception specifically for paediatric ADHD methylphenidate use. In practice, travellers consistently report this is inconsistent between ports of entry and sometimes refused even with full paperwork — treat the guidance below as a starting point, not a guarantee, and this is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from US, Canadian, and German travellers specifically.
Brand names in New Zealand
Vyvanse, Ritalin LA
What to actually do
- Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate for your country in writing, well before departure, and ask specifically about your medication and dose — get any response in writing and print a copy to carry with you.
- Ask your prescriber about a temporary non-stimulant alternative, or a supervised treatment pause, especially for shorter trips.
- If you do bring your medication, carry it in the original prescription-labelled packaging together with a diagnosis letter naming the active ingredient and dose, and your passport — never split doses into unlabelled containers or conceal medication in luggage.
- Even with complete paperwork, be prepared for the medication to be questioned or held at the border — treat entry as uncertain, not guaranteed, no matter how thorough your documentation is.
Amphetamine (used in Adderall/Vyvanse/Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (used in Ritalin/Concerta/Medikinet/Elvanse) are both listed as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. Shanghai and Chongqing's own municipal-government guidance for travellers describes a narrow path for personal-use import: a medical diagnosis certificate, your ID, proactive declaration at customs, and a quantity capped at what a single prescription would cover — generally a 7-day supply for controlled/sustained-release forms, with a 15-day exception specifically for paediatric ADHD methylphenidate use. In practice, travellers consistently report this is inconsistent between ports of entry and sometimes refused even with full paperwork — treat the guidance below as a starting point, not a guarantee, and this is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from US, Canadian, and German travellers specifically.
Brand names in Ireland
Elvanse, Concerta XL, Medikinet
What to actually do
- Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate for your country in writing, well before departure, and ask specifically about your medication and dose — get any response in writing and print a copy to carry with you.
- Ask your prescriber about a temporary non-stimulant alternative, or a supervised treatment pause, especially for shorter trips.
- If you do bring your medication, carry it in the original prescription-labelled packaging together with a diagnosis letter naming the active ingredient and dose, and your passport — never split doses into unlabelled containers or conceal medication in luggage.
- Even with complete paperwork, be prepared for the medication to be questioned or held at the border — treat entry as uncertain, not guaranteed, no matter how thorough your documentation is.
Amphetamine (used in Adderall/Vyvanse/Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (used in Ritalin/Concerta/Medikinet/Elvanse) are both listed as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. Shanghai and Chongqing's own municipal-government guidance for travellers describes a narrow path for personal-use import: a medical diagnosis certificate, your ID, proactive declaration at customs, and a quantity capped at what a single prescription would cover — generally a 7-day supply for controlled/sustained-release forms, with a 15-day exception specifically for paediatric ADHD methylphenidate use. In practice, travellers consistently report this is inconsistent between ports of entry and sometimes refused even with full paperwork — treat the guidance below as a starting point, not a guarantee, and this is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from US, Canadian, and German travellers specifically.
Brand names in Germany
Medikinet, Ritalin, Elvanse, Attentin
What to actually do
- Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate for your country in writing, well before departure, and ask specifically about your medication and dose — get any response in writing and print a copy to carry with you.
- Ask your prescriber about a temporary non-stimulant alternative, or a supervised treatment pause, especially for shorter trips.
- If you do bring your medication, carry it in the original prescription-labelled packaging together with a diagnosis letter naming the active ingredient and dose, and your passport — never split doses into unlabelled containers or conceal medication in luggage.
- Even with complete paperwork, be prepared for the medication to be questioned or held at the border — treat entry as uncertain, not guaranteed, no matter how thorough your documentation is.
Source: Shanghai Municipal Government — bringing psychotropic medications into China
Codeine & other controlled painkillers
Codeine-containing medicines — sold over the counter or on a simple pharmacist consultation in some countries — are classified as controlled substances in China. They aren't banned outright, but legally importing them requires the same procedure as other restricted painkillers above: a medical diagnosis certificate, ID, and a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Brand names in United States
No widely-sold codeine-combination brand identified for this market.
