A few years ago, my partner and I were traveling to the U.S. by way of Japan. We planned to spend a few weeks in Japan, and then a few months in the U.S. My partner has ADHD, and takes prescription medications for it.
Japan has very strict laws on prescription drugs. Some meds aren't allowed at all; other require a permit. In my partner's case, they could only take a 30-day supply, which wouldn't be enough for the entire trip. The solution? Bring a 2-week supply to Japan, and send the rest to the U.S. by mail, which — as long as it included a doctor's note and message to Customs — was perfectly legal.
As a digital nomad with ADHD, traveling with medication can be complicated. You need your medication to get work done, but your meds may not be allowed in your destination country. Even if they are, you may not be able to get enough for an extended stay or refill them at a local pharmacy.
Here's what to know about traveling with ADHD medication as a digital nomad, including which countries require you to apply for a permit in advance.
