Where is cannabis legal in Europe?
As of 2025, three European countries have fully legalized recreational cannabis for adults: Germany, Malta, and Luxembourg. Each allows possession and home cultivation, but public use rules differ. No other European country has fully legalized recreational sales nationwide. Some countries have medical programs, decriminalized possession, or tolerated private clubs.
where is cannabis legal in the us
Adult-use legal countries
Germany
Germany legalized recreational cannabis on April 1, 2024. Adults can possess up to 25 grams in public and up to 50 grams at home. They can grow up to three cannabis plants. From July 1, 2024, cannabis social clubs can cultivate and distribute cannabis to members. Public consumption is banned near schools, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
Malta
Malta legalized recreational cannabis in December 2021. Adults can possess up to 7 grams and grow up to four plants at home. Non-profit cannabis associations can distribute up to 7 grams per day and 50 grams per month to members. Public consumption is prohibited.
Where is Cannabis Legal for Tourists
Luxembourg
Luxembourg legalized home cultivation and consumption in July 2023. Adults can grow up to four plants per household. Consuming cannabis in public is illegal and can result in a fine. Buying seeds is legal, but selling cannabis remains illegal.
Medical cannabis in Europe
Many European countries have legal medical cannabis programs, though access varies. Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Poland, and Portugal allow medical cannabis with a prescription. Some countries, like Spain, only permit specific cannabis-based medicines such as Sativex. Medical cannabis is not the same as recreational legalization.
Decriminalized countries
Several European countries have decriminalized small amounts of cannabis for personal use but have not legalized it. Portugal decriminalized all drugs, including cannabis, in 2001. Czech Republic decriminalized possession of up to 10 grams and growing up to five plants. Spain tolerates private cannabis clubs in regions like Catalonia, but federal law bans sales.
Where cannabis is illegal
Most European countries still ban recreational cannabis. This includes France, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Greece, Hungary, and Poland. Even in countries with tolerance policies, like the Netherlands, production and large-scale sales are not legal.
Traveling in Europe with cannabis
Do not assume that legality in one country applies across borders. Crossing a border with cannabis is illegal in most cases. Even within the Schengen Area, transporting cannabis between countries can lead to arrest. Always check local laws before traveling.