As cannabis grows in acceptance, more patients want to know if and how they can access their medicine while traveling. European countries, like the UK, are popular vacation destinations, including for those who consume. So, is weed legal in the UK?
Is Medical Marijuana Legal in the UK?
Many travelers may wonder, “Is weed legal in the UK?” As of 2018, yes – but only medical cannabis. A specialist certified by the NHS can prescribe medicinal cannabis products to qualifying patients.
Unfortunately, the UK law that made medical cannabis legal hasn't yet paved the way for recreational use. It initially opened doors for only a small minority of patients to find relief. Despite its legalization, access to cannabis remains relatively restricted for UK residents. Stringent guidelines determine who can be prescribed and who can legally consume medical cannabis.
However, as acceptance of the plant grows, medical use is becoming more widely accessible. This is especially true when traveling to the UK, which is a plus for MMJ patients.
In the United States, not every state accepts out-of-state medical cannabis cards. In the UK, traveling patients may access their prescribed cannabis as long as they meet the legal requirements. Likewise, patients must have proper documentation. Traveling with cannabis without appropriate authorization can lead to legal complications.
Is Recreational Cannabis Legal in the UK?
No, recreational cannabis is not legal in the UK. Despite increasing public support, the UK government maintains its stance against legalizing cannabis for recreational use. As a result, the possession, sale, and use of recreational cannabis remain illegal under UK law.
The current legal framework stems from the Misuse of Drugs Act of 1971. It classified cannabis as a Class B drug. The classification meant that possession of cannabis could result in up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
These penalties also apply to both residents and foreigners without distinction. This is purely for recreational purposes, though. Medical cannabis patients are exempt, to a degree, from this rule.
Even after campaigns and discussions heated up to advocate for recreational legalization, there has yet to be any significant legislative progress.
Are edibles legal in the UK? When it comes to cannabis edibles, the same restrictions apply. Edibles are a form of cannabis and are, therefore, illegal for recreational purposes.
When will weed be legal in the UK? The future of cannabis legalization remains uncertain for the United Kingdom. Cannabis laws and regulations are ever-changing. For the time being, there's no clear timeline for when or if cannabis will become legal for recreational purposes.
Is CBD Legal in the UK?
CBD is legal in the UK but must meet specific regulatory standards. Unlike THC, CBD isn't a controlled substance under UK law.
However, legal CBD products cannot contain more than 1 milligram of THC per container, regardless of the container's size. The regulation is stricter than in the US, where CBD products may contain up to 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. This regulation distinction between the two countries may be one reason why the TSA permits only domestic plane travel with CBD.
The UK's legal framework in place for CBD ensures that cannabidiol products are free from intoxicating effects. That also means all CBD products within the UK must undergo rigorous testing to guarantee compliance. In addition, CBD products must derive from industrial hemp strains approved by both the EU and the UK.
Despite rigorous regulations, CBD is widely accessible across the United Kingdom. Its growing popularity has led to a diverse market of oils, tinctures, topicals, edibles, capsules, and more.
Where Can I Buy Cannabis in the UK?
The UK restricts buying cannabis to medical use only. UK residents can obtain cannabis through a prescription from an NHS-certified specialist doctor. Unfortunately, that means there are no legal dispensaries or retail outlets to access.
Patients with a valid prescription may acquire cannabis from a licensed pharmacy. These authorized pharmacies may dispense cannabis-based products for medicinal use. They can ensure the product meets regulatory standards for both safety and efficacy.
To legally buy medical cannabis in the UK, patients must first consult with an NHS-certified specialist. They can determine eligibility based on specific medical conditions. If cannabis is an appropriate treatment option, the specialist will issue a prescription. Patients need to carry this prescription when buying or using cannabis, as it can help avoid any legal issues.
What Types of Products are Available in the UK?
In the UK, medical cannabis patients have access to a variety of regulated products. NHS-certified specialists prescribe these products, and are available at licensed pharmacies.
CBD-dominant Flower
Cannabis flower in the UK contains high levels of CBD and varying levels of THC. The latter depends on the patient's prescription.
Pre-rolls
Pre-rolled cannabis joints provide patients with a convenient consumption method.
Carts (Cartridges)
Weed carts are popular for their ease of use and discretion. The THC content in these products can vary based on the patient's prescription.
Edibles
There are several types of edibles legal in the UK for medical cannabis patients. General consumer CBD products must contain less than one milligram of THC per container, including edibles. Gummies, chocolates, and other popular options can contain higher levels of THC as specified by the prescribing doctor.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is available with specific THC concentrations as needed for patients' conditions.
Infused Drinks
CBD-infused beverages offer an alternative consumption method to traditional edibles.
Topicals
CBD creams, balms, and lotions can be used for localized relief. The THC content here is tailored to the patient's needs.
Consumers who want to buy weed in the UK must have a valid prescription. Recreational users don't have legal access to anything beyond hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.2% THC.
Can You Grow Cannabis in the UK?
The UK government generally doesn't allow for the cultivation of cannabis - whether for recreational or medical use. Growing the plant is illegal without a proper license. Cultivating without a license is a criminal offense. It can lead to harsh legal penalties, such as fines and imprisonment.
The Home Office's Industrial Hemp Licensing Regime can grant a special license to allow someone to grow cannabis. These licenses are typically issued for scientific research, medical use, or industrial purposes.
Medical cannabis patients in the UK cannot grow their own cannabis. Some areas, like certain US states, allow patients to grow a certain number of plants in their homes. Unfortunately, the UK maintains a zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized cultivation. Instead, patients must obtain their higher-THC products through licensed pharmacies.
Can I Travel With Cannabis to the UK?
According to the UK government website, patients who aren’t UK residents must carry a letter of proof that their medicine was prescribed to them. The letter must include:
- The patient’s name
- Dates traveling to and from the UK
- A list of medications prescribed, including their quantity, strength, and serving sizes
- The signature of the specialist who prescribed the medication
Medical cannabis UK law states that non-resident medical patients may bring up to a three-month supply of medicine with them.
However, the fact that it’s medical cannabis makes it a controlled drug. As a result, the next step to be able to travel with medical cannabis within the UK as a non-resident is to contact the DFLU before traveling to the UK. For U.S. medical patients, unless you are prescribed an FDA cannabis-based medicine like Epidolex, it is illegal to bring cannabis into the UK. Not every circumstance will be approved by the DFLU for cannabis use, so it’ll be as illegal to bring weed into the UK as it is on a cruise.
Cannabis products, like edibles, are subject to the same regulations. Unfortunately, that means unauthorized importation is prohibited. Flying with edibles in a checked bag won’t cut it.
If you’re traveling to the UK as a medical cannabis patient, be sure to reach out to relevant parties to access your medicine when you get across the pond. Understand limitations and determine whether hemp-derived CBD products might be more suitable for your trip rather than higher-THC cannabis options.
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.
