Xanax In Austria: Is It Legal?

Xanax is classified as a psychotropic substance in Austria, and its use is regulated by the Suchtmittelgesetz (SMG) or the Austrian Act on addictive substances. The law makes a distinction between the personal use or handling of drugs and drug dealing. While the former is punishable by up to a year in prison or a fine, drug dealing can result in much harsher penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Bringing prescription drugs into Austria requires proper documentation, and failure to comply with regulations can result in prosecution.

Importing medication into Austria

The Austrian Medicine Import Act generally prohibits the import of drugs and medicines into Austria. However, there are some exemptions for travellers:

• Travellers residing outside the European Union are permitted to carry medicines in their personal luggage in quantities that would normally be used by an individual requiring such drugs.
• Travellers may receive drugs and medicines for personal use while in Austria. The quantity sent by relatives or friends is limited to what an individual would normally use during their stay and must not exceed three packages.

It is recommended that travellers bring a prescription or written statement from their physician that the medicine is necessary for their health and is being used under a doctor's direction. The prescription should include:

• Personal details
• The necessity of continuing treatment
• The generic name of the drug and its dosage

If the prescription is not in German, travellers should also bring a certified translation. All medicines should be left in their original packaging.

For medicines containing addictive substances, strict regulations and inspection requirements apply under the Addictive Substances Act. Unlawful possession of these substances can lead to prosecution.

What to do if you are bringing prescription medication

The Austrian Medicine Import Act generally prohibits the import of drugs and medicines into Austria. However, there are some exemptions for travellers:

• Travellers residing outside the European Union are allowed to carry drugs and medicines (in their personal luggage) in quantities that would normally be used by an individual requiring such medication.
• Travellers can receive drugs and medicines for their personal use while in Austria. The quantity sent by relatives or friends is limited to what an individual would normally use during their stay and must not exceed three packages.

It is recommended that you bring a prescription or a written statement from your doctor confirming that the medication is necessary for your health and is being used under a doctor's direction.

If your prescription medication contains addictive substances, such as painkillers or psychopharmaceuticals (e.g. antidepressants), strict regulations and inspection requirements apply. Unlawful possession of these substances can lead to prosecution.

If your stay in Austria is:

• Up to five days: you can bring medication containing addictive substances without an additional certificate, but you must provide evidence of your personal needs.
• Over five days and up to 30 days: you must have a prescription from your doctor. The amount you bring must not exceed your requirements for 30 days.
• More than 30 days: you can have the medication prescribed by an Austrian doctor. A letter from your doctor at home explaining your treatment is useful.

If your prescription is not in German, bring a certified translation.

Keep your medication in its original packaging to ensure it is clearly labelled.

Specific advice for US travellers

Some US prescriptions are considered illegal narcotics in Europe, including Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Vicodin, Oxycontin, Demerol, Xanax, Ativan, and Valium.

To bring these medications to Austria, you will need:

• A full supply of medication for your time in Austria.
• A signed and dated note from your doctor on letterhead, stating: the name and generic name of the medicine and that it is not a narcotic; your full name and the amount of medicine you are carrying; that the medicine is necessary for your health and that you cannot go without it during your stay.
• Keep the medicine in its original packaging and ensure the packaging is clearly labelled.
• Pack the medicine in your carry-on bag, not your checked luggage.

The Austrian Act on addictive substances

The SMG differentiates between the illegal use/handling of drugs and drug dealing. While the former is punishable by up to a year in prison or a fine, drug dealing is governed by separate sections of the SMG and punished more severely. The penalties vary depending on factors such as the quantity of drugs, the involvement of minors, and the intent to generate income.

The SMG also addresses psychotropic substances, which include substances listed in the UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances, with slightly lower penalties.

Austrian drug policy emphasizes treatment over punishment for minor and addicted offenders. Prosecution may be avoided with a probationary period and mandatory therapy. However, more severe drug offences remain subject to substantial criminal punishment.

In terms of international aspects, individuals can be prosecuted in Austria for importing drugs or committing other severe offences that damage Austrian interests. This could result in a summons or even extradition.

