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Northreach Society

COMING INTO CANADA

It is important to note, if you are coming into Canada with medication, of any kind, there are rules to adhere to. This is especially important when taking antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of HIV, as going without for extended periods of time can have severe impacts on health. Planning ahead is critical.

There is a description of what is permitted here. 

To summarize travelling to Canada:

  • A single course or up to 90 days of medicine is allowed to enter Canada with the person it is prescribed for
  • Medicine must be in its original bottle/packaging with the person’s name matching the passport name of carrier, have a matching prescription copy with it
  • Medication must meet Canadian Health Regulation Standards and be legal in Canada

Importing medicine into Canada:

  • Maximum of 90 days worth of medicine
  • Must be in original bottle/packaging, with original pharmacy label
  • Name of prescription must match the name of the importer and the prescription must accompany the medication
  • Medication must be for personal use
  • Proof as to why the medication is being mailed is required, letter from the prescribing Doctor included. (It is important to note Visitor Visa recipients are NOT eligible for provincial or federal healthcare in Canada, therefore medications under these visas are NOT covered.)
  • All documents must be provided in English or French
  • If medication is part of a clinical trial, proof of person’s enrollment in trial must be included.

If you plan to travel abroad, it is important to know the rules and regulations of your destination, especially for carrying medications and disclosing personal medical information.

Unfortunately, due to stigma and misinformation, not all countries allow those with HIV to visit, and some only allow temporary visits. Www.hivtravel.org/ is a great resource, as well as http://www.aidsmap.com/Travel-restrictions/page/1504507/.

While these guides are good starting points, it is always best to look directly at official travel restrictions put forth by the country you intend to visit, as sometimes things change.