# Legality of cannabis

The legality of cannabis for medical and recreational use varies by country, in terms of its possession, distribution, and cultivation, and (in regards to medical) how it can be consumed and what medical conditions it can be used for. These policies in most countries are regulated by three United Nations treaties: the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, and the 1988 Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. Cannabis was reclassified in 2020 to a Schedule I-only drug under the Single Convention treaty (from being a Schedule I and IV drug previously), with the schedules from strictest to least being IV, I, II, and III. As a Schedule I drug under the treaty, countries can allow the medical use of cannabis but it is considered to be an addictive drug with a serious risk of abuse.
The use of cannabis for recreational purposes is prohibited in most countries; however, many have adopted a policy of decriminalization to make simple possession a non-criminal offense (often similar to a minor traffic violation). Others have much more severe penalties such as some Middle Eastern and Far Eastern countries where possession of even small amounts is punished by imprisonment for several years. Countries that have legalized recreational use of cannabis are Canada, Georgia, Germany, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, South Africa, Thailand, and Uruguay, plus 24 states, 3 territories, and the District of Columbia in the United States and the Australian Capital Territory in Australia. Commercial sale of recreational cannabis is legalized nationwide in three countries (Canada, Thailand, and Uruguay) and in all subnational U.S. jurisdictions that have legalized possession except Virginia and Washington, D.C. A policy of limited enforcement has also been adopted in many countries, in particular the Netherlands where the sale of cannabis is tolerated at licensed coffeeshops.
The legalization of recreational cannabis has been put forward as a solution to restrict access to the drug by minors, a method of harm reduction, a way of reducing organized crime, aid economic growth and revenue, as well as enable job creation. Unregulated cannabis from the illegal black market comes with increased health risks, such as unknown THC rate, unknown potency, possible toxic additives and contaminants and synthetic cannabinoids. Whereas, a legal and regulated cannabis system enables product quality and safety requirements to be mandated for public safety and consumer awareness. Cannabis illegality tends to become a burden on the criminal justice system, with legalization as a way to free up police time and resources to focus on more serious crimes, reduce the prison population of non-violent drug offenders and thus save taxpayers money.
Countries that have legalized medical use of cannabis include Albania, Argentina, Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Malawi, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Rwanda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Others have more restrictive laws that allow only the use of certain cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals, such as Sativex, Marinol, or Epidiolex. In the United States, 39 states, 4 territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized the medical use of cannabis, but at the federal level its use remains prohibited.

## Legalization timeline

Countries with legalized recreational cannabis vte :
| Country | Effective date | Licensed sales since |
| Uruguay | December 2013 | July 2017 |
| Georgia | 30 July 2018 | Never authorized |
| South Africa | 18 September 2018 | Never authorized |
| Canada | 17 October 2018 | 17 October 2018 |
| Mexico | 28 June 2021 | Never authorized |
| Malta | 14 December 2021 | Never authorized |
| Thailand | 9 June 2022 | 9 June 2022 |
| Luxembourg | 21 July 2023 | Never authorized |
| Germany | 1 April 2024 | Never authorized |

## By country

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| Country/Territory | Recreational | Medical | Notes |
| Afghanistan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Afghanistan Production banned by King Zahir Shah in 1973. |
| Albania | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Albania Prohibited but plants highly available throughout the country and law often unenforced. On 21 July 2023 the Albanian Parliament voted 69–23 to legalize medical cannabis. |
| Algeria | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Algeria |
| Andorra | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Andorra |
| Angola | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Angola |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Decriminalized. Legal to grow and use by Rastafari. | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Antigua and Barbuda |
| Argentina | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Argentina Medicinal cannabis was legalized on 22 September 2017. |
| Armenia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Armenia |
| Australia | Decriminalized in Northern Territory and South Australia. Legal in Australian Capital Territory for personal use but not for sale. | Legal at federal level and in all states. Qualifying conditions and other details vary by state. | Main article: Cannabis in Australia In September 2019, the Australian Capital Territory became the first state or territory of Australia to legalize recreational use of cannabis. Since 31 January 2020 residents have been allowed to grow two plants and possess 50 g (1+3⁄4 oz), though sales or other transfer is prohibited, including cannabis seeds. Federal law also remains enforceable. |
