Find out about the legal status of medical and recreational marijuana in Croatia. Is marijuana illegal? Better safe than sorry!
Croatia stunned the world by legalizing medical cannabis use in 2015. This beautiful, historic country became a leader on this issue in the Balkans as a result. An MS patient was detained by police for growing cannabis plants to make into cannabis oil. His case polarized the nation and reform quickly followed.
That said, reform is only of the medical kind.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA IN CROATIA
Medical use is legal here if you are diagnosed with certain conditions. This includes AIDS, cancer, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. You are also required to purchase your medication from a licensed pharmacy. Prescriptions are only good for up to 30 days and are issued digitally. Purchases are limited to 7.5 grams per month.
All legitimate medical cannabis is also now imported, from Canada, in liquid and capsule form.
RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA IN CROATIA
Recreational use remains illegal. Since 2013, possession has been essentially decriminalized, but you could easily face a fine.
The biggest issue here is being caught with the actual cannabis plant or dried bud. This is not technically legal, even for patients, as all legitimate medical supplies are liquid.
A “small amount” of marijuana for personal use is a ticketable offense. Fines range from about €700 - €3,500, depending on the severity of the crime and amount in your possession. If you are caught selling it, expect criminal penalties. Mandatory sentencing of three years, minimum, is also imposed.
Drug trafficking is a major concern here. Authorities are trying to limit the whole issue of home grow while responding to domestic medical need.
