Portugal Weed Laws: Decriminalized Doesn’t Mean Legal
Portugal took a relaxing turn in 2001 when it decriminalized the possession of small amounts of all drugs for personal use, including cannabis. This was a public health strategy move aiming to treat drug use as a health issue rather than a criminal one.
Now, the possession of up to 25 grams of cannabis flower or 5 grams of hashish for personal use is not seen as a criminal offence that's punishable with arrest or imprisonment; instead, it may lead to a fine.
In 2018, the Portuguese government legalized cannabis for medical use, allowing patients with specific health conditions to have access to the plant as an alternative to traditional treatments.
Below you can find the summary of the cannabis laws in Portugal.
Is Weed Legal in Portugal?
No, cannabis is illegal in Portugal. However, the possession of up to 25 grams of cannabis flower or 5 grams of hashish for personal use is decriminalized and may result in a fine.
What Does Decriminalized Mean?
Cannabis decriminalization means the plant remains technically illegal, but possession is no longer treated as a criminal offense. Instead of arrest or imprisonment, people found with amounts below the decriminalized threshold will receive a warning, fine, referral to a drug treatment program, or another non-criminal penalty.
By removing criminal penalties, decriminalization helps reduce the social and economic impact of enforcing cannabis laws, such as policing, court proceedings, and jail time.
Is It Legal To Use Weed In Public In Portugal?
No, using cannabis in pubic is illegal and may result in a fine or arrest.
Is It Legal to Use Weed in the Home in Portugal?
Using cannabis is illegal in Portugal, but private use in the home is tolerated.
Is Medical Cannabis Legal in Portugal?
Yes, medical cannabis is legal in Portugal and available to patients with specific health conditions.
Can You Grow Your Own Weed Plants In Portugal?
No, cultivating cannabis for medical or recreational purposes is illegal in Portugal.
Is CBD Legal in Portugal?
Yes, hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.2% THC is legal in Portugal.