| Austria | Possession for personal use decriminalized as of January 2016. | Dronabinol, Sativex, Nabilone | Main article: Cannabis in Austria |
| Azerbaijan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Azerbaijan |
| Bahamas | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Bahamas |
| Bahrain | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Bahrain |
| Bangladesh | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Bangladesh Sale banned in 1989, but laws are rarely enforced and cannabis is openly sold in many parts of the country. |
| Barbados | Legal for spiritual use by registered Rastafarians | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Barbados |
| Belarus | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Belarus |
| Belgium | Decriminalized up to 3 g (1⁄10 oz) or cultivation of one plant | Sativex | Main article: Cannabis in Belgium Up to 3 g (1⁄10 oz) decriminalized for adults since 2003. |
| Belize | Decriminalized up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Belize Possession prohibited, but use is common and largely tolerated. Possession of up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) decriminalized. |
| Benin | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Benin |
| Bermuda | Decriminalized up to 7 g (1⁄4 oz) | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Bermuda In November 2016, the Supreme Court of Bermuda ruled in favor of allowing the medical use of cannabis. As of July 2018, two doctors have been licensed to prescribe the drug. |
| Bhutan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Bhutan Illegal, but plants grow prolifically and have multiple traditional uses, such as feeding pigs and producing textiles. |
| Bolivia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Bolivia |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Bosnia and Herzegovina In 2016, the Ministry of Civil Affairs formed a task force to explore the legalization of cannabis and cannabinoids for medicinal purposes. |
| Botswana | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Botswana Cannabis (or dagga) is illegal. |
| Brazil | Decriminalized up to 40 g (1+3⁄8 oz) or cultivation of 6 plants for personal use | Legal for terminally ill patients or those who have exhausted other treatment options. | Main article: Cannabis in Brazil Legislation passed in 2006 to require treatment and community service for possessing small amounts of drugs instead of jail time. Possession of large amounts, as well as sale, transportation, and cultivation, are considered drug trafficking. |
| Brunei | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Brunei |
| Bulgaria | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Bulgaria Cannabis is classified as a class A (High-risk) drug, together with heroin, cocaine, amphetamines, and MDMA (ecstasy). Until 2004, a loosely defined "personal dose" existed. |
| Burkina Faso | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Burkina Faso |
| Burundi | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Burundi |
| Cambodia | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Cambodia Illegal, but this prohibition is lax and enforced opportunistically. "Happy" restaurants in cities publicly offer food cooked with marijuana, or as a side garnish. |
| Cameroon | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Cameroon |
| Canada | Legal | Legal | Main articles: Cannabis in Canada and Cannabis laws of Canada by province or territory Legal for medicinal purposes since 2001 and for recreational purposes since 17 October 2018. The age to buy or consume cannabis varies by province: 19 in most provinces, 18 in Alberta, and 21 in Quebec. |
| Cape Verde | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Cape Verde |
| Central African Republic | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Central African Republic |
| Chad | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Chad |
| Chile | Decriminalized for possession and cultivation | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Chile Private personal use and recreational cultivation decriminalized. Medicinal cultivation legal with the authorization of The Chilean Agriculture Service (SAG) and sale of medication allowed on prescription in pharmacies. |
| People's Republic of China (PRC) | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in China Penalty for possession or consumption: 10–15 days' detention without prosecution and a fine. |
| Colombia | Decriminalized up to 22 g (3⁄4 oz) or cultivation of 20 plants for personal use | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Colombia Decriminalized up to 22 g (3⁄4 oz) for personal consumption. Individuals carrying greater amounts, or cultivating up to 20 plants, cannot be prosecuted if the drug is for personal use. |
| Comoros | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Comoros Cannabis was legal in Comoros between January 1975 and May 1978, when president Ali Soilih legalized cannabis consumption among other measures. |
| Cook Islands | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Cook Islands A non-binding referendum in August 2022 asked "Should we review our cannabis laws to allow for research and medicinal use?" 62% voted yes. |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo |
| Republic of the Congo | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Republic of the Congo |
| Costa Rica | Decriminalized | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Costa Rica Decriminalized since police officers do not detain people for personal use, yet no amount has been defined as a minimum for possession. Use of cannabis is widespread throughout the country. |
| Croatia | Decriminalized | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Croatia Possession of small amounts is considered a misdemeanor subject to fixed fines. Medicinal cannabis legal for patients with illnesses such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, or HIV/AIDS. |
| Cuba | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Cuba |
| Cyprus | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Cyprus Class B substance – life imprisonment is possible for use and maximum 8 years for possession (at the maximum 2 years for the first offense for people under 25). |
| Czech Republic | Decriminalized up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) or cultivation of 5 plants | Legal with prescription. Without prescription, sale of products up to 1% THC allowed. | Main article: Cannabis in the Czech Republic Possession of up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) or cultivation of up to 5 plants is an infraction subject to a minor fine – mostly not enforced. Medicinal use legal and regulated since 2013. |
| Denmark | Illegal | Legal (4-year pilot program launched in January 2018 and was extended an additional 4 years) | Main article: Cannabis in Denmark As with all drugs, cannabis-related offenses are punishable by a fine or imprisonment for up to 2 years. Freetown Christiania, a self-declared autonomous community in Copenhagen, is known for its cannabis trade. |
| Djibouti | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Djibouti |
| Dominica | Decriminalized up to 28 g (1 oz) | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Dominica |
| Dominican Republic | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Dominican Republic |
| Ecuador | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Ecuador Possession of up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) decriminalized in 2013, but policy was repealed by President Daniel Noboa in 2023. |
| Egypt | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Egypt Illegal since 1925 but use is widespread. Convictions for personal use are rare. Formerly a plant of high status with several documented medicinal uses in ancient times. |
| El Salvador | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in El Salvador |
| Equatorial Guinea | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Equatorial Guinea |
| Eritrea | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Eritrea |
| Estonia | Decriminalized | With a special permit | Main article: Cannabis in Estonia Up to 7.5 g (1⁄4 oz) is considered an amount for personal use, and is punished with a fine. Large amounts and distribution are criminal offenses punishable with a custodial sentence of up to 5 years. Medical cannabis is technically legal, but to get a prescription is an arduous process and is practically never given, with a single patient having received Sativex preparation. |
| Eswatini (Swaziland) | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Eswatini |
| Ethiopia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Ethiopia Despite being the spiritual homeland of the Rastafari movement, possession of cannabis can result in up to six months imprisonment. |
| Fiji | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Fiji |
| Finland | Illegal but sometimes not enforced | Legal under license. | Main article: Cannabis in Finland Personal use is generally not prosecuted in court but subject to summary fine. Medicinal cannabis possible under a special license since 2006; in 2014, 223 licenses were issued. |
| France | Illegal, but on-the-spot fines are usually issued in place of prosecution | A two-year trial program involving 3,000 patients underway | Main article: Cannabis in France Possession up to 100 g (3+1⁄2 oz) entails a €200 fine since November 2018, although a judge is still legally able to pronounce a stricter sentence. Medical use of some cannabinoid drugs legalized in 2013. |
| Gabon | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Gabon |
| Gambia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Gambia |
| Georgia | Legal for possession and consumption but not for sale, per a July 2018 ruling by the Constitutional Court of Georgia. | Use is legal, but no system for the dispensing of cannabis exists. | Main article: Cannabis in Georgia (country) |
| Germany | Legal for possession, consumption, and cultivation since 1 April 2024. Distribution allowed through non-profit cannabis clubs since 1 July 2024. | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Germany On 23 February 2024, the German Bundestag passed the Act on the Controlled Use of Cannabis, legalizing possession of 25 g (7⁄8 oz) outside the home, 50 g (1+3⁄4 oz) at home, and private cultivation of three plants, for adults 18 and over, since 1 April 2024. Collective, noncommercial cultivation is legal in cultivation associations (i.e. cannabis social clubs) since 1 July 2024. |