What to actually do
- Assume any codeine-, dihydrocodeine-, or tramadol-containing medicine needs the same diagnosis-certificate + ID + personal-use-quantity procedure as other restricted painkillers — "it's over the counter at home" doesn't mean it travels the same way.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a plain paracetamol/ibuprofen equivalent to pack instead where possible, and keep any codeine-containing medicine you do bring in its original pharmacy packaging with the dispensing label.
Codeine-containing medicines — sold over the counter or on a simple pharmacist consultation in some countries — are classified as controlled substances in China. They aren't banned outright, but legally importing them requires the same procedure as other restricted painkillers above: a medical diagnosis certificate, ID, and a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Brand names in United Kingdom
co-codamol, codeine linctus
What to actually do
- Assume any codeine-, dihydrocodeine-, or tramadol-containing medicine needs the same diagnosis-certificate + ID + personal-use-quantity procedure as other restricted painkillers — "it's over the counter at home" doesn't mean it travels the same way.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a plain paracetamol/ibuprofen equivalent to pack instead where possible, and keep any codeine-containing medicine you do bring in its original pharmacy packaging with the dispensing label.
Codeine-containing medicines — sold over the counter or on a simple pharmacist consultation in some countries — are classified as controlled substances in China. They aren't banned outright, but legally importing them requires the same procedure as other restricted painkillers above: a medical diagnosis certificate, ID, and a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Brand names in Canada
Tylenol No. 1
What to actually do
- Assume any codeine-, dihydrocodeine-, or tramadol-containing medicine needs the same diagnosis-certificate + ID + personal-use-quantity procedure as other restricted painkillers — "it's over the counter at home" doesn't mean it travels the same way.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a plain paracetamol/ibuprofen equivalent to pack instead where possible, and keep any codeine-containing medicine you do bring in its original pharmacy packaging with the dispensing label.
Codeine-containing medicines — sold over the counter or on a simple pharmacist consultation in some countries — are classified as controlled substances in China. They aren't banned outright, but legally importing them requires the same procedure as other restricted painkillers above: a medical diagnosis certificate, ID, and a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Brand names in Australia
Panadeine
What to actually do
- Assume any codeine-, dihydrocodeine-, or tramadol-containing medicine needs the same diagnosis-certificate + ID + personal-use-quantity procedure as other restricted painkillers — "it's over the counter at home" doesn't mean it travels the same way.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a plain paracetamol/ibuprofen equivalent to pack instead where possible, and keep any codeine-containing medicine you do bring in its original pharmacy packaging with the dispensing label.
- Panadeine and similar codeine-combination products became prescription-only domestically from 1 February 2018 (TGA) — if you have a current prescription, bring the prescription itself, not just the box.
Codeine-containing medicines — sold over the counter or on a simple pharmacist consultation in some countries — are classified as controlled substances in China. They aren't banned outright, but legally importing them requires the same procedure as other restricted painkillers above: a medical diagnosis certificate, ID, and a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Brand names in New Zealand
No widely-sold codeine-combination brand identified for this market.
What to actually do
- Assume any codeine-, dihydrocodeine-, or tramadol-containing medicine needs the same diagnosis-certificate + ID + personal-use-quantity procedure as other restricted painkillers — "it's over the counter at home" doesn't mean it travels the same way.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a plain paracetamol/ibuprofen equivalent to pack instead where possible, and keep any codeine-containing medicine you do bring in its original pharmacy packaging with the dispensing label.
