Thanks to its many potential health benefits, cannabidiol has steadily gained popularity across Europe, to the point where it is now legal in most European countries. Be aware, however, that each country has its own rules regarding the cultivation, sale, purchase, and consumption of CBD. It is therefore strongly recommended that you familiarize yourself with these rules to avoid any unpleasant surprises—and, above all, to ensure a stress-free and completely legal experience.
Here is a summary of everything you need to know about the various regulations and laws currently in effect in Europe regarding CBD.
What is the EU's position on the CBD?
It is impossible to discuss European countries without mentioning the European Union (EU). The EU has always taken a firm stance on a wide range of issues, including CBD.
In fact, when it comes to CBD, the EU supports the sale of CBD as long as it contains no more than 0.2% THC. However, additional restrictions apply to CBD-based foods. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) requires that any food product containing cannabidiol be approved in advance by a national food authority before it can be marketed.
Germany and Austria: Yes to CBD, but with THC levels below 0.20% and 0.30%
Our German neighbors and Austrian citizens benefit from relatively flexible legislation. CBD use is fully legal and widespread in those countries. The main legal requirement is that CBD-based products must not exceed a THC concentration of 0.20% in Germany and 0.30% in Austria.
In Germany, since March 2017, it has become increasingly common to prescribe medical cannabis. A quick note: Recreational cannabis, meanwhile, is in the process of being legalized, with a bill expected by the end of 2022.
Belgium and Denmark: Medical CBD by Prescription
Belgium and Denmark have similar CBD laws. The sale and use of CBD are generally permitted there for medical reasons. This is based on prescription.
Apart from this specific case, any extract derived from the cannabis plant is illegal. This stems from a Belgian law dating back to 1912.
However, a minor change was noted in 2019. CBD flowers with a THC concentration of less than 0.20% were reclassified from the narcotics category to the tobacco products category.
Croatia and Bulgaria: Over-the-counter sales of products containing less than 0.20% THC
Unlike other countries, Croatia and Bulgaria seem to genuinely trust in the supposed benefits of cannabidiol. That is why, in these two European countries, CBD is freely available in any form at numerous stores located throughout the country. The basic rule, however, is that these products must not exceed the critical threshold of 0.20% THC.
In Croatia, in particular, it is important to note that medical cannabis has been legal there since 2015. Symptoms of certain conditions, such as AIDS or multiple sclerosis, can be alleviated with medication obtained from a pharmacy with a prescription. In addition, the cultivation of industrial hemp is legal, but smoking cannabis in public places remains strictly prohibited.
Spain: A Never-Ending Debate
The situation in Spain is a bit more complex. Spanish legislation regarding CBD prohibits any so-called therapeutic treatments based on cannabis. Catalonia is the only exception.
The only products considered legal are those derived from industrial hemp. However, industrial hemp is permitted solely for the production and sale of varieties of Cannabis Sativa L.
An interesting feature in Spain: the private use of cannabis has been fully decriminalized, while its use, possession, and importation in public are illegal.
Greece and Hungary: Still the 0.20% THC Limit
Whether in Greece or Hungary, there is nothing in particular to report. The purchase and use of CBD are fully legal and widespread in these countries, provided that CBD-based products do not exceed a THC content of 0.20%.
Ireland: CBD oils made exclusively by cold-pressing
Ireland, for its part, is making headlines for its regulations on CBD oils. In fact, to ensure these oils comply with regulations, they must be produced using a cold-pressing process. Other methods, such as the use of CO2 or solvents, are strictly illegal.
The rule limiting the THC content to a maximum of 0.20% also applies.
Italy: A European record of 0.5% has been authorized
Among all European countries, Italy stands out with a record-high tolerance level of 0.5% for THC. This reflects the Italian government’s clear commitment to establishing itself as a major player in the industrial cultivation of hemp-based and CBD products.
Slovakia: Cannabidiol Classified as a Narcotic
Unlike in Italy, the situation is completely different in Slovakia. CBD is outright banned there, as it is considered a narcotic. This is important to keep in mind to avoid any unexpected police checks.
Luxembourg: A Threshold Set at 0.3% with Authorization for Medical Use
Finally, let’s wrap up this comparison with Luxembourg. It is perfectly legal to purchase and consume CBD in Luxembourg. Medical cannabis has been permitted there since 2018, and CBD products may contain up to 0.30% THC.
As you can see, while CBD is mostly legal in Europe, each country has its own restrictions. If you’re traveling in Europe, be sure to check the regulations in effect in the countries you’re visiting.
