Is CBD legal in Hungary?
David ReichUpdated:Key points at a glance:
CBD itself is not listed as a narcotic in Hungary, whereas THC and cannabis are. Products containing measurable levels of THC may be classified as narcotics. CBD flowers are not permitted. Travellers are generally advised to carry only THC-free products and to have a laboratory certificate with them. CBD foods are considered non-marketable without EU authorisation. The medicinal product Epidyolex is available on prescription. Driving with THC in the bloodstream is a criminal offence. The Court of Justice of the European Union does not classify CBD as a narcotic.
Which products contain CBD but no THC?
First, a brief overview of which products typically contain CBD but are free from THC. THC is legally more sensitive in many countries. Here are some of the most common categories:
- CBD oils and tinctures: These liquids are usually placed under the tongue to allow relatively quick uptake.
- CBD capsules and tablets: A convenient way to take CBD, similar in format to food supplements.
- CBD edibles: These include 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 that are applied to the skin for local use.
Note (not legal advice): This article is for general information only. The situation can change; always check primary sources before travelling.
Is CBD legal in Hungary? Quick overview
- CBD (cannabidiol) itself is not listed as a narcotic in Hungary. However, definitions and scope show that “cannabis” (plant parts/flowers) and THC are controlled substances. (njt.hu)
- Products with any measurable amount of THC can be classified as narcotics in Hungary – particularly flowers. Strict import/possession bans apply to “cannabis”. 66/2012. (IV. 2.) Government Decree. (njt.hu)
- For travellers this means: focus on THC‑free (0.0% THC) CBD products. Carry a printed certificate of analysis (CoA) showing batch number, test date and “ND/0.00% THC”.
- CBD foods/food supplements without EU‑wide authorisation are regarded by the authorities in Hungary as not marketable. OGYÉI notice. (ogyei.gov.hu)
- CBD‑based medicines such as Epidyolex are authorised (and not classified as narcotics); if prescribed, they should be carried with a prescription for personal use. (ogyei.gov.hu)
- Driving: Hungary has a criminal offence similar to “driving in an intoxicated state”; THC in the body can be sufficient. Reference to Criminal Code §§ 236–237. (njt.hu)
- EU context: The Court of Justice of the EU (C‑663/18 “Kanavape”) clarified that CBD is not a narcotic within the meaning of the UN Conventions; national restrictions must be proportionate. Judgment. (eur-lex.europa.eu)
CBD itself is not treated as a narcotic in Hungary, but any CBD product containing measurable THC – especially flowers – can fall under strict cannabis and THC rules.
Can you bring CBD to Hungary? Entry rules
Hungarian narcotics law does not distinguish between different modes of travel. The same rules apply whether you arrive by car, train or plane. For any import of “cannabis” or THC, permits are required; customs and police authorities carry out risk‑based checks. 66/2012. (IV. 2.) Government Decree, including § 4 on import/export permits. (njt.hu)
Checklist for carrying CBD products into Hungary
- Only THC‑free CBD oils/cosmetics (analysis value: ND/0.00% THC).
- Carry a printed laboratory report (CoA) indicating product, lot/batch number, THC detection limit, date and laboratory.
- Keep the product in its original packaging, with a clear list of ingredients (no reference to “cannabis flowers/herb”).
- Do not take CBD flowers: flowers are treated in law as “cannabis”. Definition of “cannabis”. (njt.hu)
- For prescription products: include a doctor’s certificate/prescription (for example Epidyolex; not listed as a narcotic). OGYÉI database. (ogyei.gov.hu)
| Product | Recommendation for travellers | Legal background |
|---|---|---|
| CBD oil (THC‑free, 0.00%) | Carry with CoA and original label; small quantities for personal use. | CBD itself is not listed; THC/cannabis are. Checks are possible. Government Decree. (njt.hu) |
| CBD oil (with traces of THC) | Not recommended: risk of classification as a narcotic product. | THC is listed; import can trigger permit requirements and criminal law risks. THC listed. (njt.hu) |
| CBD flowers | Not advisable (including “industrial hemp flowers”). High risk of seizure. | “Cannabis” covers the flowering tops; strict prohibitions apply. Definition. (njt.hu) |
| CBD cosmetics | Permitted if EU cosmetics law is complied with and THC‑free; carry original label. | EU cosmetics legislation/CosIng, national market surveillance. European Commission. (single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu) |
| CBD foods/supplements | Do not import/sell without EU‑wide authorisation; private carriage involves risk. | OGYÉI regards such products without authorisation as not marketable. OGYÉI FAQ. (ogyei.gov.hu) |
| CBD medicines (e.g. Epidyolex) | Carry in original packaging with prescription/doctor’s letter for personal use. | Authorised, not listed as a narcotic. OGYÉI. (ogyei.gov.hu) |
| CBD vapes/e‑liquids | Only if the strict Hungarian e‑cigarette rules are respected; online distance sales are prohibited. | Electronic cigarettes: restrictions on marketing, advertising and use; distance selling banned. Act 1999 XLII. (njt.hu) |
Practical tip: Keep printed CoAs easily accessible. During checks at airports (including intra‑EU flights), the tax and customs authority (NAV) may carry out spot checks; e‑cigarettes containing THC have repeatedly been seized. NAV report. (nav.gov.hu)
When entering Hungary, authorities focus on THC and cannabis flowers; carrying only clearly THC‑free CBD products with printed lab reports reduces the risk of problems at the border.