Codeine-containing medicines — sold over the counter or on a simple pharmacist consultation in some countries — are classified as controlled substances in China. They aren't banned outright, but legally importing them requires the same procedure as other restricted painkillers above: a medical diagnosis certificate, ID, and a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Brand names in Ireland
co-codamol, codeine linctus
What to actually do
- Assume any codeine-, dihydrocodeine-, or tramadol-containing medicine needs the same diagnosis-certificate + ID + personal-use-quantity procedure as other restricted painkillers — "it's over the counter at home" doesn't mean it travels the same way.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a plain paracetamol/ibuprofen equivalent to pack instead where possible, and keep any codeine-containing medicine you do bring in its original pharmacy packaging with the dispensing label.
Codeine-containing medicines — sold over the counter or on a simple pharmacist consultation in some countries — are classified as controlled substances in China. They aren't banned outright, but legally importing them requires the same procedure as other restricted painkillers above: a medical diagnosis certificate, ID, and a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Brand names in Germany
Codeinsaft, Paracetamol-Codein, Tilidin
What to actually do
- Assume any codeine-, dihydrocodeine-, or tramadol-containing medicine needs the same diagnosis-certificate + ID + personal-use-quantity procedure as other restricted painkillers — "it's over the counter at home" doesn't mean it travels the same way.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a plain paracetamol/ibuprofen equivalent to pack instead where possible, and keep any codeine-containing medicine you do bring in its original pharmacy packaging with the dispensing label.
- Tilidin is a Betäubungsmittel (narcotic) under German law, not just a controlled medicine — document it with the same paperwork as opioid painkillers, and don't rely on the Schengen certificate (see the documentation note above).
Travel Medical Insurance
United States
Original Medicare doesn't cover care received outside the United States except in very limited circumstances, and Medicare drug plans don't cover prescriptions bought abroad (medicare.gov). The State Department separately advises that the U.S. government does not pay medical bills for citizens abroad and recommends supplemental insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
United Kingdom
The GHIC and EHIC only cover healthcare in the EU/EEA and Switzerland (nhsbsa.nhs.uk) — China isn't included, so neither card gives you any coverage there. Take out separate travel insurance with adequate medical and repatriation cover before you go.
Canada
"Your provincial or territorial health plan may cover none, or only a small part, of the costs of your medical care abroad including a medical evacuation, if needed. It will never pay your bills up front" (travel.gc.ca). Buy separate travel health insurance before you go.
Australia
Australia has Reciprocal Health Care Agreements with only 11 countries (Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Ireland, Slovenia, Sweden, UK) — China is not one of them (servicesaustralia.gov.au). Smartraveller's China advice is explicit that medical care must be paid for out of pocket and travel insurance covering evacuation is essential.
New Zealand
"ACC does not cover treatment overseas" (safetravel.govt.nz) — it may help with follow-up costs after you're back in New Zealand, but only in limited circumstances. SafeTravel's advice for China is to have comprehensive travel insurance in place that includes medical evacuation by air.
Ireland
The EHIC "will not cover you for healthcare outside of the EU, other than Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein (EEA) and Switzerland"; if you're travelling outside the EU/EEA, "you should get private health insurance instead" (citizensinformation.ie). The DFA's China advice also recommends comprehensive travel insurance covering all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation.
Germany
Germany and China do have a Sozialversicherungsabkommen (in force since 2002), but it covers only pension and unemployment insurance — health insurance is explicitly excluded (gesetze-im-internet.de/svabkchng). In practice, gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) does not pay for treatment received in China. The Auswärtiges Amt's China page advises travellers to check with their Krankenkasse or private insurer that they have adequate travel health insurance covering a Rettungsflug (medical repatriation flight) — without it, you're responsible for treatment and hospital costs yourself.
Vaccine Cost & Access
United States
Travel vaccinations aren't covered by Medicare and aren't guaranteed under private plans either — check your specific plan's travel-vaccine benefit and budget for out-of-pocket cost at a travel clinic.
United Kingdom
On the NHS, cholera, the combined tetanus/diphtheria/polio booster, hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are free; hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, tick-borne encephalitis and yellow fever are normally only available privately, at your own cost (nhs.uk).
