Is CBD Legal in Finland?
David ReichUpdated:The most important points at a glance:
CBD in its pure form is not considered a narcotic in Finland. However, many CBD products are classified as medicinal products by Fimea and usually require a prescription. Importing and ordering online without a prescription involves legal risks. Food products based on hemp seeds without added cannabinoids are permitted, and EU THC limit values apply. CBD may be used in cosmetics provided no therapeutic claims are made. Flowers, vapes and extracts are associated with significant legal uncertainties. When travelling, quantity limits and documentary requirements must be observed.
In Finland, CBD itself is not listed as a narcotic, but most CBD products are treated as medicines and are often prescription‑only. Travellers who bring CBD without a suitable prescription or documents can face seizures and possible proceedings.
Which products contain CBD but no THC?
First, a brief overview of which products contain CBD but are free from THC. THC is more sensitive from a legal perspective in many countries. Here are some of the most common categories:
- CBD oils and tinctures: These liquids are usually placed under the tongue for absorption.
- CBD capsules and tablets: A convenient way to take a measured amount of CBD, similar to food supplements.
- CBD edibles: This category includes gummies, chocolate, drinks and other foods that contain CBD.
- CBD vape products: These products are used for inhaling CBD vapour. They include e‑liquids and vape pens.
- CBD skincare products: Creams, ointments, lotions and balms applied to the skin for local use.
This article provides practical orientation with primary sources. It does not constitute legal advice.
Is CBD legal in Finland? Key points at a glance
- CBD as a substance: Isolated cannabidiol (CBD) is not classified as a narcotic in Finland. The narcotics list names “cannabis”, resin, extracts and tinctures – but not pure CBD. Products with relevant THC content do fall under narcotics law. (finlex.fi)
- In practice: The Finnish Medicines Agency Fimea usually classifies CBD‑containing products as medicines (generally prescription‑only). Importing or ordering them without an appropriate medical prescription may not be permitted. (fimea.fi)
- Food: Hemp seed products without added cannabinoids are generally allowed. For hemp‑seed‑based foods there are EU maximum levels for Δ9‑THC (seeds 3.0 mg/kg; seed oil 7.5 mg/kg). (ruokavirasto.fi, eur-lex.europa.eu)
- Cosmetics: CBD can be used in cosmetics if EU cosmetics law is respected and there are no claims of curing or treating diseases. The EU is still working on further safety assessment for CBD in cosmetics. (single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu)
- Travel and import: If a CBD product is classified as a medicine, strict rules on carrying and importing apply (quantity limits and prescriptions). Without a prescription, seizure and proceedings are possible. (tulli.fi)
- Flowers / “CBD herb”: Very high‑risk. Plant parts and extracts are usually treated as “cannabis” under the narcotics list, regardless of low THC. (finlex.fi)
CBD law in Finland: legal framework
Narcotics law
The Finnish narcotics list (Decree 543/2008) mentions:
- cannabis
- cannabis resin
- extracts and tinctures of cannabis
It does not list cannabidiol (CBD) as an isolated substance. This means CBD as a pure compound is not a narcotic in Finland. However, products that contain THC, or are made from cannabis plant parts or extracts, can be treated as narcotics. (finlex.fi)
Medicines law
Under the Medicines Act (Lääkelaki 395/1987), a product can be classed as a medicine if, because of its composition or the way it is presented, it:
- has a pharmacological effect, or
- is intended for treating or preventing disease or affecting body functions.
Fimea clearly states: “Cannabidiol (CBD) is recognised in Finland as an active medicinal substance; a CBD‑containing preparation is equated with a prescription‑only medicine.”
As a result, many CBD oils, capsules and similar products fall under medicines law. Buying or importing such products without a prescription is usually problematic. (finlex.fi, fimea.fi)
Criminal law
Once a CBD product is treated as a narcotic because of its THC content or plant‑based origin, the offences in Chapter 50 of the Criminal Code apply. These include import, possession and trade in narcotics. (finlex.fi)
EU context
The Court of Justice of the European Union (C‑663/18 “Kanavape”) decided that CBD is not a narcotic drug under the UN conventions. EU free movement of goods applies, and national restrictions on CBD must be proportionate and aimed at protecting health.
However, this ruling does not prevent EU Member States from treating CBD products as medicines, depending on how they are made and marketed. Finland uses this option and has kept a strict approach. (eur-lex.europa.eu, curia.europa.eu)
CBD legality in Finland depends more on product classification (medicine, narcotic, food or cosmetic) than on CBD itself. The same oil that is sold as a supplement elsewhere in Europe may be treated as a prescription medicine when it enters Finland.
Can you bring CBD to Finland? Travel and import rules
The risk when travelling with CBD to Finland (by plane, ferry or car) depends on how Finnish authorities classify your product.
