Drugs and Travel: Do’s and Don’ts

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Some drugs that are legal in Canada are illegal in other countries. You are subject to the judicial system of every country you visit, and it is your responsibility to know about the drug laws before you go. To make the most of your travels and avoid drug-related problems abroad, keep in mind the following do’s and don’ts:

DO…

• Find out if your prescription medications are legal in the countries you plan to visit. Keep all medications in their original, labelled containers. Carry a note from your doctor clearly explaining the medical reasons for your prescriptions. If syringes are needed, have a medical certificate stating their use.
• Pack your luggage yourself and never leave it unattended.
• Keep an eye on your children’s backpacks, toys and stuffed animals. Someone could secretly slip drugs inside.
• Choose your travel companions wisely. Never cross a border with a hitchhiker or as a hitchhiker. If your fellow travellers happen to be carrying, using or selling illegal drugs, you could be found guilty by association.
• Find out if certain areas are unsafe by inquiring with local authorities, a travel agent or hotel staff. You could suddenly find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Always have an up-to-date map with you.

DON’T…

• Be fooled into smuggling drugs in exchange for money or a free vacation. Many Canadians are currently serving drug-related sentences abroad, often in deplorable conditions. In some countries, drug convictions carry the death penalty.
• Carry parcels, gifts or luggage for other people across borders or through customs under any circumstances.
• Give in to the temptation to use drugs. While illegal drugs are readily available and openly used in many countries, the fact remains—they are dangerous and illegal. Involvement with narcotics could put your health at risk and jeopardize your whole future.

For more information, consult the Drugs and Travel section of our website. Or contact the Consular Affairs Bureau of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada by telephone (1-800-267-6788 or 613-944-6788), TTY (1-800-394-3472 or 613-944-1310) or e-mail (voyage@international.gc.ca).

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Consular Services

Consular Affairs Bureau
www.voyage.gc.ca

General
Tel.: 1-800-267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-6788
TTY: 1-800-394-3472 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-1310
E-mail: voyage@international.gc.ca

Emergencies
Tel.: 613-996-8885
(call collect from abroad where available)
E-mail: sos@international.gc.ca

The Consular Affairs Bureau publishes, in both official languages, a series of safe travel brochures.

Country Travel Reports provide information on safety and security conditions, health issues and entry requirements for approximately 200 travel destinations. This information is also available by telephone: 1-800-267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-6788.

Canadian government offices abroad
www.voyage.gc.ca/alt/canoffices.asp

Publication Info

Published by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada

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