| Ghana | Illegal | Legal only for THC less than 0.3% | Main article: Cannabis in Ghana |
| Greece | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Greece |
| Greenland (Kalaallit Nunaat) | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Greenland |
| Grenada | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Grenada |
| Guatemala | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Guatemala In 2016 a constitutional commission rejected proposals to legalize medicinal or recreational use of cannabis. |
| Guinea | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Guinea |
| Guinea-Bissau | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Guinea-Bissau |
| Guyana | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Guyana Possession of 15 g (1⁄2 oz) or over can result in charges of drug trafficking. |
| Haiti | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Haiti |
| Honduras | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Honduras The possession, sale, transportation, and cultivation of cannabis is illegal. |
| Hong Kong | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Hong Kong Possession, sale, transportation, and cultivation illegal under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance. (Chapter 134 of the Law of Hong Kong) |
| Hungary | Illegal | CBD only | Main article: Cannabis in Hungary There is no distinction in Hungarian law between illicit drugs according to dangers. Heroin use has the same legal consequences as cannabis use. |
| Iceland | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Iceland Banned in 1969. Possession of small amounts is subject to arrest and fine but no threat of jail time. |
| India | Illegal, but exception is made for the use of bhang. | CBD oil legal, less than 0.3% THC | Main article: Cannabis in India Albeit illegal, usage is prevalent and some government-owned shops sell cannabis in the form of bhang. States have their own laws regarding cannabis, locally known as ganja. |
| Indonesia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Indonesia Banned in 1927. Minimum sentence of 4 years in prison (additional fines may apply) if caught dealing / distributing. Rehabilitation or maximum sentence of 4 years if caught in possession alone. |
| Iran | Illegal, but not strictly enforced | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Iran Maximum of capital punishment to possess hashish over 5 kg (11 lb) but unenforced. |
| Iraq | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Iraq |
| Ireland | Illegal | Legal as part of 5-year pilot program enacted in June 2019 | Main article: Cannabis in Ireland The National Drugs Strategy of 2009–2016 did not favor decriminalizing cannabis. A new strategy was planned for 2017. Cannabis-derived medicines may be licensed since 2014. A review of policy on medicinal cannabis was announced in November 2016, and a private member's bill to legalize it passed second stage in the Dáil in December 2016. |
| Israel | Decriminalized | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Israel As of April 2019, public possession of small amounts is a non-criminal offense punished by escalating fines. A third offense can result in criminal charges, however. Possession in the privacy of one's home is not punished. |
| Italy | Possession decriminalized; home cultivation legal in small amounts for personal use. | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Italy Possession of small amounts for personal use is a misdemeanor subject to fines and the suspension of documents (passports or driver's licenses). Sale is punishable by imprisonment, even if in small amounts. Licensed cultivation for medicinal and industrial use strictly regulated. |
| Ivory Coast | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Ivory Coast |
| Jamaica | Decriminalized up to 56.5 g (2 oz) or cultivation of 5 plants. Legal for Rastafari. | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Jamaica Decriminalized since 2015, and in 2018 the first medical cannabis dispensary opened. |
| Japan | Illegal | CBD only | Main article: Cannabis in Japan Restricted in 1948. Use and possession are punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine. Cultivation, sale, and transport are punishable by 7–10 years imprisonment and a fine. |
| Jordan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Jordan |
| Kazakhstan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Kazakhstan |
| Kenya | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Kenya |
| Kiribati | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Kiribati |
| Korea, North (DPRK) | Illegal, but widely unenforced according to defectors. | Use is legal when prescribed, but no system for the dispensing of cannabis confirmed. | Main article: Cannabis in North Korea Cannabis is listed in Appendix 1 Narcotics in the DPRK. Narcotics Control Law (2005) states that narcotics may be used when prescribed. There are conflicting reports on the legal status of cannabis in North Korea. Multiple reports from defectors and tourists claim there is no law regarding the possession of cannabis in North Korea or if there is, it is mostly unenforced. However, other reports claim that cannabis is illegal. |
| Korea, South | Illegal | Access limited to Epidiolex, Marinol and Sativex as of now due to a policy implemented by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety | Main article: Cannabis in South Korea Medical use of cannabis was legalized in November 2018. The plant itself, however, remains unavailable due to a policy implemented by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. |
