Travelling with Medical Cannabis: What NZ Patients Need to Know

If you’ve incorporated medicinal cannabis into your health journey, you may be wondering what the laws and regulations are when travelling with your prescription medication. While it is legal in New Zealand, there are a few important things to consider before travelling with it, especially if you’re heading overseas.

Can You Travel with Cannabis?

Dr. Waseem Alzaher, our doctor and medicinal cannabis expert, advises:

“Travelling with medicinal cannabis around the world is tricky because each country has its own rules. So make sure you investigate your destination (and layover) laws thoroughly.”

Whether you’re off for a local getaway or an international holiday, understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential to avoid complications.

Domestic vs International Travel

Domestic Travel in New Zealand

Yes! You can travel within New Zealand with your medicinal cannabis prescription. However, you must follow the Ministry of Health’s guidelines to remain compliant:

• Your medication must be prescribed by a doctor
  
  
• Keep it in its original packaging with a pharmacy label
  
  
• Carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s letter
  
  
• Declare it on your passenger arrival card if required
  
  
• Quantity limits:
  
  
  • Up to 3 months’ supply for CBD-only products
    
    
  • Up to 1 month’s supply for other cannabis products
    
    

More details are available here: https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/regulation-health-and-disability-system/medicinal-cannabis-agency/medicinal-cannabis-agency-information-consumers⁴

You may also wish to check with your airline ahead of your trip.

Travelling to Australia

You may be able to travel to Australia with your prescription, provided you meet their requirements under the Customs (Prohibited Import) Regulations 1956.

You must carry:

• A copy of your prescription
  
  
• A letter from your prescribing doctor
  
  
• Your medication in the original labelled packaging
  
  

You can bring up to 3 months’ supply if it was prescribed and dispensed by a pharmacy⁵. For the most current guidance, contact the Australian embassy or visit: https://www.odc.gov.au/medicinal-cannabis-importation-and-travellers-exemption⁵

Travelling Internationally

International travel is where things become more complex. Even if you are legally prescribed medicinal cannabis in New Zealand, many countries make no distinction between medicinal and recreational use.

Before travelling overseas:

• Research cannabis laws for your destination and any countries you’ll transit through
  
  
• Contact the embassy of your destination to confirm legal status
  
  
• Speak to your airline about their policy
  
  
• Prepare supporting documents:
  
  
  • Original packaging with pharmacy label
    
    
  • Doctor’s letter stating you’re prescribed medicinal cannabis
    
    
  • A copy of your prescription
    
    

A general list of countries with legal access can be found here

Laws change frequently. Always confirm through an embassy. When in doubt, leave your medication at home and discuss options with your doctor.

Medicinal Cannabis Travel Checklist

Here’s what to prepare before you fly:

• Original labelled packaging from your pharmacy
  
• Copy of your prescription
  
• Doctor’s letter outlining your treatment
  
• Country-specific documentation if needed
  
• Knowledge of quantity limits for your destination
  
• Declaration (if required by customs)
  

FAQs: Medicinal Cannabis & Travel

Can I take CBD oil on a plane?
Yes, if it’s prescribed and documented. Be sure to check airline policies and the destination’s laws⁴.

Can I carry THC-based products internationally?
Some countries allow it with proper authorisation. However, many still prohibit THC products outright. Always check with the embassy⁵.

What if I forget my doctor’s letter?
This could lead to confiscation, fines, or being refused entry. Always bring complete documentation⁴.

Talk to Our Team Before You Travel

If you’re unsure about your destination or the steps involved, we’re here to help.

Book a consultation here

Our team can support you in preparing the right documents and give you peace of mind before your trip.

Disclaimer

Medicinal cannabis and CBD oil are unapproved medicines in New Zealand. This article is for educational purposes only and does not suggest that cannabis can treat or cure any medical condition. Always consult your doctor before changing your treatment plan.

References

1. https://cannabishealthnews.co.uk/2022/06/07/story22-travel-abroad-medical-cannabis-prescription/
2. https://www.ukmccs.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Medical-Cannabis_-Frequently-asked-questions-2.pdf
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_cannabis_by_country
4. https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/regulation-health-and-disability-system/medicinal-cannabis-agency/medicinal-cannabis-agency-information-consumers
5. https://www.odc.gov.au/medicinal-cannabis-importation-and-travellers-exemption

Do you have questions about travelling with your medicinal cannabis prescription?

Talk to our friendly team at Cannabis Clinic to learn more.  

Disclaimer – medicinal cannabis and CBD oil are unapproved medicines in NZ which means that there is no conclusive evidence for their effect, apart from Sativex. Many doctors do not routinely prescribe cannabis medicines. The above article was written for general educational purposes and does not intend to suggest that medicinal cannabis can be used to treat any health condition. Please consult with your healthcare provider.