Need to Bring Medications to Japan? Here’s How to Apply for Your Permit
When we moved to Japan for nearly a year, there were a few things we had to check off our list before saying goodbye to the comfort of home. We sorted out all the paperwork at the embassy, completed the Japan immigration web pre-check, and were all set for our adventure. But then came something that nearly no one talks about: What do you do if you're carrying medication that lasts for more than a month?
We found ourselves struggling to get the right information on this, and it wasn’t until we were deep into the process that we figured out what needed to be done. So, we created this guide to help anyone in the same situation. Hopefully, it’ll make the process much easier for you!
Do You Need to Apply for a Medicine Import Permit?
If you're bringing more than a month's supply of medication into Japan (or if you're traveling with syringes), you're required to apply for an import certificate called Yunyu Kakunin-sho. This certificate ensures that your medication is cleared for entry into the country and avoids any issues with customs. We recommend you do it at least 2 weeks in advance since it might take you a few tries (hopefully not, especially with the help of our guide).
Step-by-Step Process for Applying for the Yunyu Kakunin-sho
1. Create an Account
First things first, head over to the official Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) website to submit your application. The website you’ll use to request the Yunyu Kakunin-sho is here.
Once you’re on the site, create an account. You'll be asked to provide your basic details such as name, email, and address. After entering your information, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to activate your account. It’s quick and easy, so make sure you have access to your email!
2. Selecting the Right Application Option
When prompted, select Personal use for the purpose of the application. Then choose the Application by Applicant option.
3. Fill in Your Personal Details
After logging in, you’ll need to fill in additional details. These include:
Your home address
Your flight number
The hotel you’ll be staying at in Japan (if you know the details)
The airport where you’ll be entering Japan and the date
Having all these details on hand before starting your application will make the process much smoother. You’ll also need to upload a copy of your ID (passport or residence card).
4. Prescription Requirements
Here’s the most important part: You must have your doctor’s prescription in English. This is non-negotiable—if your prescription is not in English, your application will be rejected.
In the event that your prescription isn’t already in English, don’t worry! You can translate it yourself, that is perfectly acceptable. Just make sure the information is clear and legible.
5. Provide Details About Your Medication
Now, you’ll need to provide specific details about your medication, so be sure to have everything on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to enter:
Medicine Name: The full name of the medication you’re bringing.
What It’s For: Be prepared to specify the medical purpose of the medication, such as the condition it's used to treat.
Quantity: This needs to match the quantity specified on your doctor’s prescription, so double-check this to avoid any issues.
You’ll also need to provide details such as:
Chemical Name or Active Ingredients: If your medication is a pharmaceutical, select the correct entry from the pull-down list. If it falls under a different category (non-pharmaceutical), choose Other and enter the accepted name.
Manufacturer: The name of the manufacturer of the medication.
Country of Origin: Enter the country where the product is made. Start typing part of the country name, and the system will provide options for you to choose from.
6. Specify the Intended Purpose
Next, you’ll need to select the intended purpose of your medication from a drop-down list. For most pharmaceuticals, this will likely be an option related to medical use (e.g., treatment of a specific condition like hair loss). If the available options don't quite match, you can select "Other" and briefly enter the intended purpose in 20 characters or less.
You will also need to fill in the specific intended purpose (efficacy) of your medication. This refers to a brief description of what the medication does or how it helps with your health condition. For example, "pain relief" or "antibiotic treatment."
7. Provide Medication Specifications
For pharmaceuticals, you’ll need to provide further details about the dosage form of the medicine (e.g., tablet, liquid, injection, etc.). If you're bringing a medical device or regenerative medicine product, you'll need to enter information specific to those items, like their structure or intended use.
8. Extra Help and Troubleshooting
If you run into any questions or need more guidance during the application process, don’t hesitate to check out the MHLW's detailed FAQ page for additional help. You can find it here.
This is a great resource if you have any uncertainties about the form or specific requirements.
9. Final Steps
Once you’ve completed your application, you’ll receive the Yunyu Kakunin-sho (import certificate) through email. Make sure to print a copy of this document and carry it with you when you travel to Japan. You’ll present it at customs upon arrival.
Navigating the Yunyu Kakunin-sho application process might seem like an extra step in an already busy travel prep, but it's an essential one for ensuring that your medications are cleared for entry into Japan. By gathering your details, carefully following the instructions, and double-checking everything, you can avoid any surprises at customs and enjoy a smooth arrival.
While the process may feel a little overwhelming at first, knowing what to expect can make it much easier. We hope this guide helps take the stress out of the paperwork, so you can focus on what truly matters—your journey and the exciting experiences waiting for you in Japan!