Canada
Coverage for travel vaccinations varies by province and by private plan — confirm what your provincial plan and any workplace benefits actually pay for before booking a travel-clinic appointment.
Australia
Not all travel vaccinations are subsidised — check current prices with your GP or a travel-medicine clinic. If you're travelling during the Northern Hemisphere winter flu season, the Australian Immunisation Handbook notes the Australian flu vaccine formulation differs from, and isn't registered for use in, the Northern Hemisphere — worth discussing timing and a possible second dose with your doctor.
New Zealand
Travel vaccinations are generally not funded in New Zealand — budget for the full cost at a travel clinic or your GP, and factor in that New Zealand's flu season is the reverse of China's when timing a flu shot.
Ireland
Travel vaccinations in Ireland are generally not covered by the public health system — check current prices with your GP or a travel clinic before booking.
Germany
Whether your Krankenkasse pays for Reiseimpfungen (travel vaccinations) varies by insurer — many cover WHO/STIKO-recommended travel vaccines at least partially, but confirm with your Kasse before booking. A yellow fever vaccination can only be given and certified at a state-approved Gelbfieberimpfstelle, under the WHO's International Health Regulations.
Import Rules: Which Medications China Restricts or Bans
These medications and substances lead to serious problems on entry to China — from confiscation to criminal consequences. The list is not exhaustive. Add a check against this list to your pre-trip checklist before you pack.
Absolutely Banned
Opium, morphine, heroin, and other classic narcotics
Banned without exception for personal import — regardless of quantity or purpose.
Cannabis, marijuana, and CBD products of any kind
Illegal throughout China even if the product is legally sold where you live.
Doping substances (e.g. clenbuterol, testosterone, nandrolone)
The import ban also applies to medically prescribed preparations containing these substances.
Imitations or counterfeits of approved medications
This also covers well-intentioned "substitute" medication from unauthorized sources.
Strictly Limited — Only with Documentation and in Minimal Quantities
Codeine-containing pain and cough medications
Classified as a controlled substance; permitted only with a medical diagnosis certificate, an ID document, and in a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Strong opioid painkillers
Same strict documentation and quantity requirements as codeine-containing medications.
Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam, lorazepam)
Classified as Category II psychotropic substances (a few, such as triazolam, are Category I); carrying them requires a medical diagnosis certificate and is limited to a small quantity matching personal use. See Medications A–Z for individual drugs.
ADHD stimulants (amphetamine-type medications, methylphenidate)
Amphetamine and methylphenidate are both classified as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. In practice this makes them very difficult to import even with documentation — see the ADHD medication section above for country-specific guidance. Always confirm directly with the Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling.
Caution with Cold Medications (Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine)
Combination cold medications containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine
Pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are classified in China as controlled precursor chemicals for methamphetamine under the Regulations on the Administration of Precursor Chemicals (2005, amended 2014/2016/2018). Bring pseudoephedrine-free alternatives instead — e.g. phenylephrine-based products or plain nasal sprays.
Examples: Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)
Absolutely Banned
Opium, morphine, heroin, and other classic narcotics
Banned without exception for personal import — regardless of quantity or purpose.
Cannabis, marijuana, and CBD products of any kind
Illegal throughout China even if the product is legally sold where you live.
Doping substances (e.g. clenbuterol, testosterone, nandrolone)
The import ban also applies to medically prescribed preparations containing these substances.
Imitations or counterfeits of approved medications
This also covers well-intentioned "substitute" medication from unauthorized sources.
Strictly Limited — Only with Documentation and in Minimal Quantities
Codeine-containing pain and cough medications
Classified as a controlled substance; permitted only with a medical diagnosis certificate, an ID document, and in a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Strong opioid painkillers
Same strict documentation and quantity requirements as codeine-containing medications.
Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam, lorazepam)
Classified as Category II psychotropic substances (a few, such as triazolam, are Category I); carrying them requires a medical diagnosis certificate and is limited to a small quantity matching personal use. See Medications A–Z for individual drugs.
