In what countries is Cannabis legal?

Cannabis, also often termed marijuana or weed, is derived from the Cannabis plant, most commonly the Cannabis Sativa plant. The Cannabis Sativa plant has more than 500 compounds, and CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of them.

Another prominent compound is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound of Cannabis. THC is transmitted to the brain through the bloodstream, and it is why consumption of Cannabis in excessive amounts can cause a hallucinogenic effect or get you high.

While Cannabis is regarded as an intoxicating agent in many regions of the world, it is also being regarded for its many medicinal benefits as clinical evidence has shed light on the various uses of the drug for the treatment of a wide range of medical conditions.

However, since there is still a lot of controversy surrounding the use of Cannabis, it is strictly banned in certain countries, while others have chosen to legalize it. Therefore, it is important to know where it is legal to carry Cannabis and where it is illegal so you can ensure that you are not breaking any laws if you wish to carry Cannabis while traveling.

Here is a quick insight into the legal status of Cannabis according to the regional distribution.

America and proximities

When you are traveling in the Americas, it is advised to be discreet while using (smoking or vaping) Cannabis even where it is legal as most individuals still frown upon its use, while many disapprove of the smell.

Many countries in South America have legalized the use of Cannabis, so there is more social acceptance. However, the sale and cultivation are still not allowed in those areas.

One country in the continent where the use of Cannabis is openly accepted is Jamaica. Other countries where it is legal or semi-legal include Ecuador, Mexico, Uruguay, Argentina, Peru and Columbia etc. However, wherever you are traveling other than Jamaica, if you want to carry Cannabis, make sure that it is under the legal limit and declare the purpose of carrying it, i.e., it is for your personal use and not intended for sale.

In Canada it is completely legalized for people over 19 years to consume THC. So you can mail order marijuana from a reputable and licensed dispensary without risking any legal implications.

Europe

Europe remains divided over the legalization of Cannabis. Some countries like Portugal, Russia, Switzerland, Croatia, Spain, the Czech Republic and Ukraine have chosen to decriminalize it, while in others, it is illegal.

In any case, it is advised to carry small amounts of Cannabis while traveling inside Europe. Otherwise, authorities may mistake your intentions and consider you to be a seller. It is also advised to be discreet with the use of Cannabis because if you are found to be using it in an area where Cannabis is illegal, you might face legal implications.

Asia

The use of Cannabis, for a large part, is banned in Asia. The only exception to the rule in South Korea is allowed for medical purposes only. You may be allowed to use Cannabis in countries like India and Cambodia, while in Muslim majority countries like KSA, Malaysia and Pakistan, and others like Japan and Singapore, it is considered a grave offense to carry and use Cannabis.

As a foreigner, if you are traveling across any of these countries, it is advised to be careful and avoid using or carrying Cannabis as you may be subjected to the country’s respective laws in case of violation.