Is weed legal in Portugal?

CANNABIS laws in Portugal are regarded as among the most progressive in the world. 

However, despite those perceptions, there remains some confusion about how legal cannabis actually is.

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Possession, use and cultivation of cannabis is a controversial subject matterCredit: Getty

Is weed legal in Portugal?

In 2001, the Portuguese government made the decision to decriminalize the personal use (a 10-day supply) of all drugs, including cannabis.

The government implemented the change in an effort to combat drug abuse and reduce drug-related crime – whilst also focusing on treatment.

As such, the overall numbers of drug users in the country has reportedly decreased.

However, despite there being no criminal penalties, these changes did not legalize drug use in Portugal.

Drugs are still confiscated and possession may result in administrative penalties such as fines or community service.

Furthermore, if you are caught with more than the legal amount, you could potentially be arrested and prosecuted for drug trafficking.

In 2018, medical marijuana was legalised in Portugal.

However, it is subject to conditions and must be prescribed by a doctor.

Only those with cannabis licenses can obtain medical marijuana from licensed pharmacies and dispensaries.

Can I buy weed legally in Portugal?

While the substance has been decriminalized for consumption, selling and trafficking cannabis remains illegal.

These crimes are taken seriously and can lead to imprisonment.

Anyone caught supplying or trafficking the substance could face a lengthy prison sentence of anywhere between one and 12 years, depending on the seriousness of the offence.

Is it legal to grow weed in Portugal?

Personal cultivation of cannabis in Portugal remains illegal.

Furthermore, the sale of tools and equipment related to growing the drug is also considered illegal.

When the government decriminalized the possession of small amounts of cannabis in 2001, they also considered decriminalizing the cultivation of marijuana for personal use – but ultimately decided against it.

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