Location: Kuwait, countrywide
Event: All travelers must receive government permission to carry certain prescription drugs before arriving in Kuwait. This includes many common prescription medications for pain, anxiety, and ADHD. You may need to obtain this special permission from the government of Kuwait before departing the United States or starting your trip to Kuwait.
If you arrive in Kuwait carrying certain prescription drugs without this permission, police may detain you and may confiscate the medication.
Visit the embassy of Kuwait’s website for the full list of prescription drugs and the government of Kuwait’s guidance.
Common Prescriptions Requiring Certification May Include:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Adderall (Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine)
- Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (e.g., Vicodin)
- Zolpidem (Ambien)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Codeine-containing medications
- Pregabalin (Lyrica)
- Tramadol (Ultram)
- Gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
This list is for information only, is subject to change, and not inclusive of all drugs restricted by Kuwaiti law. If you bring medications, you are responsible for
ensuring whether they meet the requirements and must allow sufficient time for review and certification prior to travel.
Under the new rule, all travelers to Kuwait bringing in certain prescription drugs must obtain advance written or electronic clearance from Kuwaiti officials abroad before boarding a flight to Kuwait. For more information about this process, you should contact the nearest Kuwaiti Embassy or Consulate at http://www.kuwaitembassy.us/ or http://www.kuwaitconsulate.org/ .
Once travelers receive clearance to bring medication, they may bring a supply for either 15 or 30 days, depending on the medication. All certifications must be submitted to Kuwaiti Customs officials upon arrival in Kuwait.
Failure to certify prescriptions or possession of quantities greater than the maximum amount allowed may result in the traveler being detained and medication confiscated in accordance with Kuwaiti law.
Actions to Take:
- Remember that U.S. citizens in Kuwait are subject to Kuwaiti law, even if your medications are legally prescribed in the U.S. or other country.
- Research the new law and register your medications with Kuwaiti authorities before travelling into or out of Kuwait.
- Monitor local and international media for the latest developments.
- Follow the instructions of your doctors and local authorities.
- Check with the Kuwaiti embassy in Washington, D.C., for any restrictions on the medications you take.
- Follow all local laws in Kuwait.
- Monitor local and international media for updates.
- Before you travel, ask your doctor for advice.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Kuwait
Plot No.14, Block 6, Masjed Al-Aqsa Street, Kuwait
+965-2259-1001
KuwaitACS@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
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