Bringing US Prescriptions to the Netherlands for US Citizens
One of our biggest worries before moving to the Netherlands was medication. What if a prescription we relied on was not available? What if we got stopped at customs with bottles of pills?
Turns out, bringing medication to the Netherlands is straightforward if you prepare. And transitioning to the Dutch system for ongoing prescriptions is easier than expected.
Here is what we learned about bringing US prescriptions and getting set up with a Dutch pharmacy after arriving on the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) visa.
What You Can Bring Into the Netherlands
You are allowed to bring prescription medication for personal use when entering the Netherlands. The general rule is a maximum 90-day supply.
What to pack:
- Medication in its original pharmacy-labeled container
- A letter from your US doctor listing your medications, dosages, and diagnoses
- Copies of your prescriptions
- A note explaining what each medication is for (in case of questions at customs)
Keep medications in your carry-on luggage. Never check them. If your bags get lost, you do not want to be without essential medication.
Pro Tip: Ask your US doctor for a letter on official letterhead that lists each medication by its generic (chemical) name, not just the brand name. Dutch pharmacies use generic names, and brand names often differ between countries.
Controlled Substances: Extra Rules
If you take controlled substances (ADHD medication like Adderall, anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, or opioid pain medication), you need to take extra steps.
For Schengen entry with controlled substances:
- Get a Schengen certificate from your US doctor, authenticated by a state health authority
- This certificate is valid for up to 30 days of travel
- Carry no more than the amount needed for your stay
Important notes on ADHD medication: Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) is not available in the Netherlands. If you take Adderall, talk to your US doctor about transitioning to a medication that is available here, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) or dexamphetamine. Start this conversation months before your move.
Reality Check: Some medications that are common in the US are simply not prescribed or not available in the Netherlands. This is not a bureaucratic issue. Dutch medical practice sometimes differs from US practice on what medications are appropriate.
Transitioning to Dutch Prescriptions
Once you are settled, you will need to transition from US prescriptions to Dutch ones. Your US prescriptions are not valid at Dutch pharmacies.
Step 1: Register with a Huisarts
Your Dutch GP is your starting point for all prescriptions. If you have not done this yet, check our guide on registering with a huisarts.
Step 2: Bring Your Medical Information
At your first GP appointment, bring:
- A list of all current medications (generic names, dosages, frequency)
- Your US doctor's letter
- Any relevant medical records or test results
- Information about why each medication was prescribed
Step 3: Get Dutch Prescriptions
Your huisarts will review your medications and write Dutch prescriptions for the same or equivalent drugs. In most cases, this is a smooth process. The GP recognizes that you have an established treatment plan and continues it.
For some medications, your GP might refer you to a specialist first. This is common for psychiatric medications, hormonal treatments, or anything requiring ongoing monitoring. Read more about how the referral system works.
Using a Dutch Pharmacy (Apotheek)
Dutch pharmacies work differently from US pharmacies.
How it works:
- Your GP sends prescriptions electronically to your chosen apotheek
- You pick up your medication (sometimes same day, sometimes next day)
- The pharmacist explains everything and checks for drug interactions
- You pay nothing or a small amount (most prescription meds are covered by basic health insurance)
Choosing a pharmacy: Pick one near your home and register with them. They will keep your medication history on file. Many pharmacies in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague have English-speaking staff.
What We Wish We Knew: Dutch pharmacies dispense smaller quantities than US pharmacies. Instead of a 90-day supply, you might get 30 days at a time with automatic refills. This means more trips to the pharmacy but also more regular check-ins.
What Medications Cost in the Netherlands
Most prescription medications are covered by your basic health insurance. You pay nothing at the pharmacy for covered medications, though the cost counts toward your eigen risico (deductible).
Some medications require a small co-pay if you choose a brand name when a generic is available. The pharmacy will always tell you upfront.
Compared to the US: Medication costs in the Netherlands are dramatically lower. Drugs that cost hundreds of dollars per month in the US often cost the pharmacy just a few euros here. You will not see those costs directly, but it means the system works.
Common Medication Differences
A few things Americans should know:
Antibiotics: Dutch doctors prescribe antibiotics far less frequently than US doctors. Do not expect a Z-pack for every cold. This is intentional -- the Netherlands has some of the lowest antibiotic resistance rates in Europe.
Pain medication: Opioids are rarely prescribed. For post-surgical pain or chronic pain, expect paracetamol (acetaminophen), ibuprofen, or other non-opioid options first.
Over-the-counter availability: Some medications that are OTC in the US require a prescription here, and vice versa. Melatonin, for example, used to require a prescription (now available OTC in lower doses).
Birth control: Available through your huisarts. The pill, IUD, and other options are covered by insurance for women under 21. Over 21, some methods require out-of-pocket payment.
Planning Your Transition Timeline
3-6 months before moving:
- Get a detailed letter from your US doctor
- Request copies of relevant medical records
- If you take controlled substances, research availability in the Netherlands
- Get a 90-day supply of all current medications
First 2 weeks after arriving:
- Register with a huisarts
- Register with a local apotheek
- Schedule an introductory GP appointment
First month:
- Transition prescriptions to Dutch equivalents
- Build a relationship with your pharmacist
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I have my US pharmacy mail medications to me in the Netherlands? A: Generally no. Importing prescription medications by mail is restricted. Small quantities for personal use might get through, but it is not reliable and may be confiscated by customs. Transition to Dutch prescriptions instead.
Q: What if my medication is not available in the Netherlands? A: Your GP or a specialist can sometimes arrange for a medication to be imported through a special pharmacy program. This takes time, so start the conversation early. In most cases, there is a Dutch equivalent available.
Q: Do I need to bring my vaccination records? A: It is a good idea. The Netherlands does not require specific vaccinations for entry, but having your records helps your new GP maintain a complete medical file. Bring whatever documentation you have.
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We're not immigration lawyers -- just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.