Permit RequiredNarcotic · Tapentadol

Is Tapentadol Legal in Japan?

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

NCD permit required

Tapentadol (Nucynta) 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, Tapentadol (Nucynta) is not allowed in Japan.

Japan status

Permit Required

Quantity threshold

Not applicable

Substance class

Narcotic

Why is Tapentadol controlled in Japan?

Tapentadol is a Schedule I 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

Is Nucynta allowed in Japan?▼

Yes, with an NCD import permit. Tapentadol is classified as a narcotic in Japan despite its lower abuse potential profile in some other countries.

Related medications

OxycodonePermit Required

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

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

Tapentadol 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.