ADHD stimulants (amphetamine-type medications, methylphenidate)
Amphetamine and methylphenidate are both classified as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. In practice this makes them very difficult to import even with documentation — see the ADHD medication section above for country-specific guidance. Always confirm directly with the Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling.
Caution with Cold Medications (Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine)
Combination cold medications containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine
Pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are classified in China as controlled precursor chemicals for methamphetamine under the Regulations on the Administration of Precursor Chemicals (2005, amended 2014/2016/2018). Bring pseudoephedrine-free alternatives instead — e.g. phenylephrine-based products or plain nasal sprays.
Examples: Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), Day & Night Nurse
Absolutely Banned
Opium, morphine, heroin, and other classic narcotics
Banned without exception for personal import — regardless of quantity or purpose.
Cannabis, marijuana, and CBD products of any kind
Illegal throughout China even though cannabis is federally legal in Canada — this is the single most common mistake Canadian travellers make. There is no personal-use exemption.
Doping substances (e.g. clenbuterol, testosterone, nandrolone)
The import ban also applies to medically prescribed preparations containing these substances.
Imitations or counterfeits of approved medications
This also covers well-intentioned "substitute" medication from unauthorized sources.
Strictly Limited — Only with Documentation and in Minimal Quantities
Codeine-containing pain and cough medications
Classified as a controlled substance; permitted only with a medical diagnosis certificate, an ID document, and in a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Strong opioid painkillers
Same strict documentation and quantity requirements as codeine-containing medications.
Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam, lorazepam)
Classified as Category II psychotropic substances (a few, such as triazolam, are Category I); carrying them requires a medical diagnosis certificate and is limited to a small quantity matching personal use. See Medications A–Z for individual drugs.
ADHD stimulants (amphetamine-type medications, methylphenidate)
Amphetamine and methylphenidate are both classified as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. In practice this makes them very difficult to import even with documentation — see the ADHD medication section above for country-specific guidance. Always confirm directly with the Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling.
Caution with Cold Medications (Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine)
Combination cold medications containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine
Pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are classified in China as controlled precursor chemicals for methamphetamine under the Regulations on the Administration of Precursor Chemicals (2005, amended 2014/2016/2018). Bring pseudoephedrine-free alternatives instead — e.g. phenylephrine-based products or plain nasal sprays.
Examples: Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)
Absolutely Banned
Opium, morphine, heroin, and other classic narcotics
Banned without exception for personal import — regardless of quantity or purpose.
Cannabis, marijuana, and CBD products of any kind
Illegal throughout China even if the product is legally sold where you live.
Doping substances (e.g. clenbuterol, testosterone, nandrolone)
The import ban also applies to medically prescribed preparations containing these substances.
Imitations or counterfeits of approved medications
This also covers well-intentioned "substitute" medication from unauthorized sources.
Strictly Limited — Only with Documentation and in Minimal Quantities
Codeine-containing pain and cough medications
Classified as a controlled substance; permitted only with a medical diagnosis certificate, an ID document, and in a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Strong opioid painkillers
Same strict documentation and quantity requirements as codeine-containing medications.
Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam, lorazepam)
Classified as Category II psychotropic substances (a few, such as triazolam, are Category I); carrying them requires a medical diagnosis certificate and is limited to a small quantity matching personal use. See Medications A–Z for individual drugs.
ADHD stimulants (amphetamine-type medications, methylphenidate)
Amphetamine and methylphenidate are both classified as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. In practice this makes them very difficult to import even with documentation — see the ADHD medication section above for country-specific guidance. Always confirm directly with the Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling.
Caution with Cold Medications (Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine)
Combination cold medications containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine
Pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are classified in China as controlled precursor chemicals for methamphetamine under the Regulations on the Administration of Precursor Chemicals (2005, amended 2014/2016/2018). Bring pseudoephedrine-free alternatives instead — e.g. phenylephrine-based products or plain nasal sprays.
