Q and A

Question

Do I need a letter to travel with ARVs?

I am travelling to France at the end of the month – will I need a letter from the hospital for when I travel with my meds in case there are any problems at airport security/immigration?

Answer

There are no travel restrictions for HIV positive people traveling to France. Generally, customs regulations require people entering with prescription medication like antiretroviral drugs to carry a doctor’s certificate, stating that the drugs are required to treat a personal condition. This requirement applies to all prescription drugs, not just HIV treatment.

Medication should always be carried in hand luggage, as checked luggage may be delayed or get lost. If you are carrying-on liquid medication exceeding 3 ounces / 100 ml, you must declare it at the checkpoint for inspection.

46 comments

  1. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Shelton, yes you will need a doctors prescription/note detailing this is your medication.

  2. Shelton

    I am travelling to UK at the end of the month – will I need a letter from the hospital for when I travel with my meds in case there are any problems at airport security/immigration?

  3. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Mitch, there are no disclosure requirements for those living with HIV. Carrying a letter will help identify that your medication is for personal use – this would need to be signed by a doctor.

  4. Mitch

    Hi, traveling to India and will be there for one year, do I need a later for taking ART drugs?
    Kind regards

  5. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Deepti, this is something you should be able to do. It is best to travel with a doctors note so if asked you can explain that they are for personal use. If declaring your status, Israel can choose to deny entry.

    Have you contacted your local Israeli embassy? You can clarify what their policy is for admission with medication. It is best to do this anonymously to avoid making yourself known.

  6. Deepti

    Hi. Can i carry my ARV pills to Israel? Please answer.

  7. Lisa Thorley

    Hi Samuel,

    Info on Cyprus can be found here: https://www.hivtravel.org/Default.aspx?PageId=143&CountryId=56 Unless you’re an EU citizen it’s very possible you won’t be able to study in Cyprus, nor access ARVs. You’ll need to contact your nearest Cypriot embassy for more info.

  8. samuel

    Please I am to travel to North cyprus for studies. Can I travel with my meds? And also, can I access my HIV medicine there?

  9. Roy Trevelion

    Hi Omar,

    Thanks for this comment. I’ll contact you at your own email address.

  10. Omar

    Please I am in north Cyprus and my meds are finished. There’s stigmatization against PLWHIV here so I am not able to hey my drugs. What can I do

Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *