A Shanghai Disneyland holiday planning group member shares their advice about taking ADHD Medications into China
I had a very difficult time looking for information on bringing ADHD medications to China (mostly anecdotal reports, or very outdated information) – so thought Id report back my experience to help others!
Essentially – any immediate release or amphetamine-based medications (ie dexamphetamine or adderall/amphetamine) are unlikely to be accepted in. Thankfully, I use a long acting medications (ie Vyvanse/Concerta) which helped my case.
Unlike countries like Korea or Japan, I didn’t need to apply for approval ahead of my trip – which was a relief!
What I did to take ADHD meds to China:
– Requested a letter from my primary care provider (ideally the psychiatrist, but mine did not reply despite numerous requests)
– The letter contained: my name (+ passport details), the medications I am planning to bring (generic/brand name, dosage, number of tablets needed for the trip, why I am taking medications, prescribing doctor and pharmacy you get the medications from)
– A copy of the prescription (or at least a picture)
– The letter translated to Mandarin by a certified translator – THIS WAS VERY HELPFUL! Immigration didn’t even look at the original letter! => I googled local translators in my area – most work online. I did question legitimacy of some, my advise is to almost do like an email “contract” of sorts to ensure confidentiality – translators work under an ethical code to maintain confidentiality anyway
– What I mentioned in the email was: “I am wanting to confirm that the letter I would like translated and shared with you will be treated as strictly confidential. Specifically, I would like to request that you will not disclose or share the content with any third parties without my explicit permission, and that the information I share is only for the purposes of the translation request. “
– Brought the exact number of tablets I needed on original packaging (ideally one that has your details + prescriber on it)
– I declared on my arrival – some reports say dont even bother declaring but I really didn’t want to take the risk
Medications that can be questioned include ADHD meds + strong pain killers/sleeping tablets. I dont use the other 2 but I imagine the process would be the same – just need to discuss with your doctor if you really need the tablets + if there are alternatives.
Written by a Shanghai Disneyland holiday planning group member
Where can I buy discounted Shanghai Disney Resort Tickets?
You can buy Shanghai Disney tickets from official third party discount sellers Klook and KKDay
Buy your Shanghai Disneyland tickets online at Klook here
Buy your Shanghai Disneyland tickets online at KKDay here
You can get up to 10% off Klook or KKDay Shangai Disney and other activities with our discount code
Use my discount promocodes on Klook or KKDay to get up to 10% off many China theme parks and attractions by using our discount promocodes:
LETSGOMUMKLOOK at Klook checkout
LETSGOMUM at KKDay checkout
Klook existing customers can get 3% off. Klook conditions: $50 min spend, $50 max discount, 5 times use. KKDay conditions: $10USD max discount, 1 time use.
All prices and facts mentioned in this review were correct as at May2025. Please always re-check official websites for updates and current prices.
This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which does not add to the price you pay. Thank you for your support!
