Can I bring Insulin pens (insulin, with pen needles) to Japan, South Korea or China?

Checked 14 October 2026 · Independent guide by East&Well.

Short answer

Taking other medicines too? Check them all for your trip

Country by country

Japan

Within the limit

The rule

Injectable medicines in pre-filled syringes or self-injection kits, with their needles: up to a one-month supply with no paperwork.

What to do

More than a month’s supply needs an Import Confirmation before you leave home.

China

No set amount

The rule

China allows medicines for your own use in a “reasonable quantity”, under customs supervision. There’s no set amount.

What to do

Bring only what you need for the trip, with your prescription or medical record, and declare medicines to customs if asked.

Names to show a pharmacist

The same medicine, as it’s written in each country. Not yet checked by a pharmacist.

US brand
Insulin pens
Generic
insulin, with pen needles
Japanese
インスリン
Korean
인슐린
Chinese
胰岛素(含针头)

Similar medicines

Questions people ask

How much Insulin pens can I bring to Japan?

Injectable medicines in pre-filled syringes or self-injection kits, with their needles: up to a one-month supply with no paperwork. More than a month’s supply needs an Import Confirmation before you leave home.

Do I need a permit for Insulin pens in South Korea?

Ordinary medicines: up to 6 bottles or a 3-month supply. You must be able to show they’re for your own use: a prescription, a medical certificate or the pharmacy label. Keep them in the original packaging. You may be asked for a receipt.

Can I bring Insulin pens to China?

China allows medicines for your own use in a “reasonable quantity”, under customs supervision. There’s no set amount. Bring only what you need for the trip, with your prescription or medical record, and declare medicines to customs if asked.

What this page is

A plain summary of each government’s own rules, with links, checked 14 October 2026.

What it isn’t

Legal or medical advice. Rules change, and the officer at the border has the final say.