Introduction

From the local dispensaries in Lisbon to the vivid hemp scenes in Faro, uncover the thriving cannabis laws in Portugal culture with our trending Cannabis Travel Guide. Learn about local laws, insider tips and find out top CBD shops for a fascinating cannabis adventure in Portugal.

Overview of Portugal’s Unique Cannabis Laws

The cannabis law in Portugal since 2001 is a progressive approach which focuses on minimizing negative consequences thereby reducing risks and harm to marijuana users. To expand on this, the Portugal cannabis laws assess cases use and instead of imprisonment it offers education and treatment through legal and medical specialists. This has led to a drop in the rate of cannabis addiction in the country. However, this cautious approach does not extend to cannabis-related activities like buying, selling, growing and distribution which remain largely illegal and punishable.

What Tourists Should Know

Visitors should be aware of local cannabis laws in Portugal to avoid legal trouble. In Portugal, possessing or using a small quantity of marijuana for personal use is decriminalized. This means that instead of facing punishment, individuals found with a minor amount are assessed for possible addiction and may be offered treatment.

Personal Use and Consumption

The cannabis laws in Portugal allows for individual (one person) to possess a maximum amount of 25g of weed flower or 5g of hash usually expected to last for 10 days. This is the decriminalized limit nationwide. When found in possession of anything under this amount, your weed gets seized but you won’t get any criminal records or charges.

To expand on this, the law assesses cases of cannabis use and instead of imprisonment it offers education and treatment through legal and medical specialists.

Tourists should refrain from smoking or vaping weed in public (streets, beaches, bars etc) as this can attract the police for a stop and search. Always keep it discreet and private like at your home to avoid any trouble.

Recreational and Medical Cannabis Laws in Portugal

• Despite the progressive approach towards weed in Portugal, it remains illegal to grow, distribute, buy and sell marijuana nationwide. Legal dispensaries were banned as far back as 2013. Street dealers may approach you in tourists-friendly cities and party scenes but quality of weed is often questionable with hash being more common and easy to find.
• Industrial hemp and CBD which is cannabis with a THC percentage less than 0.2% is legal to grow with the right permits. Products from seeds and stalks can be found in shops being sold as wellness goods. Products from leaves and flowers are treated as controlled substance so are illegal and hard to find.
• Medical cannabis has been legal in Portugal as far back as 2018. It is usually available in pharmacies as capsules, oils or flower and can be accessed only through prescriptions or  doctor’s note.

Sanctions for Illegal Possession or Use of Cannabis in Portugal

• Personal possession of 25g or lower of weed flower and 5g or lower of hash is decriminalized as per the cannabis laws in Portugal. So, you will likely get a warning, or a fine ranging between 25 to 150 Euros or counselling and community service. Repeating the same offence a second time leads to a mandatory addiction treatment program and a bigger fine close to 500 Euros.
• Individuals found in possession of more than 25g of weed flower and 5g of hash with an intent to distribute or evidence of sales will get a criminal record and face legal charges with prison sentences ranging between 1 to 12 years and a substantial 20,000 Euros fine.
• Any home growing or cultivation of cannabis whether for medical or recreational use is subject to criminal charges and up to 4 years imprisonment.
• Individuals found using weed in public or selling small amounts of marijuana face criminal charges and fines of 100 to 500 Euros.

Conclusion on Cannabis Laws in Portugal

The Portuguese government’s positive stance towards cannabis sees it decriminalized but not legalized. This can be confusing and enticing to tourists to test limits. It is best to understand all the laws, gray areas and likely penalties before attempting to find weed in Portugal. For a safe and hassle-free experience, stick to decriminalized amounts and discreet private consumption.

FAQs on Portugal’s Cannabis Laws