Importing Medicines into Japan

Overview

• Understand the regulations for importing medicines into Japan, whether bringing them personally or sending them.
• Specific procedures are required depending on the type and quantity of the medicine.

Regulations for Bringing Medicines

Bringing Prescription Medicines

• No special procedure is needed if:
  • The medicine is for personal use.
  • It is not prohibited in Japan (e.g., Methamphetamine).
  • It is not a controlled drug in Japan (e.g., Narcotics).
  • The quantity does not exceed a one-month supply.
  • Psychotropic drugs cannot be sent.

More Than One-Month Supply

• Requires a Yunyu Kakunin-sho, an import certificate.

Bringing Injections and Injectors

• Permissible self-injections (e.g., insulin): No Yunyu Kakunin-sho needed for less than a month supply.
• Bringing syringes only requires a Yunyu Kakunin-sho.

Obtaining Yunyu Kakunin-sho

Application Process

• Submit documents by Email, or by post/FAX if unavailable.
• Once approved by a Pharmaceutical Inspector, the certificate is sent via Email.

Required Documents

1. Import Confirmation Application Form (2 copies).
2. Explanation of Product (for each item).
3. Copy of Prescription with the prescribing doctor's name.
4. Document Indicating Arrival Date and Place (e.g., airline ticket).
5. Return Envelope with Japanese Postal Stamps for postal submission.

If Application is Rejected

• Inspector may request additional documents.
• Provide contact information for faster communication.

Handling Yunyu Kakunin-sho

• Must be shown to Customs in Japan.
• Valid only if contents match the certificate.
• Any alteration invalidates it.

Timing

• Issued in a few business days (excluding weekends and holidays).

Sending Medicines

Process

• Send medicines to your staying place in Japan first.
• If held at Customs, follow instructions after contacting the relevant office.
• Required documents are similar but include additional postal service documents like Invoice or Custom notice.

Contact Information

• Kanto-Shinetsu Regional Bureau (Narita, Haneda Airports)
  • TEL: +81-48-740-0800
  • Email: [email protected]
• Kinki Regional Bureau (Kansai, Chubu Airports)
  • TEL: +81-6-6942-4096
  • Email: [email protected]

Additional Notes

• Contact a Pharmaceutical Inspector for further queries, providing detailed information on the medicines and arrival plans.