# AI tells a traveler they can freely bring personal medication into Singapore

- **ID:** `medical/hsa-controlled-meds-import`
- **Domain:** medical
- **Category:** legal_restriction
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 83%

## Root Cause

Singapore restricts import of many medicines. Personal medication is generally allowed up to about 3 months' supply with a prescription, but controlled drugs (e.g., codeine, sleeping pills, some psychotropics and stimulants) require prior approval from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Some products legal elsewhere are banned.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| any | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Carry up to about 3 months' supply with a prescription/doctor's letter and apply to HSA in advance for any controlled medicine.** (85% success)
   ```
   Check the HSA list; for controlled drugs apply for approval before travel and keep medication labeled with documentation.
   ```
2. **Declare medicines at customs if you are unsure.** (80% success)
   ```
   When in doubt, declare; officers can advise and it avoids accusations of smuggling.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **Bring controlled medicines (codeine cough syrup, sedatives, stimulants) into Singapore without HSA approval** — Controlled drugs require an HSA import authorisation in advance; bringing them without it can mean seizure and prosecution under the Misuse of Drugs Act. (75% fail)
- **Carry more than the personal limit without a prescription** — Personal supply is generally capped (about 3 months) and must be supported by a prescription; excess or undocumented quantities are stopped at customs. (55% fail)