Bringing Medication and Prescriptions Into the UK: 2026 Student Guide

If you take regular medication, one of the most stressful parts of moving to the UK is working out what you're allowed to bring, how much, and how to keep your treatment going once your home supply runs out. The good news: with a little preparation, this is straightforward.

What you're allowed to bring

Most personal prescription medication can be brought into the UK for your own use without special permission, provided it's clearly for personal treatment and in reasonable quantities (generally interpreted as up to a 3-month supply). You should:

• Carry medication in its original packaging with the pharmacy label showing your name
• Bring a letter from your prescribing doctor stating the medication, dosage and your condition, ideally in English or with an official translation
• Keep medication in your hand luggage where practical, especially anything you need daily, in case checked luggage is delayed

Documentation to prepare before you travel

1. A letter from your home doctor confirming diagnosis, medication name (ideally the generic/international non-proprietary name, not just a brand), dosage and duration
2. A copy of your prescription
3. If possible, the patient information leaflet for the medication, useful for your UK GP to cross-reference
4. Your vaccination and medical history summary, if available — useful more broadly for GP registration

Transferring your prescription to an NHS GP

UK doctors generally cannot simply "continue" a foreign prescription without review, since medication names, doses and available brands differ between countries. Once you register with a GP:

1. Book an appointment (or ask for a phone consultation) specifically to discuss ongoing medication
2. Bring your doctor's letter and prescription copy
3. The GP will confirm the UK equivalent medication and dosage — this may take one or two appointments, especially for controlled or specialist medication
4. Once confirmed, you can order repeat prescriptions easily through the NHS App

Chronic conditions and specialist medication

If you manage a long-term condition such as diabetes, epilepsy or a mental health condition, it's worth reading our dedicated guide on managing a chronic condition after moving to the UK, which covers specialist referrals, prescription costs and repeat supply in more detail.

Costs to expect

Once registered with a GP and the NHS confirms your treatment, prescriptions are covered under the same charging rules as any NHS patient. Many international students on a Student visa have already paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which gives access to NHS care including prescriptions in England at the standard prescription charge (or free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland). See our guide on what the IHS actually covers for the full picture.

Arriving prepared makes all the difference

Sorting your medication documentation before you fly, and registering with a GP in your first week, avoids the single most common cause of health stress among new international students. Our airport pickup and arrival packages build settling-in essentials like this into your first days, and for parents abroad, we outline exactly what to check before your child departs.