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SFDA now requires a clearance permit for travelerscarrying controlled medications . - Applications must be submitted online via the
Controlled Drug System (CDS). - Travelers need to upload prescriptions, ID, and medical proof to get approval.
If you’re traveling to or from Saudi Arabia with medications containing narcotics or psychotropic substances, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has introduced a streamlined process to help. Through a newly issued set of guidelines, the SFDA now enables travelers to obtain clearance permits online via its Controlled Drug System (CDS). The system is designed to ensure that patients can carry their prescribed medications without unnecessary delays, while upholding regulatory standards to prevent misuse.
New clearance guidelines for controlled medications
In a move to support patients and enhance travel efficiency, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has released official procedures for obtaining clearance permits for travelers carrying controlled medications. These drugs include narcotic and psychotropic substances, which are strictly regulated under Saudi law. According to the SFDA, these guidelines apply to all passengers, both arriving and departing, who need to carry such medications for personal or patient use. The initiative is part of SFDA’s broader commitment to balancing public safety with patient accessibility. All details and processes for obtaining a permit are now centralized and accessible via SFDA’s Controlled Drug System (CDS), available at: https://cds.sfda.gov.sa.
How the application process works
Travelers can now obtain the necessary clearance by following a straightforward digital application process:
- Create a personal account:
Users begin by registering on the CDS platform. - Submit an electronic permit request:
The application must include:- Personal information of the patient
- Complete trip details
- Upload required documents:
Applicants are required to submit the following supporting materials:- A valid medical prescription
- A medical report confirming the condition
- Proof of identity (such as passport or national ID)
- Declare medication details:
Travelers can include multiple medications in a single application by providing:- Trade name of each drug
- Active ingredient(s)
- Drug concentration
- Dosage form (e.g., tablet, injection)
- Quantity or pack size
- Clarify medical need:
The application must show clear evidence that the drugs are required for medical use, either for the applicant or for another patient under their care. - Agree to terms & conditions:
Before submission, applicants must confirm compliance with SFDA’s terms. - Track application status:
The CDS system allows users to monitor real-time progress, which can fall under one of four categories:- Submitted
- Completed
- Rejected
- Incomplete
- Print the clearance permit:
Once approved, users can download and print the permit directly from the platform.
Why the guidelines matter
These new measures underscore SFDA’s dual focus on patient rights and public safety. By clearly regulating the entry and exit of controlled substances, the Authority aims to:
- Prevent abuse and illegal diversion of sensitive medications
- Facilitate access for patients in genuine need
- Eliminate bureaucratic hurdles by digitizing the entire process
- Allow submissions from anywhere, at any time
This initiative significantly reduces the need for manual or in-person procedures, enabling travelers, especially those with chronic illnesses or complex medical needs, to secure the necessary authorizations in advance of their travel. For a detailed walkthrough of the entire application process, travelers can consult the User Manual for the Traveler Clearance Permit of Controlled Drugs, available on the SFDA website
About the SFDA
Established in 2003 under the Council of Ministers’ resolution, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority is an independent regulatory body directly reporting to the President of the Council of Ministers. Its main mission is to safeguard public health by ensuring the safety and quality of food, medicines, biological and chemical substances, medical devices, and cosmetics. The SFDA oversees all procedures related to these products, aiming to protect both human and animal health throughout the Kingdom.Q. Do I need a permit if I’m carrying prescription medication with narcotics into Saudi Arabia? Yes, a clearance permit is required for any controlled drugs, even if they are prescribed.Q. Where do I apply for the clearance permit? You must apply online through SFDA’s Controlled Drug System (CDS) at https://cds.sfda.gov.sa.Q. What documents are needed for the application? You’ll need a valid prescription, a medical report, proof of identity, and medication details like dosage and quantity.Q. Can I apply on behalf of someone else? Yes, the permit can be obtained for another patient, but you must provide proof of their medical need.