Cannabis Laws in Europe: Where Weed is Legal, Decriminalized, or Strictly Prohibited [2025]

Cannabis laws across Europe vary significantly from full legalization to strict prohibition. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, understanding the regulations in each country is essential to avoid legal trouble and find cannabis-friendly destinations. Below, we break down the legal status of marijuana in every EU country, linking to in-depth guides for each nation.

Fully Legal or Most Progressive Cannabis Policies

Some European countries have embraced legalization, allowing recreational use or regulated home cultivation.

• Malta – The first EU country to fully legalize recreational cannabis, allowing home cultivation and cannabis clubs.
• Luxembourg – Personal cultivation of up to four plants is legal, but sales remain restricted.
• Netherlands – Known for its famous coffee shops, but cannabis remains technically illegal under a tolerance policy.
• Germany – Recently passed cannabis legalization, allowing adult-use possession and home cultivation with plans for social clubs.
• Switzerland – Not in the EU, but allows low-THC cannabis and is testing regulated recreational sales through pilot programs.

Decriminalized Cannabis: Personal Use Allowed but Not Fully Legal

Many European nations have decriminalized small amounts of cannabis, meaning possession might result in a fine but no criminal record.

• Portugal – All drugs are decriminalized, including cannabis, with a focus on harm reduction and treatment.
• Spain – Private cannabis use and social clubs are allowed, but sales remain illegal.
• Italy – Personal possession is decriminalized, and medical cannabis is available with restrictions.
• Czech Republic – Decriminalized small amounts; medical cannabis is legal and widely available.
• Belgium – Adults over 18 can possess up to 3 grams or grow one plant for personal use.
• Austria – Possession is decriminalized, and medical marijuana is legal with strict access.
• Croatia – Personal possession is decriminalized, and medical cannabis is available through pharmacies.
• Slovenia – Small amounts are decriminalized, and medical use is permitted under strict regulations.
• Estonia – Carrying up to 7.5 grams is an administrative offense, not a criminal one.

Strictly Controlled: Medical Cannabis Legal but No Recreational Use

Several EU countries have legalized medical cannabis while maintaining strict penalties for recreational use.

• Poland – Medical cannabis is available in pharmacies, but recreational use is illegal.
• Ireland – Only limited medical cannabis access, no recreational decriminalization.
• Greece – Medical marijuana is legal, and licensed production is increasing.
• Romania – Medical cannabis is legal only in processed pharmaceutical forms.
• Cyprus – Medical marijuana is allowed, but recreational use remains strictly illegal.
• Lithuania – Allows cannabis-based medicines but bans personal use.
• Latvia – Only allows certain cannabis-derived medications.
• Slovakia – Medical marijuana is still highly restricted.

Strictest Cannabis Laws in Europe

Some European nations maintain zero-tolerance policies, where even small amounts of cannabis can lead to serious legal consequences.

• Sweden – One of the strictest cannabis laws in Europe, with harsh penalties for personal use.
• Finland – Medical cannabis is available, but recreational use is strictly illegal.
• Denmark – Has a medical cannabis program, but recreational use remains criminalized.
• Hungary – Zero tolerance for cannabis, and drug offenses carry severe punishments.
• Bulgaria – Cannabis is classified as a hard drug, with strict penalties for possession.
• Slovakia – One of Europe’s toughest anti-cannabis policies.

The Future of Cannabis in Europe

Cannabis reform is accelerating across Europe, with Germany, Malta, and Luxembourg leading the way toward legalization. Many other countries are moving towards decriminalization or expanding medical cannabis programs. With public opinion shifting and economic benefits becoming clearer, Europe could soon see broader cannabis legalization across multiple nations.

Conclusion: Where is Weed Legal in Europe?

While only a handful of countries have fully legalized cannabis, decriminalization and medical marijuana programs are expanding across the continent. If you’re traveling, always check local regulations to avoid legal risks. Stay informed by following Marihuana Today for the latest updates on cannabis laws in Europe.

Want to learn more? Click on any country above to read in-depth cannabis laws, regulations, and cultural insights.