| Kosovo | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Kosovo |
| Kuwait | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Kuwait |
| Kyrgyzstan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Kyrgyzstan |
| Laos | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Laos |
| Latvia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Latvia Possession of up to 1 g (1⁄28 oz) can result in a €280 fine; for second offenses within a year period, criminal charges are applied. Larger quantities can be punished with up to 15 years in prison. |
| Lebanon | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Lebanon Hashish banned in 1926; cultivation banned in 1992. Large amounts of cannabis are still grown within the country illicitly, however. Cultivation of cannabis for medical use was legalized in April 2020. |
| Lesotho | Illegal but tolerated | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Lesotho Licensed cultivation allowed for export to other countries. Also widely grown for illicit purposes. |
| Liberia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Liberia |
| Libya | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Libya |
| Liechtenstein | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Liechtenstein |
| Lithuania | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Lithuania Medical cannabis is illegal in Lithuania, but a law allowing seriously ill patients to use drugs made from synthetic cannabinoids was passed by the Seimas on 11 October 2018. |
| Luxembourg | Legal to grow up to 4 plants at home for personal consumption. Possession of up to 3 g (1⁄10 oz) outside the home is decriminalized, subject to a fine. Sale remains prohibited. | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Luxembourg Decriminalized in 2001. Home use and cultivation legal since 21 July 2023. |
| Macau, SAR of China | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Macau |
| Madagascar | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Madagascar |
| Malawi | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Malawi Illegal but widely used and cultivated; Malawian cannabis is famed internationally for its quality. Chamba is grown mainly in central and northern regions like Mzuzu. |
| Malaysia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Malaysia Mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers, legally defined as individuals possessing more than 200 g (7 oz) of cannabis. |
| Maldives | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Maldives |
| Mali | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Mali |
| Malta | Legal for possession, consumption, and cultivation. Distribution is allowed through non-profit cannabis clubs. | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Malta On 30 March 2021, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced a proposal to legalize possession of up to 7 g (1⁄4 oz) and the cultivation of up to 4 plants, and for people charged with possession in the past to have it expunged from their criminal records. In December 2021, legislation was passed by the Maltese Parliament and signed into law by President George Vella. |
| Marshall Islands | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Marshall Islands |
| Mauritania | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Mauritania |
| Mauritius | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Mauritius |
| Mexico | Legal for possession, consumption, and cultivation with a permit, but not for sale. | Use is legal, but no system for the dispensing of cannabis exists. | Main article: Cannabis in Mexico Possession of 5 g (3⁄16 oz) was decriminalized in 2009. In 2015 the Supreme Court voted 4–1 that prohibiting people from growing the drug for personal use was unconstitutional. In 2018 the Supreme Court reaffirmed the ruling and requested that the legislature update the country's laws regarding cannabis. After the legislature failed to act, the Supreme Court in 2021 invalidated laws regarding the personal possession and cultivation of cannabis. |
| Micronesia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Micronesia |
| Moldova | Decriminalized | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Moldova |
| Monaco | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Monaco |
| Mongolia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Mongolia |
| Montenegro | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Montenegro |
| Morocco | Illegal but often unenforced | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Morocco Morocco is among the world's top producers of hashish. |
| Mozambique | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Mozambique |
| Myanmar | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Myanmar |
| Namibia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Namibia Cannabis is illegal; in 2007 the government proposed but declined a 20-year jail sentence for any drug possession. |
| Nauru | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Nauru |
| Nepal | Illegal, but allowed during Maha Shivaratri | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Nepal All cannabis licenses canceled in 1973. |
