Particular caution should be exercised by people using medical marijuana.
What documents may be needed when travelling?
In Schengen Area countries, transporting medicines containing narcotic drugs generally requires a certificate compliant with Article 75 of the Convention Implementing the Schengen Agreement, confirmed by the competent pharmaceutical authority. The document is issued for a specific journey and may generally cover a maximum of 30 days of treatment.
Outside the Schengen Area, other requirements may apply, including a medical certificate in English, approval from the competent authority or confirmation obtained from an embassy. Some countries completely prohibit the import of certain substances. Before departure, it is advisable to consult the treating physician or the facility providing the therapy, such as Klinika Medycznej Marihuany MedCan Clinics, and to check the current requirements of the destination country and transit countries.
Why do regulations differ between countries?
Each country independently determines the rules governing the transport and possession of medicines containing controlled substances. The fact that a preparation was legally prescribed and may be used in Poland does not automatically mean that it can be brought into every other country.
The regulations in transit countries are also important. If a journey includes a transfer or passage through another country, it is necessary to ensure that transporting the medicine is permitted there.
Required documents should be carried in their original form. It is also advisable to keep electronic copies, for example on a phone; however, they may not replace paper documents required by the competent authorities.
What should you remember before travelling?
The quantity of medicine transported should correspond to the planned treatment period during the journey and comply with the medical documentation and the contents of the certificate obtained. Do not transport more of the preparation than is indicated by the documents and the patient’s actual needs.
It is advisable to begin the formalities sufficiently in advance. Obtaining a certificate, official confirmation or a response from an embassy may take time, especially during periods of increased travel.
Regulations concerning controlled medicines may change. Therefore, before every journey, check the current requirements again, even if the patient has previously visited the same country with the same medicine.
The prescription of medical marijuana in accordance with Polish law does not automatically mean that it can be brought into every country. Before departure, check the regulations of the destination country and transit countries, and obtain all required documents and approvals. This can help reduce the risk of the medicine being detained, entry being refused or other legal consequences.