Traveling with Medicinal Cannabis: A Guide for New Zealand Patients
For patients prescribed medicinal cannabis in New Zealand, understanding the laws around travelling with your medication is crucial. Regulations vary widely between countries, so it’s essential to research and plan ahead to ensure you comply with the legal requirements of your destination.
Domestic Travel Within New Zealand
If you’re travelling domestically with medicinal cannabis in New Zealand, you must carry your prescription and the original packaging of the product. These documents confirm your legal right to possess the medication and should be readily available in case you are questioned by authorities.
International Travel
Traveling internationally with medicinal cannabis is more complex, as regulations differ significantly across countries. Below are guidelines for some common destinations, but always check with the relevant country’s authorities before travelling.
Australia
In Australia, you can legally carry medicinal cannabis prescribed in New Zealand, provided you have a valid travel letter from your prescribing doctor and your prescription. The medication must be in its original packaging and match the quantities outlined in your documentation. Refer to the Australian Government Department of Health’s medicinal cannabis hub for detailed requirements.
United States
The United States has a patchwork of state-specific cannabis laws. Federally, cannabis is classified as a Schedule I substance, making it illegal to bring any cannabis products into the country, regardless of your prescription. Some states, such as California, allow medicinal and recreational cannabis use legally.
Canada
Canada permits the use of medicinal cannabis for its residents but does not allow international visitors to bring cannabis products into the country, even with a prescription.
United Kingdom
In the UK, medicinal cannabis is legal under strict conditions. However, bringing prescribed cannabis from another country is not permitted.
European Union
Laws vary widely across EU member states. Some countries, like Germany and the Netherlands, have established medicinal cannabis programmes, but they may not accept prescriptions from New Zealand. Always research the specific country’s laws and consult their embassy or consulate for clarity. Start with the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction.
Asia
Many Asian countries have stringent anti-drug laws, with severe penalties for possession of cannabis, even medicinal. Countries like Japan, Singapore, and Indonesia do not permit any form of cannabis. Thailand has recently legalised medicinal cannabis but may have restrictions on foreign prescriptions. Verify with the destination country’s health authority before travelling.
Middle East
The Middle East generally enforces strict anti-drug laws, and possession of cannabis, even medicinal, can lead to severe penalties. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have a zero-tolerance policy. Avoid travelling with medicinal cannabis to these regions. More information can be sought from specific embassies.
South America
Some countries, such as Uruguay, have legalised cannabis, but this may not extend to foreign prescriptions. Laws vary widely across the continent, so check with the local authorities or consulate before travelling.
Preparing for Travel
- Obtain a Travel Letter: Request a travel letter from your prescribing clinic, such as CannaPlus+, outlining your prescription and the need for the medication.
- Research Destination Laws: Investigate the regulations of your destination country as well as any transit countries.
- Carry Proper Documentation: Keep your prescription, travel letter, and the medication’s original packaging with you at all times.
Final Thoughts
Travelling with medicinal cannabis requires careful planning and adherence to local laws. Patients prescribed medicinal cannabis can consult with their healthcare provider to ensure they have the necessary documentation and guidance. Always double-check the regulations of your destination to avoid complications.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Laws and regulations change regularly. It is the traveller’s responsibility to verify the legality of travelling with medicinal cannabis in their intended destination.