| Netherlands | Consumption and sale are tolerated in licensed coffeeshops. Possession of up to 5 g (3⁄16 oz) is decriminalized. Cultivation of up to 5 plants is unenforced for non-commercial use (unless grown in a professional setup). | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in the Netherlands Personal possession decriminalized and sale allowed only in certain licensed coffeeshops in the continental Netherlands. Cultivation often tolerated but growers can still have their plants and equipment confiscated and face eviction or cancellation of their mortgage for one single plant. Zero tolerance policy in the Caribbean Netherlands. |
| New Zealand | Illegal | Legal | See also: Cannabis in New Zealand Banned in 1927. Possession over 28 g (1 oz) is presumed for supply. Medical use was legalized in 2018. In 2020, a referendum to legalize recreational use failed by a 50.7% to 48.4% margin. |
| Nicaragua | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Nicaragua |
| Niger | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Niger |
| Nigeria | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Nigeria |
| North Macedonia | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in North Macedonia If one possesses large amounts, a jail sentence of anywhere from 3 months to 5 years may be given. Medicinal cannabis legalized since 2016. |
| Norway | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Norway Illegal since 1965. As of 2022, use and possession of up to 15 g (1⁄2 oz) are punished with heavy fines and possible loss of driver's license. Solberg's Cabinet proposed a decriminalization bill in 2021 that would remove all sanctions for illegal drug use, including possession of up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) of cannabis. Six parties (43,8%) voted for, while three parties (56,2%) voted against. As a result, the bill did not pass the parliament. |
| Oman | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Oman |
| Pakistan | Illegal, but often unenforced (particularly in some tribal regions) | CBD only | Main article: Cannabis in Pakistan Prohibited, but the smoking of hashish in Peshawar and the northern parts of Pakistan tends to be tolerated. One may be sent to jail for up to six months if found with charas in other parts of the country. CBD legalized by cabinet announcement in September 2020. |
| Palau | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Palau |
| Panama | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Panama |
| Papua New Guinea | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Papua New Guinea |
| Paraguay | Decriminalized up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Paraguay The possession of up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) of cannabis is not punishable. |
| Peru | Decriminalized up to 8 g (1⁄4 oz) | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Peru Possession of up to 8 g (1⁄4 oz) is not punished. Cultivation, production, and sale are punished with 8–15 years in prison. |
| Philippines | Illegal | Illegal but may be allowed with special permit | Main article: Cannabis in the Philippines Medical use of cannabis is possible with a special permit from the Food and Drugs Authority for use by individuals with serious or terminal illness. |
| Poland | Illegal, but may not be enforced for small amounts, legal below 0.3% THC | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Poland Since 2011, prosecutors can choose not to prosecute possession of small quantities of cannabis for personal use if it is a first offense or if the person is drug dependent. Possession of large quantities of drugs can result in up to 10 years in prison. |
| Portugal | Decriminalized up to 25 g (7⁄8 oz) of herb or 5 g (3⁄16 oz) of hashish | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Portugal In 2001, Portugal became the first country in the world to decriminalize the use of all drugs. |
| Qatar | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Qatar |
| Romania | Illegal | Cannabis-derived drugs less than 0.2% THC can be prescribed | Main article: Cannabis in Romania Small quantities punishable by a large fine for first offenders or 6 months to 2 years in prison if the person has been convicted before. Possession of large amounts or trafficking is punishable by 2–7 years of jail time. Decriminalization proposed. Limited medical use approved in 2013. |
| Russia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Russia Possession of up to 6 g (1⁄5 oz) of cannabis (or 2 g, 1⁄20 oz of hashish) is an administrative offense, punishable by a fine of ₽5,000 or detention of up to 15 days. Possession of larger amounts is a criminal offense. Foreign nationals and stateless individuals who violate the law are subject to deportation regardless of the amount. |
| Rwanda | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Rwanda |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | Decriminalized up to 56 g (2 oz) | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Saint Kitts and Nevis |
| Saint Lucia | Decriminalized up to 30 g (1+1⁄16 oz) | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Saint Lucia |
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | Decriminalized up to 56 g (2 oz) | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
| Samoa | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Samoa |
| San Marino | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in San Marino |
| São Tomé and Príncipe | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in São Tomé and Principe |
