Taking codeine (medication) out of Vietnam

Details

Codeine-containing medications are controlled substances under the Penal Code Art. 249-252; Law on Customs 54/2014 framework. Personal-use quantities accompanied by the prescription and pharmacist dispensing label are generally permitted for export. Codeine-combination cough and cold products may be over-the-counter in some jurisdictions but still controlled for cross-border movement above threshold quantities. Personal export above the standard personal-use limit requires a Drug Administration of Vietnam (MoH) authorisation.

Quantity limits

Personal-use quantity in original packaging with prescription label

Documentation required

• Prescription or pharmacist dispensing label
• Doctor's letter for continued treatment
• Drug Administration of Vietnam (MoH) authorisation (if above personal-use)

The other direction

Sources

• customs.gov.vn
• customs.gov.vn
• moh.gov.vn