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Medical: legal, limited
Recreational: illegal
Medical cannabis has been legal in Lithuania in 2018, but the program is limited and has run into issues. There is no recreational cannabis in Lithuania, but small possession and personal use are administrative offenses punishable by a fine or community service.
In 2013, the country legalized growing industrial hemp.
Cannabis in Lithuania
Lithuania has a complicated relationship with cannabis. The country was the last EU member to allow industrial hemp in 2013 but created a medical program in 2018. In 2021, Parliament voted against fully decriminalizing the cannabis plant, but personal use and possession of small amounts are decriminalized.
Possible penalties
Possession of small amounts of cannabis (for personal use) and personal consumption are typically classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by fines, community service, or “restriction of liberty.” Buying, growing, selling, or intent to sell the plant are criminal charges that can carry jail time.
Lithuania’s medical marijuana program
Lithuania has had a medical marijuana program since 2018. The legislation came as somewhat of a surprise, given the country’s historic anti-cannabis stance. Patients with qualifying conditions, including cancer, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and HIV/AIDS can access cannabis-derived medicines with a prescription.
However, the program has run into issues because the law requires research proving the efficacy of these medicines for each condition before doctors can recommend it, severely limiting access to cannabis medicines. As of July 2022, at least one publication reported no patients have access to cannabis medicine.
CBD regulations
Lithuania was the last country in the EU to legalize industrial hemp in 2013, and since then the program has grown, differentiating between cannabis and hemp by the THC content in the plant. In 2021, the government legalized using the entire hemp plant in products, as long as there is 0.2% THC or less. However, confusing regulations and limited ways to sell the plant have many farmers turning away from hemp. Additionally, the Drug, Tobacco and Alcohol Control Department (DBACD) has a zero-tolerance policy for any product containing THC, so only products that contain 0% THC can be sold.
Certain types of CBD products, like oils, can be found in Lithuania.
Can you grow your own weed?
No, it is not legal to grow cannabis plants in Lithuania. Industrial hemp plants can only be cultivated by farmers who have obtained a permit from the government.
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