Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card

Codeine (Medication) → United Kingdom

Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-04-25

RESTRICTED

Prescription-only since 2021 reclassification

Details

Codeine was reclassified from pharmacy-only to prescription-only in the UK in 2021 for formulations above 12.8mg per dose. Travelers may bring personal supplies with a valid prescription. Co-codamol (codeine + paracetamol) is the most common UK codeine product.

Quantity limit

3 months supply

Documentation required

Valid prescription
Original pharmacy packaging

Legal reference

Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, Human Medicines Regulations 2012

Practical advice

Declare codeine (medication) at customs on arrival in United Kingdom and carry any documentation specified in the rule. Verify current requirements with His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) before travel.

Customs authority

His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) · https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs