Permit RequiredNarcotic · Ketamine

Is Spravato Legal in Japan?

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

NCD permit required

Spravato contains Ketamine and 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. Spravato cannot be brought into Japan with just a foreign prescription.

Japan status

Permit Required

Quantity threshold

Not applicable

Substance class

Narcotic

Why is Spravato controlled in Japan?

Ketamine is classified as a narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law.

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

Can I bring Spravato for depression to Japan?▼

Spravato (esketamine) administration in the US is typically clinic-supervised, not take-home. If you have take-home doses, you need an NCD permit. Coordinate with your prescriber and consider a treatment gap rather than travel.

Related medications

KetaminePermit Required

Ketamine is classified as a 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

Spravato 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.