Countries Where Weed is Legal

The legalization of marijuana is a controversial topic around the globe. Some progressive governments, like Canada's, made both medicinal and recreational cannabis legal to possess and sell. And other places, like Sweden, still perceive the drug as harmful. 

If you're traveling or deciding where to travel, you need to know what the laws and regulations are around the use of cannabis in the country you are in.

What's the Difference Between Decriminalization and Legalization? 

Decriminalization and legalization are completely different, yet often confused with one another. Decriminalization just means there are no criminal penalties associated with the act. Decriminalization may replace criminal penalties with civil penalties, though. Meaning you could still have to pay a fine, or agree to a treatment program, etc. 

Drug Legalization removes all penalties for possession and use of cannabis. However, regulations are usually put in place to manage where and how cannabis products can be produced, sold, and consumed. 

The Verdict on Weed 

Marijuana is still perceived more negatively and positively around the world, making it illegal in the majority of countries. With that being said, many nations have legalized cannabis for medicinal use, but still don't tolerate recreational use. 

The legalization or Marijuana is still a progressive concept. Uruguay was the first country to fully legalize the drug in 2013. Canada was the second, and only other country to legalize the production, sale, and consumption of cannabis- four years later, in 2018. 

We've created this chart to help distinguish the current state of cannabis regulations around the world. But keep in mind that we've kept the chart basic to make it simple to understand. Some of these countries listed as" legal medicinal use" require you to have a license to purchase, and some countries laws differ based on region. Like the U.S for example: medicinal marijuana use is legalized in 33 states, 4 territories, and the District of Columbia – but illegal at a federal level. 

If you're seriously considering going to one of these countries, we recommend doing a bit more research on the cannabis laws implemented by their government by looking at their official government website.