Codeine (Medication) 🇸🇬 Singapore
Controlled drug. Requires prior authorisation from HSA for amounts exceeding 3 days' supply.
Can I bring Codeine (Medication) into Singapore?
Controlled drug. Requires prior authorisation from HSA for amounts exceeding 3 days' supply.
Up to 3 days' supply without authorisation; longer supply requires HSA prior authorisation
- HSA prior authorisation letter
- Original prescription or dispensing label
- Original packaging
Required at the destination customs authority
Full details
Codeine is a controlled drug in Singapore under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Travellers may bring up to 3 days' worth of codeine-containing medication without prior authorisation. For stays longer than 3 days, a prior authorisation must be obtained from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) before entry. The application must be made online through the HSA portal. Medications must be carried in their original dispensed packaging with the patient's name, prescribing doctor, and dosage instructions. Over-the-counter codeine products from other countries are not exempt.
At the airport
- Codeine above specified quantity thresholds requires an HSA approval in Singapore. Obtain this via the HSA online portal (hsa.gov.sg) at least 10 working days before travel.
- At Changi Airport customs, proceed to the Red Channel or the Customs Health declaration desk and present: HSA approval, prescription, medication in original packaging.
- Small personal quantities (typically ≤ 30 days' supply) below the threshold may enter without a permit. Use the Green Channel and retain your prescription in case of spot inspection.
Permitted in transit. Singapore HSA guidelines allow transit passengers to carry personal-use quantities of codeine products (up to a 30-day supply) through Changi Airport provided they remain airside and do not pass through Singapore immigration. The medication must be in original packaging with accompanying prescription documentation.
Available. Singapore HSA/CNB accept voluntary surrender at port of entry for Class B controlled drugs. Declare at primary inspection. Surrender receipt issued. Proactive disclosure may avoid prosecution for personal-quantity importation.
Apply for HSA prior authorisation at least 10 working days before travel. Carry the authorisation letter at all times during your stay.
Up to 3 days' supply without authorisation; longer supply requires HSA prior authorisation
- HSA prior authorisation letter
- Original prescription or dispensing label
- Original packaging
Misuse of Drugs Act (Cap. 185); Misuse of Drugs Regulations
This page covers destination customs rules in Singapore. Whether you can carry codeine (medication) through security, in carry-on, or in checked baggage depends on airline and screening rules — see air travel rules.
Related rules
Codeine (Medication) rules in other countries
Codeine (Medication)
🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
Controlled narcotic. Must declare and carry a valid prescription and Ministry of Health permit.
Codeine (Medication)
🇯🇵 Japan
Requires a Yakkan Shoumei import certificate for quantities exceeding one month's supply.
Codeine (Medication)
🇦🇺 Australia
Prescription required since 2018
Codeine (Medication)
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Prescription-only since 2021 reclassification
Codeine (Medication)
🇩🇪 Germany
BtM prescription required
Codeine (Medication)
🇨🇦 Canada
Available OTC in low doses; prescription for higher