| Saudi Arabia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Saudi Arabia Use and possession for personal use of any kind of recreational drugs is punishable by imprisonment if caught. Imprisonment for personal use can entail jail time of six months or more. Dealing and smuggling high amounts of drugs usually result in harsher prison time or even execution, although recently executions have been rare. Foreigners who use drugs might be deported. |
| Senegal | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Senegal |
| Serbia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Serbia Possession of small amounts is punishable by fine or imprisonment of up to 3 years. Sale and transportation punishable by imprisonment of 3–12 years. Cultivation punishable by imprisonment from 6 months to 5 years. Higher penalties for organized crime. |
| Seychelles | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Seychelles |
| Sierra Leone | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Sierra Leone Cannabis banned in 1920. |
| Singapore | Illegal | CBD only | Main article: Cannabis in Singapore Banned in 1870. Cannabis is a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, making it illegal to cultivate, sell, or possess. Those who are caught with 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) of cannabis or more are considered drug traffickers and are punished with a possible death penalty. In rare cases, permission has been granted to use cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals for treatment of epilepsy. |
| Slovakia | Illegal | CBD only | Main article: Cannabis in Slovakia Possession of small amounts punishable by up to 8 years in prison. In April 2012, The Wall Street Journal reported that Robert Fico, the incoming Slovak prime minister, might push for partial legalization of cannabis possession, and has argued for the legalization of possession of up to three doses of cannabis for personal use. |
| Slovenia | Decriminalized | Sativex, Marinol, CBD | Main article: Cannabis in Slovenia Cannabis-based drugs are legal for medicinal use, but not cannabis itself. Possession of any drug for personal use is decriminalized. |
| Solomon Islands | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the Solomon Islands |
| Somalia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Somalia |
| South Africa | Legal for possession, cultivation and use in private places but not for sale. | Use is legal, but no system for the dispensing of medicinal cannabis exists. | Main article: Cannabis in South Africa Private use and cultivation have been legal since September 2018. |
| South Sudan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in South Sudan |
| Spain | Decriminalized. Use and possession in private areas allowed for own consumption. Public possession or consumption can result in a fine. Cultivation for personal use allowed in private areas including Cannabis Social Clubs. | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Spain All actions related to cannabis for own consumption aren't considered criminal offenses, but misdemeanors punishable by a fine. Cannabis trafficking, including sale, import, or cultivation for sale, is punishable by jail time. Legalized in Catalonia in 2017, but that law was challenged by the state and declared unconstitutional. Cultivation in private areas for own consumption is allowed if the plants cannot be seen from the street or other public spaces. |
| Sri Lanka | Illegal | Legalized by amendment made in colonial law by 1980s and through the Ayurveda Act. | Main article: Cannabis in Sri Lanka The sale of cannabis is decriminalized for traditional medicine vendors and it is commonly used in Ayurvedic traditional medicines. |
| Sudan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Sudan |
| Suriname | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Suriname Cannabis was banned in Suriname in the early 20th century, having been popularized there by Asian immigrants. |
| Sweden | Illegal | Legal under limited circumstances for patients who obtain a license. | Main article: Cannabis in Sweden All cannabis-related activity illegal. The national police runs a "disturb and annoy" program aimed at users supported by the national "zero tolerance" policy. |
| Switzerland | Decriminalized. Legal below 1.0% THC. | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Switzerland Since 2017, consuming cannabis in Switzerland may result in a fine, but possession of up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) without evidence of consumption is not penalized; and as of 2023, confiscated amounts under this limit must be returned to the individual. |
| Syria | Illegal, widely unenforced since the start of the Syrian civil war | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Syria If someone is considered an addict by the Syrian government then they face no criminal penalties for drug possession. |
| Taiwan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Taiwan Cannabis is a schedule 2 narcotic in the ROC, and possession can result in up to 3 years imprisonment. |
| Tajikistan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Tajikistan |
| Tanzania | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Tanzania |
