Can I bring Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication to Vietnam?
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication→Vietnam
⚠️ Allowed with Conditions
About Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication
When carrying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication abroad, ensuring compliance is key. As medication or essential medical supply, Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication may face strict scrutiny at the border. Understanding quarantine requirements helps you carry it safely and legally. 💡 Tip: Keep medication in original packaging and carry an English copy of your doctor's prescription.
General Rules Apply
We don't have specific rules for Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication yet. Below are the general rules for Prescription Medication that apply to Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication.
✅ Declaration Requirements
✅Required
📌 Quick Summary
🔗 Official Information Source:
Last Updated:October 14, 2026
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📝 Important Notes
- •⚠️ CONDITIONAL — Allowed with Documentation
- •Medication for personal use is generally allowed in Vietnam with proper documentation.
- •Allowed Medications:
- •Over-the-counter medications (paracetamol, ibuprofen, antihistamines, etc.)
- •Prescription medications with doctor's letter and original prescription
- •No import permit is needed for medicines other than narcotic, psychotropic and precursor drugs when any one of these applies: up to 30 days' supply at the prescribed dose; or a customs value of up to US$200 per time, at most 3 times a year (for illnesses on the serious-illness list in Decree 134/2016/ND-CP: up to VND 10 million per time, at most 4 times a year); amounts beyond these conditions require an import permit
- •Must be in original packaging with labels
- •Restricted/Controlled Medications:
- •Narcotic drugs up to 7 days' supply, and psychotropic and precursor drugs up to 10 days' supply, at the dose on the accompanying prescription, need no import permit; larger amounts require an import permit
- •Codeine-containing medications: allowed in small quantities with prescription
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a translated doctor's prescription for Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication?
While not mandatory in all countries, to avoid delays, it's recommended to carry an English translation of your prescription or a doctor's letter, and ensure Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication is kept in its original packaging with labels.
What should I consider when bringing Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication?
The most important thing when bringing Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication is to confirm if it exceeds the duty-free allowance or declaration threshold of your destination. It's recommended to keep purchase receipts and ensure Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication is in its original packaging for easier customs inspection. If the Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication is of high value, always use the red declaration channel.
❓ More Questions
Can I bring prescription medication to Vietnam?
Yes, with proper documentation: original prescription, doctor's letter, medication in original packaging. No import permit is needed for narcotic drugs up to 7 days' supply, psychotropic and precursor drugs up to 10 days' supply, or other medicines up to 30 days' supply at the prescribed dose; other medicines are also permit-free if worth up to US$200 per time, at most 3 times a year (illnesses on the serious-illness list in Decree 134/2016/ND-CP: up to VND 10 million per time, at most 4 times a year). Amounts beyond these conditions need an import permit. Keep a list of medications with generic names in English.
Is CBD oil legal in Vietnam?
NO. CBD and all cannabis-derived products are ILLEGAL in Vietnam. Penalties are severe, including imprisonment. Do NOT bring any CBD products to Vietnam.
Can I buy medication in Vietnam without a prescription?
Many medications that require prescriptions in Western countries are available over-the-counter in Vietnamese pharmacies, including antibiotics, some painkillers, and basic medications. Prices are very affordable. However, quality varies — buy from reputable pharmacies.
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