How to Translate Prescriptions (& Doctor’s Letters) for Customs

Medication rules don’t travel with you. What sails through TSA in New York can prompt extra questions in Tokyo, Saudi Arabia, or at some European borders. Customs agents at these and other strict locations listed below tend to look closely at your medical documents and expect the information in their own language.

This means you’ll want to translate prescriptions or doctor’s letters that show the generic name of the medication, the dose, and why you take it.

Below, I’ll show you the simplest way to prepare your prescription/medical letter translation, whether you need to get one, and where to go to find a reputable translator.

Unsure what customs actually allows (and the exact words to use at screening)? Be sure to read my comprehensive guide: Flying with Medication: TSA and Customs Rules for 2025.

1. Translate Prescriptions/Doctor’s Letter for These Destinations

You won’t be asked for a translation at most borders. But in these stricter parts of the world, it’s either required or very strongly recommended by customs officials for certain medications–eg., controlled meds like Ambien, Ritalin, etc., and narcotics like oxycodone, and having a translation speeds up inspections enough to be worth it:

• Middle East (Gulf): Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait
• North Africa: Egypt
• East Asia: China, Japan, South Korea
• Southeast Asia: Singapore, Indonesia

🔺 If you skip the paperwork in these places, outcomes range from confiscation of your meds to fines or detention—especially for controlled drugs. A one-page translated prescription or a doctor’s letter is simple “travel insurance” for your medication. For any itinerary that includes the countries above, treat it as standard packing—not optional.

⚠️ Permits: If you are carrying controlled medicines anywhere, including in parts of Europe, permits/certificates may also be required. Always confirm with the destination’s embassy/consulate in the U.S.

Unsure whether your medication could be challenged? Read Can Customs Take Your Medication? Avoid Issues Abroad

1.1 What Customs Officers Need to See

You can carry a translated one-page prescription listing all your medications, but customs agents love details– a translated doctor’s letter that includes the following:

• Your full name exactly as on your passport
• Medication details: generic name first, then brand name in parentheses; strength, dose, and frequency
• Quantity and days of supply you’re carrying
• Your prescriber’s name, clinic, phone/email, signature
• Plain-language purpose (e.g., “for blood pressure”)
• Continuation of use: That you must continue the medication for the duration of your trip
• Translation language: the destination language, with an English copy behind it

KEEN TIP: Put generic (INN) names first. Brands change by country; generics don’t. This helps officers—and overseas pharmacists—verify fast if you need a refill.

When you’re ready to pack the meds and paperwork, see How to Pack Medication for Air Travel Internationally for step-by-step packing, organizers, cooling, and labeling.

1.2 Do you need “certified,” “sworn,” or “notarized”?

If an embassy or health ministry says “official/authorized translation,” book a certified (or sworn, where applicable) translator. Again, go to usembassy.gov to see if your destination requires this.

Certified translation (common in the U.S.): The translator signs a statement that the translation is accurate. It’s widely accepted for official paperwork. Find a certified translator.

KEEN TIP: Certified is different from Notarized; Notarized confirms the identity of the signer, not the content.

2. Step-by-Step: Get your Translation Done Right

Step 1 — Ask your doctor for a clean letter + script

Request a short typed letter on clinic letterhead listing each medication’s generic name, dosing specifics, and indication, plus your days of supply. Have them sign it and add contact info.

KEEN TIP: One page per traveler saves time and questions.

Step 2 — Choose your translation method

• Certified medical translator (best for controlled meds or complex regimens). Find vetted pros in the ATA Language Services Directory (U.S.)

Step 3 — Ensure content is easy to read

Email your translator typed text, not a photo of the letter. Expand abbreviations (“twice daily” instead of “BID”). Make sure your name matches your passport.

Step 4 — Ask for the right output

Request PDF + one printed copy, 12–14 pt font, high contrast, clear headings. Put generic names in bold.

Step 5 — Attach the certificate (if needed)

Ask your translator to add a certificate of accuracy page with their name, credentials, date, and signature. (ATA provides sample wording that many translators use.)

Step 6 — Pack the papers together

Clip the translation on top of the original prescription and your doctor’s letter. Keep a printed set in your carry-on and a PDF on your phone.

KEEN TIP: For injectables or chilled meds, include storage notes like “store at 2–8 °C” in the translation. Declare ice packs and liquids at screening; they’re allowed in reasonable quantities when you tell the officer.

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

3.1 Do I really need a translation for every trip?

Absolutely not—but it speeds up checks and prevents detainments in countries that are strict about medications coming across their borders. At the very least, a doctor’s letter in English listing generic names, doses, and indications is specifically recommended by CDC travel guidance.

3.2 Can’t I just get my letter notarized?

No. If you check your destination with their embassy here in the US and they state that you need a certified or authorized prescription or medical letter, that means it must be certified. Certification is the translator’s signed accuracy statement. Notarization just verifies the signer’s identity and is only useful if an authority requires it.

3.3 Can I bring liquid meds over 3.4 oz/100 mL?

Yes. TSA and customs allow medically necessary liquids in reasonable quantities once you declare them for screening. Keep them separate and be ready for extra screening and carry a doctor’s letter.

3.4 What proof does U.S. Customs expect?

Carry medications in original containers, plus your prescription and/or a doctor’s letter showing they’re for personal use. That’s consistent with Customs and Border Protection guidance.

4. Wrap Up

Clarity at the customs checkpoint is the goal.

Put generic names first, match quantities to your trip, and keep the translation, original prescription, and doctor’s letter clipped together.

If your route includes stricter stops—Saudi Arabia, Japan, or parts of Europe—choose a certified/sworn translator and carry both paper and a PDF.

Do those steps, and you turn a potential delay into a quick verification. Pack once, travel confident.