| Thailand | Legal for possession, sale, and home cultivation. 0.2% THC limit applies to processed products such as oils and edibles, but not the cannabis plant. | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Thailand Criminalized in 1935, medical use legalized in 2018, and recreational use legalized in 2022 for those aged 20 and over. Import and export of cannabis are still highly regulated. Cannabis smoking in public areas is prohibited. |
| Timor-Leste | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Timor-Leste |
| Togo | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Togo |
| Tonga | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Tonga |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Decriminalized up to 30 g (1+1⁄16 oz), cultivation of 4 plants per adult | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Trinidad and Tobago Banned in 1925. Decriminalized in 2019. |
| Tunisia | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Tunisia Banned in 1953. Using or possessing entails 1–5 years of imprisonment and 1000–3000 dinars (around $500–1500). |
| Turkey | Illegal | Sativex | Main article: Cannabis in Turkey Medical cultivation legal in 19 provinces. With permission, this can also be conducted in other provinces as well. Consuming any drug is illegal and requires juridical process. Possessing, purchasing, or receiving any illegal drug is punishable by 1–2 years of prison, treatment, or probation. Sale and supply is punishable by a prison term of 5–10 years, and production or trafficking by a minimum term of 10 years. |
| Turkmenistan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Turkmenistan |
| Tuvalu | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Tuvalu |
| Uganda | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Uganda |
| Ukraine | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Ukraine In December 2023, Parliament adopted a bill to legalize medical cannabis on second reading. It was signed into law by President Zelensky on 15 February 2024. |
| United Arab Emirates | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in the United Arab Emirates In 2008, even the smallest amounts of the drug could lead to a mandatory 4-year prison sentence. |
| United Kingdom | Illegal, but a cannabis warning or an on-the-spot fine ("Penalty Notice for Disorder") may be issued instead of prosecution for simple possession. | Cannabis-derived medicines may be prescribed only by a specialist consultant. | Main article: Cannabis in the United Kingdom Banned in 1928. A class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Limited medical use legal since 1 November 2018 when prescribed by a specialist consultant, not a GP. Guidance: only prescribe when clearly beneficial and no other option available. |
| United States | Legalized in 24 states, 3 territories, and the District of Columbia – but illegal at federal level. Decriminalized in another 7 states.See also: Legalization of non-medical cannabis in the United States | Legalized in 39 states, 4 territories, and the District of Columbia – but illegal at federal level. See also: Medical cannabis in the United States | Main articles: Cannabis in the United States and Legality of cannabis by U.S. jurisdiction See also: Cannabis on American Indian reservations Cannabis remains a Schedule I drug at federal level, prohibiting even its medical use with narrow exceptions. The Rohrabacher–Farr amendment prevents federal enforcement in states that have legalized medical, however. No such protections exist regarding recreational, but the federal government has so far generally not intervened. Recognized Indian reservations are allowed to legalize for either use under a policy announced in 2014. Every U.S. state that has legalized recreational use has set a mandatory legal minimum age of 21 for purchase, possession, and use. In 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Justice indicated they were planning to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III. |
| Uruguay | Legal, but buying prohibited for non-residents. Cultivation allowed up to six plants. Cannabis Social Clubs authorized up to 45 members | Legal for all uses. | Main article: Cannabis in Uruguay Legal since late 2013. Buyers must be eighteen or older, residents of Uruguay, and must register with the authorities. Authorities grow the cannabis that can be sold legally. Non-profit Cannabis Clubs can also operate. The minimum age to purchase or obtain cannabis in Uruguay is 18. |
| Uzbekistan | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Uzbekistan Opiates, cannabis and other plants containing psychotropic substances are illegal. |
| Vanuatu | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Vanuatu |
| Vatican City | Illegal | Illegal | |
| Venezuela | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Venezuela Possession of up to 20 g (3⁄4 oz) of marijuana or 5 g (3⁄16 oz) of genetically modified marijuana for commercial purposes is punishable by 1–2 years in prison at judge's discretion. If deemed to be for personal consumption, the user is subject to security measures involving rehabilitation and detoxification procedures. |
| Vietnam | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Vietnam |
| Yemen | Illegal | Illegal | Main article: Cannabis in Yemen |
| Zambia | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Zambia |
| Zimbabwe | Illegal | Legal | Main article: Cannabis in Zimbabwe |
| Country/Territory | Recreational | Medical | Notes |
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