CBD legality in Hungary: purchase, possession and use
Buying CBD in Hungary
CBD cosmetics can, in principle, be placed on the market under EU cosmetics law, provided they are THC‑free and correctly labelled. Products that are marketed as foods or supplements are, according to current authority practice, considered not marketable without EU authorisation. Such products are regularly challenged. OGYÉI FAQ. (ogyei.gov.hu)
Possession of CBD products
CBD as a pure substance is not listed as a narcotic. However, possession of “cannabis” (flowers/resin) or THC is covered by the Criminal Code. Even small quantities can be punishable, with particular rules for first‑time offenders and certain therapeutic pathways. Criminal Code (extracts on drug offences). (njt.hu)
Using CBD in Hungary
The use of pure, THC‑free CBD products is not in itself covered as a drug offence. Issues arise where a product is classified as “cannabis/THC”. General rules also apply, for example for e‑cigarettes: use is banned in many indoor spaces, and advertising and distance selling are heavily restricted. Act 1999 XLII. (njt.hu)
Driving in Hungary & CBD: drug tests and THC
Hungary treats “járművezetés bódult állapotban” (driving in an intoxicated state) as a criminal offence. If there is suspicion, a driving licence can be taken on the spot. Even low levels of THC in the blood can cause problems. Reference to Criminal Code §§ 236–237. (njt.hu)
- Avoid driving after using “full‑spectrum” products.
- Prefer THC‑free (broad‑spectrum/isolate) products.
- Keep CoA and product label in the vehicle.
For driving in Hungary, the key risk is any THC in your system; even low levels may be relevant, so THC‑free products are the safer option if you intend to drive.
EU context: how EU law affects CBD in Hungary
In 2020, the CJEU (C‑663/18 “Kanavape”) clarified that CBD is not a narcotic within the meaning of the UN Conventions, so the EU’s internal market rules (Articles 34/36 TFEU) apply to CBD products.
National bans and restrictions on CBD must therefore be proportionate and consistently justified. However, this judgment does not stop Hungary from setting product‑specific health requirements, for example for foods or supplements. Full judgment. (eur-lex.europa.eu)
Industrial hemp vs finished CBD products
For the cultivation of industrial hemp in Hungary, agricultural rules apply. Only EU‑listed varieties may be grown, and there is a THC threshold of 0.2% at plant level. 162/2003. (X. 16.) Government Decree. (njt.hu)
Important for travellers: this 0.2% THC threshold applies to the plant in the field. It does not automatically apply to consumer‑facing end products such as oils, foods or cosmetics.
Regional differences in CBD law in Hungary?
Hungary is centrally organised; relevant rules apply nationwide. There are no separate regional CBD laws.
Differences are more likely in enforcement practice (for example at border crossings or airports) than in the wording of the law itself. Sample NAV reports show consistent checks at airports and borders. NAV. (nav.gov.hu)
CBD in Hungary for tourists: what is safer, risky or off‑limits?
| Category | Carrying into Hungary | Purchase on the spot | Possession/use | Source(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBD cosmetics (THC‑free) | Generally unproblematic (carry CoA). | In principle possible (market surveillance applies). | Permitted. | EU cosmetics (single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu) |
| CBD oil (THC‑free) | With CoA; small quantities. | Availability varies. | Permitted. | Government Decree (njt.hu) |
| CBD foods/supplements | Risky – best avoided. | Without EU authorisation not marketable. | May be challenged. | OGYÉI (ogyei.gov.hu) |
| CBD flowers | Off‑limits. | Off‑limits. | Off‑limits. | Definition of “cannabis” (njt.hu) |
| CBD vapes/e‑liquids | Only with strict compliance with e‑cig rules. | Heavily regulated; distance selling banned. | Use indoors restricted. | Act 1999/XLII (njt.hu) |
| CBD medicine (Epidyolex) | Permitted with prescription. | Through pharmacies. | Permitted (not a narcotic). | OGYÉI (ogyei.gov.hu) |
For tourists in Hungary, THC‑free CBD cosmetics and oils are generally the lowest‑risk options, while CBD flowers and unapproved CBD foods or supplements are treated as problematic or off‑limits.
5 practical tips for a smoother CBD trip to Hungary
- Documents: Print out CoAs and carry them together with the product label (ideally in more than one language, for example EN/HU). For medicines, also carry the prescription/doctor’s letter.
- Product choice: THC‑free (0.00%), reputable laboratory, lot number. Avoid “flowers”, “resin”, “full‑spectrum” products containing THC traces.
- Packaging: Keep products in their original packaging; do not decant into neutral bottles.
- Driving: Do not drive a vehicle if there is any risk of THC being present. (njt.hu)
- If in doubt: Leave products at home and consider buying compliant alternatives locally (for example cosmetics).
Primary sources & further information on CBD law in Hungary
- Hungarian narcotics regulation (66/2012. (IV. 2.) Government Decree): NJT. (njt.hu)
- Definitions including “cannabis” (142/2004. (IV. 29.) Government Decree): NJT. (njt.hu)
- THC listed (psychotropic substances – official schedule): NJT. (njt.hu)
- Criminal Code – extracts on drug offences: NJT. (njt.hu)
- Driving under the influence of drugs – reference to Criminal Code §§ 236–237: NJT. (njt.hu)
- Industrial hemp cultivation (0.2% THC threshold for the plant): NJT. (njt.hu)
- Electronic cigarettes – use/marketing/ban on distance selling: NJT. (njt.hu)
- OGYÉI – FAQ on CBD‑containing food supplements (marketability): ogyei.gov.hu. (ogyei.gov.hu)
- OGYÉI – Epidyolex (cannabidiol) – entry in the medicines register: ogyei.gov.hu. (ogyei.gov.hu)
- CJEU C‑663/18 (“Kanavape”) – CBD not a narcotic; internal market freedoms: EUR‑Lex. (eur-lex.europa.eu)
- NAV (customs) – example seizures/prosecutions: nav.gov.hu. (nav.gov.hu)