Did you know that over 67% of Greeks support medical cannabis, but only 38% back recreational use? Since 2017, Greece has improved its cannabis policy. It now joins other European countries that permit medical marijuana.
In 2024, Greece started giving out medical cannabis prescriptions. This came after years of delays and shows real progress. This article breaks down Greece’s cannabis laws, penalties, and what the future might hold.
Is Cannabis Legal in Greece? Legal Status in 2025
Yes, cannabis is partially legal in Greece under specific conditions. Recreational cannabis is still illegal in Greece. Greece has legalized medical cannabis and industrial hemp.
But, it comes with strict rules. Recent reforms indicate a growing acceptance of cannabis for therapeutic and economic purposes.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is illegal in Greece. Possession of even small amounts can lead to fines (€200–€2,000) or up to 5 months in jail. Judges look at factors like how much and why someone did something.
First-time offenders can often avoid jail by doing community service or attending therapy. Public use is strictly enforced, especially in tourist hotspots like Mykonos and Athens.
2. Medicinal Use
Medical cannabis became legal in 2017. But, prescriptions didn’t begin until 2024 because of bureaucratic delays. Patients with cancer, epilepsy, or chronic pain can use cannabis oils or flowers.
However, these can be expensive, costing between €250 and €750 each month. Only Greek doctors can prescribe it, and tourists can’t use foreign prescriptions.
3. Industrial Use
Greece allows hemp cultivation with less than 0.2% THC. This supports industries like textiles, biofuels, and CBD products. Over 20 companies have licenses to grow hemp, creating jobs and boosting the economy.
Cannabis Law and Control in Greece
1 How Greece Applies Cannabis Laws
- Possession: Small amounts (under 5 grams) may lead to fines or therapy instead of jail.
- Medical Access: Needs approval from the National Organization for Medicines (EOF) and a prescription from a local doctor.
- CBD: Legal if THC is under 0.2%. Sold in stores and online, but quality varies.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite strict laws, underground markets thrive. Tourists often pay inflated prices (up to €20/gram), and dealers use apps like Telegram to avoid detection. In 2025, Greece also banned HHC, a synthetic cannabinoid, classifying it as a narcotic.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Greece
1. Recreational Drug Use
About 11% of young adults used cannabis in 2019, with higher rates in cities like Athens. However, stigma persists, and many users avoid public consumption.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Medical cannabis can benefit patients. But, using it for recreation might raise worries about addiction and mental health. Greece’s government emphasizes education to reduce risks.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Hemp farming could generate €2 billion annually by 2030. CBD products are popular, but regulations lag behind EU standards, affecting quality.
Cannabis Cultivation in Greece
Growing cannabis for personal use is illegal, punishable by up to 8 years in prison. As of 2025, only one licensed company grows medical cannabis. Hemp farmers need permits from the Ministry of Agriculture and must use low-THC seeds. seeds.
Cannabis Penalties in Greece
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Personal Use | Fines (€200–€2,000) or 5 months jail |
| Trafficking | Up to 8 years in prison |
| Growing Cannabis | 8+ years jail and fines up to €500,000 |
- Public officials (e.g., teachers, and doctors) face harsher penalties.
- Repeat offenders get longer sentences.
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Greece
Greece’s government focuses on expanding medical cannabis production to boost the economy. But, recreational legalization faces resistance. Advocates say regulation might cut crime and boost tax revenue. But, conservative views lead in politics.
Key Predictions:
- Medical access will improve with local production.
- Hemp farming will grow, aligning with EU standards.
- Recreational use remains illegal until at least 2030.