-
Check how your CBD product is classified
Ask yourself: would this be seen as a medicine in Finland? Fimea is responsible for classification, and you can check their guidance or submit questions/applications. (fimea.fi) -
If it is classified as a medicine
For CBD medicines (which are usually prescription‑only in Finland), travellers may only bring:- personal quantities, and
- must carry a valid prescription for prescription‑only medicines.
Typical quantity limits are:
- from EU/EEA countries: up to 1 year’s personal use
- from non‑EU/EEA countries: up to 3 months’ personal use
Online orders of CBD medicines to Finland follow separate and strict rules. (tulli.fi)
-
If it is food or a cosmetic product
- Food: Only hemp‑seed‑based foods without added cannabinoids are straightforward. CBD added to foods (oils, gummies, drinks, etc.) is currently not authorised for marketing in Finland.
- Cosmetics: CBD in creams or skincare is possible if EU cosmetics rules are respected and there are no cure or treatment claims.
In both cases, THC content must meet EU limits, and the product must comply with wider food or cosmetics rules. (ruokavirasto.fi, eur-lex.europa.eu, single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu)
-
Flowers, vapes and extracts
“CBD flowers”, cannabis‑looking herb, and many CBD vapes or extracts are very high‑risk. They can be treated as:- cannabis or cannabis extracts under narcotics law, and/or
- unauthorised medicines.
For your own legal safety, these products are best left at home. (finlex.fi)
Documents to carry when travelling with CBD
Practical documentation tips for checks:
- original packaging
- proof of purchase (receipt or invoice)
- a medical prescription, where applicable
- a printed certificate of analysis (CoA) matching the batch number, with CBD content and “non‑detectable/0 THC”
- an English CoA is helpful; Finnish or Swedish is even better
- for medicines, also carry the patient information leaflet
These documents can help customs assess whether your CBD is a permitted medicine, food or cosmetic. (tulli.fi)
Schengen certificate
A Schengen certificate only applies to certain narcotic‑containing medicines prescribed in one Schengen country and carried to another. For pure CBD products without THC it is normally not needed. If you are unsure, ask your pharmacy before departure. (tulli.fi)
Special note: Åland Islands
Narcotics and medicines law is the same across Finland, including the Åland Islands. However, Åland has a specific tax border within the EU, so shipping and customs treatment may differ slightly from mainland Finland. (tulli.fi)
When you travel with CBD to Finland, customs will often treat oils, capsules and similar products as prescription medicines. Without a prescription and clear documents, these products can be seized, even if they were sold as food supplements in another country.
Buying, possessing and using CBD in Finland
Buying and distributing CBD products
Because Fimea generally classifies CBD‑containing products as prescription‑only medicines, selling or distributing CBD products in Finland usually requires the relevant authorisation as a medicines supplier.
Online shops based in other EU countries do not override Finnish rules. If a product is considered a medicine in Finland, it must follow Finnish medicines law, even if it is sold as a “food supplement” elsewhere. (fimea.fi)
Possession and personal use
Pure, THC‑free CBD as a substance is not a narcotic. However, risk arises when:
- the product contains THC above allowed traces, and/or
- the product is classed as a medicine and has been brought into Finland without following medicines rules.
In such cases, medicines or narcotics offences may apply, depending on the exact facts. (finlex.fi)
CBD and hemp in food
For foods, Finnish and EU rules draw a clear line:
- Allowed: hemp‑seed‑based products (such as seeds, seed oil) without added cannabinoids, within EU Δ9‑THC limits (e.g. seeds 3.0 mg/kg; seed oil 7.5 mg/kg; limits apply to the sum of Δ9‑THC + 0.877×THCA).
- Not straightforward: foods with added CBD (oils, gummies, drinks etc.) are considered “novel foods” and are not currently authorised for general marketing in Finland.
(ruokavirasto.fi, eur-lex.europa.eu)
CBD in cosmetics
CBD may be used as an ingredient in cosmetics, provided EU cosmetics legislation is followed. This includes:
- safe formulation and correct labelling
- no claims that the product treats, cures or prevents disease.