Examples: Codral (pseudoephedrine variants)
Absolutely Banned
Opium, morphine, heroin, and other classic narcotics
Banned without exception for personal import — regardless of quantity or purpose.
Cannabis, marijuana, and CBD products of any kind
Illegal throughout China even if the product is legally sold where you live.
Doping substances (e.g. clenbuterol, testosterone, nandrolone)
The import ban also applies to medically prescribed preparations containing these substances.
Imitations or counterfeits of approved medications
This also covers well-intentioned "substitute" medication from unauthorized sources.
Strictly Limited — Only with Documentation and in Minimal Quantities
Codeine-containing pain and cough medications
Classified as a controlled substance; permitted only with a medical diagnosis certificate, an ID document, and in a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Strong opioid painkillers
Same strict documentation and quantity requirements as codeine-containing medications.
Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam, lorazepam)
Classified as Category II psychotropic substances (a few, such as triazolam, are Category I); carrying them requires a medical diagnosis certificate and is limited to a small quantity matching personal use. See Medications A–Z for individual drugs.
ADHD stimulants (amphetamine-type medications, methylphenidate)
Amphetamine and methylphenidate are both classified as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. In practice this makes them very difficult to import even with documentation — see the ADHD medication section above for country-specific guidance. Always confirm directly with the Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling.
Caution with Cold Medications (Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine)
Combination cold medications containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine
Pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are classified in China as controlled precursor chemicals for methamphetamine under the Regulations on the Administration of Precursor Chemicals (2005, amended 2014/2016/2018). Bring pseudoephedrine-free alternatives instead — e.g. phenylephrine-based products or plain nasal sprays.
Absolutely Banned
Opium, morphine, heroin, and other classic narcotics
Banned without exception for personal import — regardless of quantity or purpose.
Cannabis, marijuana, and CBD products of any kind
Illegal throughout China even if the product is legally sold where you live.
Doping substances (e.g. clenbuterol, testosterone, nandrolone)
The import ban also applies to medically prescribed preparations containing these substances.
Imitations or counterfeits of approved medications
This also covers well-intentioned "substitute" medication from unauthorized sources.
Strictly Limited — Only with Documentation and in Minimal Quantities
Codeine-containing pain and cough medications
Classified as a controlled substance; permitted only with a medical diagnosis certificate, an ID document, and in a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Strong opioid painkillers
Same strict documentation and quantity requirements as codeine-containing medications.
Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam, lorazepam)
Classified as Category II psychotropic substances (a few, such as triazolam, are Category I); carrying them requires a medical diagnosis certificate and is limited to a small quantity matching personal use. See Medications A–Z for individual drugs.
ADHD stimulants (amphetamine-type medications, methylphenidate)
Amphetamine and methylphenidate are both classified as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. In practice this makes them very difficult to import even with documentation — see the ADHD medication section above for country-specific guidance. Always confirm directly with the Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling.
Caution with Cold Medications (Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine)
Combination cold medications containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine
Pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are classified in China as controlled precursor chemicals for methamphetamine under the Regulations on the Administration of Precursor Chemicals (2005, amended 2014/2016/2018). Bring pseudoephedrine-free alternatives instead — e.g. phenylephrine-based products or plain nasal sprays.
Absolutely Banned
Opium, morphine, heroin, and other classic narcotics
Banned without exception for personal import — regardless of quantity or purpose.
Cannabis, marijuana, and CBD products of any kind
Gilt auch für Produkte, die in Deutschland frei verkäuflich sind (z. B. CBD-Öl); in China durchgängig illegal.
Doping substances (e.g. clenbuterol, testosterone, nandrolone)
The import ban also applies to medically prescribed preparations containing these substances.
Imitations or counterfeits of approved medications
This also covers well-intentioned "substitute" medication from unauthorized sources.
