Switzerland's Weed Laws & Legal Grey Areas Explained

Like many countries in Europe, Switzerland has also decriminalized small amounts of cannabis, making the possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis for personal use punishable with a fine of 100 Francs. 

But Switzerland's cannabis friendly relationship isn't anything new; before the nation's decriminalization laws came into effect, cannabis with no more than 1% THC was legally being sold to citizens and residents in the mountainous region since 2011. 

Switzerland has also had a medical marijuana program in place but the issuing of prescriptions

Before an amendment to the Narcotics Act in August 2022, Swtizerlands medical marijuana program was  extremely limited in prescriptions due to physicians having to get a permit from the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health to issue a prescription to a patient. However, physicians can now administer treatments without the approval of the Federal Office of Public Health.  

Below you can find the summary of the cannabis laws in Switzerland. 

Is Weed Legal in Switzerland?     

Yes, cannabis with less than 1% THC is legal in Switzerland. 

Is Weed Over 1% THC Legal in Switzerland? 

No, cannabis with over 1% THC is not legal in Switzerland. However, the possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis for personal use is not punishable with an arrest or prison sentence; instead the person may get a fine of 100 Francs. 

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 Switzerland?  

No, using cannabis in pubic is illegal. 

Is It Legal to Use Weed in the Home in Switzerland?   

It's legal to use cannabis that has less than 1% THC in the home. 

Is Medical Cannabis Legal in Switzerland?     

Yes, medical cannabis is legal in Switzerland and available to patients with specific health conditions.   

Is CBD Legal in Switzerland?    

Yes, CBD containing less than 1% THC is legal in Switzerland.