The European Commission is currently collecting more data on CBD safety in cosmetics; future assessments could adjust how CBD is handled. (single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu)
Authorised medicinal products containing cannabinoids
Some cannabis‑based medicines, such as Sativex, are authorised and available in Finland via prescription. CBD‑based medicines authorised at EU level, such as Epidyolex, may also be available depending on national rules and supply. Access is through the healthcare system, not via general retail. (sic.fimea.fi)
Overviews
Table 1: CBD product types and legal status in Finland
| Product | Status in Finland (simplified) | Points to note | Primary source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure CBD (isolated substance) | Not listed as a narcotic | Finished products can still be classified as medicines | Narcotics list 543/2008 (finlex.fi) |
| CBD oil / drops | Usually treated as medicines (prescription‑only) | Import or purchase without a prescription is high‑risk; seizures are common | Fimea notice (fimea.fi) |
| CBD vape / e‑liquid | Very high‑risk | May be treated as a medicine and/or a prohibited cannabis extract | 543/2008 (extracts/tinctures) (finlex.fi) |
| “CBD flowers” | In practice prohibited | Regarded as cannabis under narcotics law, regardless of THC content | 543/2008 (finlex.fi) |
| Hemp seeds, hemp oil without added cannabinoids | Permitted | Must comply with EU THC limits (seeds 3.0 mg/kg; oil 7.5 mg/kg) | Finnish Food Authority; EU 2023/915 (ruokavirasto.fi, eur-lex.europa.eu) |
| CBD cosmetics | Possible | Subject to EU cosmetics law; no medicinal claims; ongoing safety assessment | EU CosIng; European Commission (CBD data collection) (single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu) |
Table 2: CBD travel scenarios to Finland
| Scenario | Risk assessment | Recommendation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight to Helsinki with 10% CBD oil | High | Only carry with a valid prescription and within personal quantity limits. Otherwise, do not take it. | Tulli (travellers & medicines); Fimea (tulli.fi, fimea.fi) |
| Bringing hemp seed oil for cooking | Low | Only if there are no added cannabinoids and THC limits are respected. | Food Authority; EU 2023/915 (ruokavirasto.fi, eur-lex.europa.eu) |
| “CBD flowers” in luggage | Very high | Do not carry. Treated as cannabis under narcotics law. | 543/2008 (finlex.fi) |
| CBD cosmetic cream | Moderate | Use products without medicinal claims; keep original packaging and ingredient list. | EU CosIng (single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu) |
| Online order of CBD oil delivered to Finland | High | Not allowed without a prescription; many parcels are intercepted by customs. | Tulli: online orders (tulli.fi) |
Table 3: Do’s & don’ts for tourists with CBD in Finland
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Before travelling, clarify with Fimea/Tulli whether your product is considered a medicine; carry prescriptions and documents; print a certificate of analysis (ideally in English or Finnish). (tulli.fi) | Do not bring “CBD flowers”, vapes or unclassified extracts. These are very likely to be treated as narcotics or unauthorised medicines. (finlex.fi) |
| Have original packaging, patient information leaflet and proof of purchase ready at checks. | Avoid describing the product to officials as treating or curing health conditions, as this can support classification as a medicine. (finlex.fi) |
| For foods, use only hemp‑seed‑based products without added cannabinoids and follow THC limits. (ruokavirasto.fi, eur-lex.europa.eu) | Do not place online orders for CBD medicines from non‑EU/EEA countries; even orders within the EU must respect Finnish medicines law. (tulli.fi) |
EU background in two sentences
The CJEU has confirmed that CBD is not a narcotic drug and that EU free movement of goods applies; any national limits must be justified by health protection and be proportionate. In Finland, this has not led to general liberalisation, as CBD products are still frequently treated as medicines under national law. (eur-lex.europa.eu)
Primary sources on CBD legality in Finland
- Fimea (CBD as a medicine; classification and import for private individuals): position note, “Why is the food supplement I ordered considered to be a medicine?”, classification application (fimea.fi)
- Finnish Customs (Tulli): medicines when travelling, online ordering, contact and hotline (tulli.fi)
- Finnish Food Authority (foods, hemp and THC limits): hemp as food (ruokavirasto.fi)
- EU law (THC maximum levels in hemp‑seed‑based foods): Regulation (EU) 2023/915 (eur-lex.europa.eu)
- Narcotics law Finland: Decree 543/2008, Narcotics Act (English translation), Criminal Code Chapter 50 (finlex.fi)
- Medicines law Finland: Lääkelaki 395/1987 (English translation linked on the page) (finlex.fi)
- Court of Justice of the European Union: judgment C‑663/18 (Kanavape) (eur-lex.europa.eu)
- WHO: Q&A on CBD (2017/2018) (who.int)
Checklist: travelling to Finland with CBD
- Clarify the product type (medicine, cosmetic, food) and check with Fimea or Tulli before travel if anything is unclear. (tulli.fi)
- If it is a medicine: carry a valid prescription, original packaging and patient information leaflet; stay within personal quantity limits. (tulli.fi)
- If it is food: only hemp‑seed‑based products without added cannabinoids, and make sure they meet EU THC limits. (ruokavirasto.fi, eur-lex.europa.eu)
- If it is a cosmetic: check the ingredients/INCI list and avoid products that are marketed with medicinal claims. (single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu)
- Carry helpful documents: printed certificate of analysis (CBD and THC values, batch number), proof of purchase, and any relevant medical confirmation in English or Finnish.
- Do not bring: CBD flowers, CBD vapes or unclassified extracts, as these are particularly risky under Finnish narcotics and medicines law. (finlex.fi)
If you are unsure whether your CBD product is treated as a medicine, food, cosmetic or narcotic in Finland, the safest option is to ask Tulli or Fimea in advance or not to travel with the product at all.
Note: Finnish authorities update their guidance regularly. Always check the linked original sources before you travel. If in doubt, contact Tulli or Fimea. (tulli.fi)