Strictly Limited — Only with Documentation and in Minimal Quantities
Codeine-containing pain and cough medications
Classified as a controlled substance; permitted only with a medical diagnosis certificate, an ID document, and in a quantity limited to personal use (at most what a single prescription would cover).
Strong opioid painkillers
Same strict documentation and quantity requirements as codeine-containing medications.
Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam, lorazepam)
Classified as Category II psychotropic substances (a few, such as triazolam, are Category I); carrying them requires a medical diagnosis certificate and is limited to a small quantity matching personal use. See Medications A–Z for individual drugs.
ADHD stimulants (amphetamine-type medications, methylphenidate)
Amphetamine and methylphenidate are both classified as Category I psychotropic substances in China's national narcotics/psychotropics catalogue. In practice this makes them very difficult to import even with documentation — see the ADHD medication section above for country-specific guidance. Always confirm directly with the Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling.
Caution with Cold Medications (Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine)
Combination cold medications containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine
Pseudoephedrin und Ephedrin gelten in China als kontrollierte Vorläuferchemikalie für Methamphetamin (Verordnung zur Kontrolle von zur Drogenherstellung geeigneten Chemikalien, 2005, mehrfach novelliert). Statt Kombipräparaten pseudoephedrinfreie Alternativen (z. B. auf Phenylephrin-Basis oder reine Nasensprays) mitnehmen.
Examples: Aspirin Complex, Grippostad C, Wick MediNait
Shared sources (China customs/regulatory originals, applicable to all countries): PRC Customs Measures on the Supervision of Inbound and Outbound Baggage (GACC Order No. 276, effective 1 April 2025) — governs the "self-use, reasonable quantity" principle · Shanghai Municipal Government (English): how to bring psychotropic medications into China — diagnosis certificate, ID, and prescription-equivalent quantity limit · Chongqing Municipal Government (English): entry/exit FAQ, including medication rules · Regulations on the Administration of Precursor Chemicals Used in Drug Manufacture (State Council Order No. 445, 2005, amended 2014/2016/2018) — classifies ephedrine/pseudoephedrine as controlled precursor chemicals
FAQ
Are the recommended vaccinations mandatory for China?
No — except when entering from a yellow-fever-endemic country, there's no vaccination requirement for direct entry to China. The vaccinations on this page are recommendations from official sources for your country; which ones make sense for you depends on trip length, route, and personal medical history, and is worth discussing with a travel-medicine clinic.
Can I bring my regular ongoing medications (blood pressure, diabetes, etc.)?
Yes, for personal use in a quantity appropriate to your trip length. Keep it in its original packaging with the package insert, and bring a doctor's letter in English stating the active ingredient (not just the brand name) — the doctor's-letter generator on this page can help you put one together.
What about ADHD medication — Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, Concerta, Medikinet?
This is one of the most frequent questions on this page. Amphetamine and methylphenidate are both Category I psychotropic substances in China. There's a narrow, paperwork-heavy path for personal-use import, but it's inconsistently applied — see the ADHD section above for what's actually involved.
Why is an ordinary cold medication a problem?
It's not the cold medication itself, but pseudoephedrine or ephedrine: they can be processed into methamphetamine and are classified in China as controlled precursor chemicals. This affects various combination cold/flu products sold under different brand names in different countries — see the caution list and your own country's brand examples above. Plain nasal sprays or phenylephrine-based products (e.g. Sudafed PE) aren't affected.
Will my travel insurance or health card work in China?
For most of the countries covered here, no — GHIC/EHIC only work in the EU/EEA/Switzerland, Australia has no reciprocal healthcare agreement with China, and Germany's statutory insurance (GKV) doesn't cover treatment there either. See the insurance section for your country above; budget for paying up front at Chinese hospitals and claiming reimbursement afterward.
How accurate is the information on this page?
Every claim on this page links to the official source it came from, with a verification date — this page was last checked 2026-08-09. Where we couldn't find or verify an official source for something, we've said so instead of guessing.
