Is Weed Legal in Aruba?

Aruba, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture, is a popular choice for travelers. But for those asking, "Is weed legal in Aruba?", the answer is no.

Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Aruba?

No, medical cannabis is currently illegal in Aruba. While Parliament has held discussions about legalizing medical cannabis, primarily for economic development, these efforts have not yet resulted in any laws passed. 

Aruba does not have any licensed dispensaries or medical cannabis programs. Patients cannot legally purchase medical cannabis on the island. There are no legal cannabis edibles, concentrates, or other THC-rich products for citizens or tourists.

Is Weed Legal in Aruba for Recreational Use?

No, recreational cannabis is not legal in Aruba. The island maintains a prohibition on the possession, sale, cultivation, and consumption of cannabis for recreational purposes.

While Aruba is partially controlled by the cannabis-friendly nation, the Netherlands, Aruba does not have "coffeeshops" or any other businesses where adult-use sales or consumption are allowed. 

Because recreational cannabis is illegal, there are no legal possession limits for it. Any amount of cannabis containing THC is considered illegal. Anyone caught with cannabis, even in small quantities, can face penalties, including heavy fines and imprisonment.

The laws and penalties apply equally to both residents and tourists. Claiming ignorance of the law is not likely to qualify as a viable excuse. And in most cases, tourists are not granted leniency. When visiting the island, visitors are advised to respect and comply with Aruba's laws to avoid any legal issues during their stay. 

Is CBD Legal in Aruba?

Unlike THC, yes, CBD is legal in Aruba. That said, the THC threshold is quite low. Products must contain less than 0.2% THC to qualify as a legal CBD product. This aligns with many international standards for hemp-derived CBD. However, Aruba is one of the more restrictive countries, even more so than the United States, where the federal limit for hemp-derived CBD is 0.3% THC. 

Where Can I Buy Cannabis in Aruba?

Aruba has no licensed dispensaries, cannabis stores, or other retailers to buy products containing THC. The only cannabis exception is hemp-derived CBD products containing less than .2% of THC. 

Select anecdotes may make it seem like purchasing cannabis is possible in Aruba. Residents and visitors should note that medical and adult-use recreational cannabis remains prohibited. Engaging in unlawful transactions may lead to significant legal risks. 

What Types of Products are Available in Aruba?

As a direct consequence of the legal status of cannabis in Aruba, the types of products legally available are limited. In most cases, CBD is sold as: 

• Concentrated oil 
• Gel capsules
• Topicals

Can You Grow Cannabis in Aruba?

Cannabis cultivation is not allowed under Aruban law. Despite its fertile soil and the region's deep history with the plant, Aruba's laws prohibit individuals from growing THC-rich cannabis for any purpose. 

The only exception is for industrial hemp. In 2020, reports suggested that Aruba was considering expanding the permission to allow for medical cannabis cultivation. That, however, did not progress into law. As such, the nation currently does not have a legal pathway for anyone to grow cannabis for personal or commercial purposes. 

Can I Travel With Cannabis to Aruba?

No, it is not legal to travel to Aruba with cannabis products. This rule applies to medical and recreational use, even if a traveler has a valid medical cannabis card from their home state or country. 

If caught with illegal cannabis, individuals could face stiff penalties.

Anyone looking to legally enjoy cannabis while in Aruba will need to stick with legalized CBD products, which may provide some relaxation without any intoxicating effects.

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.