Marijuana is prohibited in Portugal, and neither its sale nor purchase is permitted. In 2001, Portugal became the first nation in the world to decriminalize the possession and use of all drugs, including marijuana, in an effort to combat drug abuse and reduce drug-related crime.
Under Portuguese law, possession of minor amounts of narcotics for personal use, including marijuana, is regarded as a civil offense rather than a criminal one. This means that people caught with small amounts of illegal drugs may face fines or other civil penalties but will not face criminal charges or jail time.
But it's important to remember that having, using, or selling marijuana is still illegal in Portugal and can get you in trouble with the law.
What will happen if you're caught with weed?
If you are caught with marijuana in Portugal, you could be fined or given other types of punishment. Under Portuguese law, possession of small quantities of narcotics, including marijuana, for personal use is a civil offense and not a criminal offense.
If you are discovered in possession of larger quantities of marijuana or are involved in its sale or distribution, you may face criminal charges and jail. If you are caught with marijuana in Portugal, your exact punishment will depend on the details of your case and how the authorities decide to handle it.
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Use of weed for medicinal purposes
Medical marijuana is not allowed in Portugal. But the Portuguese government has expressed its interest in studying the possible medical benefits of marijuana and has taken steps to make research into the medical use of cannabis-based products possible.
Since 2018, the Portuguese Parliament has allowed the growing, making, and selling of cannabis-based products for medical and scientific reasons.
It's important to stress that in Portugal, having, using, or selling marijuana for non-medical reasons is still illegal.
Few stores in the city sell CBD, which is a legal alternative to marijuana.The use of weed for medicinal purposes is legal in Portugal. It is primarily prescribed to alleviate symptoms in patients suffering from certain medical conditions. A prescription from a registered healthcare professional is needed for its procurement.
Of the many compounds found in cannabis, two stand out for their potential therapeutic applications. These are delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component that gives marijuana its 'high', and cannabidiol (CBD), which does not possess psychoactive properties but has shown promise in managing conditions like epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain.
If you need THC, CBD, or any other cannabis-based medicine for therapeutic use in Portugal, it is crucial to proceed under the guidance of an expert. In this regard, your best course of action would be to consult with an expert in Portugal's private health insurance sector who can guide you on how to procure the prescribed medication while adhering to all legal stipulations. Fill out this form to get in touch with a private health insurance expert who can guide you on the most appropriate and legal ways to access medicinal cannabis in Portugal.
Are there marijuana coffee shops in Portugal?
There are no coffee shops in Portugal that legally sell marijuana or allow its use on the premises. Marijuana is illegal in Portugal, and it is against the law to own, use, or sell it. Few stores in the city sell CBD, which is a legal alternative to marijuana.
Where people usually buy and sell weed
The most common places that people try to buy weed are in tourist hotspots or through online forums. The problem with touristy hotpots is that they're often filled with drug dealers who will sell you fake drugs to maximize their profits. They are confident you will never see them again, and they consider it low risk.
As for online forums, this is common in all countries, and the risks associated with it are obvious.
Navigating Portugal's Legal Cannabis Landscape
It's essential to be aware that buying weed in Portugal remains illegal. However, CBD products with low THC content are legally available. For those interested in Portugal's cannabis scene, it's crucial to stay informed about the current legal framework and abide by the law.
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About Movingto
Movingto is a leading immigration law firm that specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the complex process of relocating to Portugal. With a team of experienced lawyers and immigration experts, Movingto.io provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
Why Choose Movingto?
- Expertise and Experience: Our lawyers have extensive knowledge of Portuguese immigration law and years of experience assisting clients with various visa applications, including the D7 Visa, Golden Visa, Startup Visa, and Family Reunion Visa.
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Whether you are an entrepreneur seeking to establish a business in Portugal, a retiree looking to enjoy the country's favorable tax regime, or a family seeking to reunite in Portugal, Movingto.io is here to guide you every step of the way.
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