Is Marijuana Legal in Belgium?

In Belgium, cannabis cultivation and the personal possession of cannabis are decriminalized. According to current Belgian law, personal use is defined as three grams of medical or recreational weed by those aged 18 years or older.

The cultivation of a single cannabis plant is also not considered a crime, but the plant will be confiscated. Being found in possession of more than three grams is punishable by fines of up to $200.

While it has been decriminalized, the public use, selling, and distribution of cannabis is a serious crime and is severely penalized.

Even if using medical cannabis, fines of up to $7,000 are issued to those caught smoking in a public place, such as near a park or school. In addition, offenders may face up to three months of jail time.

What Are the Medical Marijuana Laws in Belgium?

Medical marijuana is legal in Belgium. Prescription cannabis medicine often involves derivatives rather than the dry form.

Unlike other countries with a medical marijuana program, there are no medical marijuana cards issued in Belgium, nor does the process require the physician to have additional training.

Some recommended conditions are typically treated with medical cannabis, including musculoskeletal disorders, AIDS, and cancer.

In Belgium, there are cannabis clubs that provide resources about medical marijuana for families and patients, although minors are not given access.

Since government officials do not monitor these, they tend to be considered legal gray areas. Technically, the clubs are permitted, as they do not involve selling or distributing marijuana.

The use of dried medical cannabis is not typically allowed, and specific provisions would need to be made.

Likewise, regardless of their medical marijuana certification, smoking weed and cultivating marijuana with a THC content above 0.2% are punishable by fines and imprisonment.

Access to specific cannabis-based prescriptions depends on the condition. For example, Casmet and Marinol are approved for multiple sclerosis (MS), AIDS, and cancer, while Sativex is only approved for MS.

How Much Cannabis Can I Possess in Belgium With an MMJ Card?

Since Belgium only permits doctors to prescribe medical cannabis that has been licensed and approved, there is no need to use medical marijuana cards.

That being said, there is no set limit for medical cannabis, only that a patient cannot have more than three grams of dried cannabis on their person.

How Do I Get Certified for Medical Cannabis in Belgium?

As mentioned, physicians in Belgium can prescribe medical cannabis without additional certification.

To be certified for medical cannabis, you must book an appointment with your doctor.

Make sure you are open about your interest in medical cannabis in the appointment, including any critical treatment history.

If your doctor is well-versed, they will help you understand the side effects and benefits of using medical marijuana.

Is Telemedicine Allowed for Medical Cannabis Consultations in Belgium?

Since there is no legal framework for the use of telehealth in Belgium, it is hard to say whether medical cannabis consultations are allowed.

Are There Any Employment Laws Protecting Medical Cannabis Card Holders in Belgium?

Few laws directly protect workers using medical cannabis, but only licensed products ensure that patients get quality products.

Ensuring licensed medications are used also reduces the possible harm done by uneducated physicians if they prescribe the wrong treatment.

What Are the Medical Cannabis Product Testing Requirements in Belgium?

As mentioned, all medical cannabis is licensed and heavily regulated. Testing includes ensuring no pesticides or heavy metals and that THC levels are less than 0.2%.

However, dried cannabis for medical use is not readily endorsed in Belgium; therefore, products are often derivatives and synthetic.

Is It Legal To Grow Cannabis in Belgium?

Marijuana laws in Belgium tolerate the possession and cultivation of marijuana in small amounts. However, there are limits as the government has set a maximum of three-gram possession and single-plant cultivation.

Where Is It Safe to Purchase Cannabis in Belgium?

The safest place to purchase cannabis in Belgium is through a prescription, but not everyone will have medical grounds. In such cases, this usually means buying is done illegally.

Where Is It Safe To Consume Marijuana in Belgium?

Because recreational marijuana is illegal (but decriminalized), it’s safest to consume it in your home to avoid fines.

Similarly, while medical cannabis is legal, there are no guidelines on where patients can consume medical marijuana. As such, it’s likely best consumed in your own home.