Permit RequiredNarcotic · Codeine

Is Codeine Legal in Japan?

Reviewed by Dr. Lo and Dr. Lee (PharmD)·Last updated

NCD permit required

Codeine products containing more than 1% codeine require an NCD import permit in Japan. Products containing ≤1% codeine (most prescription cough syrups and Tylenol #3 in some formulations) are excluded from narcotic controls but should still be carried in original packaging with a doctor's letter.

Japan status

Permit Required

Quantity threshold

Not applicable

Substance class

Narcotic

Why is Codeine controlled in Japan?

Codeine is a Schedule I narcotic. Japan's law explicitly excludes products containing ≤1% codeine — but this threshold is concentration-based, not dose-based, so check the product carefully.

How to apply for the NCD import permit

  1. 1Apply for the NCD import permit at least 14 days before your arrival date.
  2. 2Doctor's letter (dated within 3 months) must list: your full name, diagnosis, medical necessity, drug name, strength, daily dose, and the prescribing doctor's signature.
  3. 3Attach photos of original packaging showing drug name and strength.
  4. 4You must carry the import certificate with you and present it at customs — not in checked baggage.

Application form: Submit through the Japan Narcotics Control Department (NCD).

NCD import permit application

Frequently asked questions

Is Tylenol with Codeine allowed in Japan?▼

Tylenol #3 contains 30 mg codeine per 300 mg acetaminophen tablet — about 9% codeine, well above the 1% exclusion threshold. It requires an NCD permit.

What about cough syrups with codeine?▼

Many US prescription cough syrups (e.g., Promethazine with Codeine) exceed 1% codeine and require an NCD permit. OTC cough preparations sold in Japan typically contain dihydrocodeine instead.

Related medications

HydrocodonePermit Required

Hydrocodone is a Schedule I narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law.

MorphinePermit Required

Morphine is a Schedule I narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law. Personal use is allowed with advance NCD permission.

Check your full travel kit

Codeine is just one medication — most travelers carry several. Our free checker reviews your entire prescription list against Japan’s import rules.

Check all my medications

Source: MHLW Narcotics Control Department — Controlled Substances List (12 Dec 2024). Page last reviewed 2026-05-31 by Dr. Lo and Dr. Lee (PharmD). Regulations change — verify with the MHLW Narcotics Control Department before travel. This page is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your prescribing physician or from a Japanese customs authority.