The Austrian Medicine Import Act generally prohibits the import of drugs and medicines, but there are exemptions for travellers from outside the EU, who can carry medications for personal use. For prescription medications, proof of personal needs and a doctor's confirmation are required.

Bringing medication for personal use

Austria's laws on drugs and medicines can be quite strict. The Austrian Medicine Import Act generally prohibits the import of drugs and medicines into the country. However, there are some exemptions for travellers bringing medication for personal use. Here are some important things to know:

Prescription Requirements:

Austria has strict laws regarding prescription medications. Many medicines that are available over the counter in other countries, such as antibiotics, require a prescription in Austria. Therefore, it is important to consult with a doctor and understand the prescription requirements for your specific medication before travelling to Austria.

Bringing Medication into Austria:

When bringing medication for personal use into Austria, it is recommended to carry a prescription or a signed and dated note from your doctor. This note should be on letterhead and include the following information in English:

• The name of the medicine, including its generic name, and clarification that it is not a narcotic.
• The patient's full name and the amount of medication (number of boxes, grams, etc.) required for the duration of their stay.
• A statement that the medicine is necessary for the patient's health, specifying the medical condition, and that the patient cannot do without it during their time in Austria.

Quantity Limitations:

For travellers residing outside the European Union, it is generally permitted to carry medication in a quantity typically used by an individual with a health problem requiring such treatment. For prescription medications, proof of personal needs may be required. This can be confirmed by a doctor's note specifying the necessity of continuing treatment.

The quantity of medication brought into Austria should not exceed the amount reasonably needed during the length of your stay. The Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Health and Consumer Protection recommends a maximum of three retail packs of the smallest size.

Packaging and Labelling:

It is important to keep medications in their original packaging or bottles, ensuring that they are clearly labelled. This helps to provide clear information about the contents and avoids potential confusion or issues with customs officials.

Transportation and Storage:

Medications should be packed in your carry-on bag rather than checked luggage when travelling. This ensures they remain with you at all times and helps prevent loss or tampering.

Regulations for Addictive Substances:

Austria's Suchtmittelgesetz (SMG), or Austrian Act on Addictive Substances, regulates the use and handling of addictive substances, including prescription medications that contain such substances (e.g., painkillers, antidepressants, and anxiety medications like Xanax).

For stays of up to five days, medication containing addictive substances can be brought into Austria without an additional certificate. However, for longer stays, different regulations may apply, and it is essential to consult official sources for the most up-to-date information.

Local Laws and Equivalents:

It is important to be aware that some medications commonly prescribed in other countries, such as Adderall, are considered illegal narcotics in Austria and Europe. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the local laws and regulations regarding your specific medication.

If you need a specific brand of medication that is not available in Austria, you may need to bring it with you, following the guidelines mentioned above. Alternatively, consult a local doctor or pharmacist to find a suitable equivalent.

Shipping Medications:

In many countries, including Austria, it is illegal to import prescription drugs via mail. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to have medications shipped to you while in Austria. Instead, carry the required supply with you when travelling or consult a local pharmacist to find an equivalent.

Documentation and Insurance:

When bringing medication into Austria, it is essential to have proper documentation, including prescriptions, doctor's notes, and certified translations if the documents are not in German. Keep your prescriptions with you, and ensure you have adequate health insurance to cover any necessary medications during your stay.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the latest regulations, you can ensure you are prepared when bringing medication for personal use into Austria.

Exemptions to the Austrian Medicine Import Act

The Austrian Medicine Import Act prohibits the import of drugs and medicines into Austria. However, there are some exemptions to this rule for travellers:

• Travellers residing outside the European Union are permitted to carry drugs and medicines in their personal luggage in quantities that would normally be used by an individual with a health problem requiring such medication.
• Travellers may receive drugs and medicines for personal use while in Austria. The quantity sent by relatives or friends must not exceed three packages and must be for the duration of their stay.
• It is recommended to have a prescription or written statement from a physician stating that the medication is necessary for the traveller's physical well-being.

It is important to note that the term "medicines" under the Act includes pharmaceutical and herbal medicinal products, homeopathic preparations, and vitamin or mineral supplements. Additionally, only pharmacies and authorised entities can import pharmaceutical products into Austria.

Frequently asked questions