Codeine (Medication) → Canada

Available OTC in low doses; prescription for higher

Details

Canada is one of the few countries where low-dose codeine (8mg per tablet) remains available over-the-counter when combined with other analgesics. Travelers can bring personal codeine supplies freely. Higher-dose codeine (30mg+) is prescription-only. No special documentation required for personal use quantities.

Quantity limit

Personal use

Documentation required

• Original prescription from licensed physician (for prescription-strength formulations)
• Medication in original pharmacy-labelled packaging

Legal reference

Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, Narcotic Control Regulations

Leaving with this item

Codeine (opioid analgesic) is a controlled substance subject to personal-export limits when leaving Canada.

Practical advice

No special procedure is required for personal quantities of codeine (medication) arriving in Canada. Quantities above duty-free allowances must still be declared. Verify current limits with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Customs authority

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) · https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca