Papua New GuineaTravelling with ADHD medication: rules, permits and documents
OceaniaLast checked 20 Jul 2026Low confidence: check with the embassyHow we rate a record
Papua New Guinea treats these medications differently. Of the 7 we track, 4 have no published rule we could find and 3 need only your prescription.
Serious penalties: PNG Customs states plainly that illegal drugs are not tolerated and penalties are severe at the border and within the country (Customs Act 1952 ss151 & 160); secondary press reporting describes a 2021 law reform raising trafficking penalties to up to life imprisonment or a K2 million fine, but the gazetted text could not be verified.
We could not find strong recent official guidance for this country. Contact the embassy or consulate directly before you travel.
By medication
Brand names first, generic in brackets. Each line resolves the drug class rule below, plus anything Papua New Guinea records specifically for that medication.
- Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)Unclear
No PNG source distinguishes ADHD stimulants from opioids for traveller purposes.
- Ritalin, Concerta (methylphenidate)Unclear
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
- Dexamphetamine (dexamfetamine)Unclear
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
- Strattera (atomoxetine)Prescription
Atomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine are not controlled substances; declare on arrival and carry a prescription, but no restricted-drug import licence is needed.
- Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts)Unclear
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
- Intuniv (guanfacine)Prescription
The same rule as Strattera above.
- Qelbree (viloxazine)Prescription
The same rule as Strattera above.
Rules by drug class
Narcotic (opioids)
Unclear- Quantity
- No PNG source states a quantity, day-supply or dose limit for a traveller's personal opioid supply.
- Permit
- Not published.
- Documents
- prescription, customs declaration
Psychotropic (ADHD stimulants, benzodiazepines, sleep)
Unclear- Quantity
- Same as narcotic class — no PNG source states a quantity limit.
- Permit
- Not published.
- Documents
- prescription, customs declaration
Not internationally controlled
PrescriptionAtomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine are not controlled substances; declare on arrival and carry a prescription, but no restricted-drug import licence is needed.
Responsible authority
Papua New Guinea Customs Service; Department of Health (Minister for Health)
PNG Customs: +675 312-7500
Sources
The source behind everything above, so you can check it yourself rather than take our word for it. Always confirm the current rule with the source before you travel.
Your trip pack
A doctor's letter for Papua New Guinea, filled in with your medications and your stops, ready to sign.
The rules above are free and stay free. The pack is the paperwork that goes with them: a checklist for each stop in travel order, a printable PDF, and the letter to take to your GP.
Build your trip packCommon questions
This page organises publicly available government information and links. It is not legal or medical advice. Rules change and enforcement varies, so always confirm with the official sources above or the Papua New Guinea embassy or consulate before travelling.