Is Hydrocodone Legal in Japan?
NCD permit required
Hydrocodone (Vicodin) requires a Narcotics Control Department (NCD) import permit before travel to Japan. The permit application must be submitted at least 14 days before arrival, supported by a doctor's letter listing your diagnosis, dosage, and trip length. Without the permit, Hydrocodone (Vicodin) is not allowed in Japan.
Japan status
Permit Required
Quantity threshold
Not applicable
Substance class
Narcotic
Why is Hydrocodone controlled in Japan?
Hydrocodone is a Schedule I narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law.
How to apply for the NCD import permit
- 1Apply for the NCD import permit at least 14 days before your arrival date.
- 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.
- 3Attach photos of original packaging showing drug name and strength.
- 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 applicationFrequently asked questions
Is Vicodin allowed in Japan?▼
Yes, with advance NCD import permission. Apply at least 14 days before travel. The acetaminophen component does not change the narcotic classification.
Related medications
Oxycodone is a Schedule I narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law. Personal use is allowed with advance NCD permission.
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.
Check your full travel kit
Hydrocodone is just one medication — most travelers carry several. Our free checker reviews your entire prescription list against Japan’s import rules.
Check all my medicationsSource: 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.