Is Marijuana Legal in Croatia?

Recreational marijuana is illegal in Croatia, like in many other European countries. However, minor offenses have been decriminalized.

For instance, personal cannabis use or the possession of small quantities of the drug usually results in a fine.

Other offenses like cannabis sales, distribution, or the use of more significant amounts can result in criminal charges, including mandatory prison sentences.

A restricted medical cannabis program has been implemented in which some pharmaceutical cannabinoid drugs have been legalized, including some containing THC.

These have several restrictions, including a cap on THC doses and a supply limit of 30 days.

What Are the Medical Marijuana Laws in Croatia?

In 2015, the Ministry of Health recommended legalizing medical cannabis products. As a result, an amendment was made to the law preventing the misuse of drugs.

Approved products for medical use are THC-based, with a maximum monthly dose of 7.5 grams.

These products can only be obtained with a doctor’s prescription, and patients must pay full price since they aren’t covered under any pharmaceutical schemes.

In 2019, an amendment was made to the Drug Abuse Prevention Act to allow the growth and production of hemp for medical purposes.

This change means that hemp is considered an agricultural product. It can be cultivated and sold in the same manner as other agricultural products.

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

Currently, Croatia doesn’t recognize MMJ cards, as medical cannabis is strictly regulated. You need a prescription for medical cannabis products, including medicines, creams, or teas.

If you have an approved medical condition, your doctor may be able to prescribe you a maximum dose of 7.5 g THC for a 30-day prescription.

In other words, you’ll only be allocated a 30-day prescription at a time. Your doctor must fill out a detailed prescription and declaration.

How Do I Get Certified for Medical Cannabis in Croatia?

Medical cannabis products are currently only available in Croatia for those with the following conditions:

• AIDS
• Epilepsy
• Multiple sclerosis
• Certain cancers

Even if you have one of these conditions, you must be approved by your doctor. Even then, you have many limitations on access to medical cannabis.

You can access medical cannabis through a family medicine doctor or general practitioner, but they must receive a recommendation through a specialist such as a neurologist or a radiologist. This process can differ depending on your condition.

Is Telemedicine Allowed for Medical Cannabis Consultations in Croatia?

No specific guidance exists around telemedicine for medical cannabis prescriptions in Croatia.

However, the general prescribing guidance is quite strict. as you need a referral from a specialist. Specialists aren’t always available via telemedicine or may require an in-person appointment.

It’s best to contact your physician or clinic for advice on whether telemedicine is available, whether for first-time or repeat prescriptions.

If you have one of the relevant conditions, you’ll likely have an ongoing care team to assist you.

Does Croatia Have Any Employment Laws Protecting Medical Cannabis Cardholders?

No specific protections are in place for medical cannabis in the workplace.

Medical cannabis is likely to be treated like any other “addictive substance” — defined as alcohol, drugs, or medications that are a safety risk at work. If an employer believes such a risk exists, they may perform a drug test.

Therefore, medical cannabis is only likely to cause employment issues if it risks safety, such as in jobs requiring driving.

Medical cannabis would likely be treated like any other prescription drug. Even prescription drugs can create workplace safety issues.

What Are the Medical Cannabis Product Testing Requirements in Croatia?

The requirements around testing and safety for medical cannabis in Croatia are set out in a specific ordinance from the Ministry of Health.

The Agency for Medicinal Products and Medical Devices specifically selected the currently available cannabis products, which have been through international testing and approval processes.

These products have been tested on the specific conditions for which they’ve been approved in Croatia.

Is It Legal To Grow Cannabis in Croatia?

It’s illegal for individuals to grow cannabis plants, and this offense can be severe.

However, the 2019 amendment to the Drugs Abuse Prevention Act permitted companies to grow marijuana to be used for medical purposes.

This amendment is slowly making way for an expansion of the medical marijuana industry in Croatia.

The amendment also regulates hemp. This is a product with a THC content of 0.2% and under. It reclassifies hemp as an agricultural product that can be cultivated and sold like any other.

Where Is It Safe to Purchase Cannabis in Croatia?

As recreational cannabis is illegal, it’s not safe to purchase. Illegally purchased drugs have no guarantees of quality or strength, and you could face criminal charges or fines for using, buying, or possessing such drugs.

Currently, the only way to obtain medical cannabis products is through a doctor’s prescription.

Only a few conditions are presently approved, all of which are severe and debilitating.

You’ll likely need to see a specialist to get a prescription and then pay out-of-pocket at the pharmacy for your cannabis product. This fee can be rather expensive, depending on the product and dose.

Where Is It Safe To Consume Marijuana in Croatia?

Generally, marijuana use is not safe in Croatia unless you have a medical prescription. The use of marijuana for recreational purposes is illegal.

It could lead to fines or criminal charges, depending on the offense type and the marijuana you have in your possession at the time of the arrest. If you have a prescription, it’s safest to use medical marijuana products in your home.