Is CBD legal in Portugal?
David ReichUpdated:Key points at a glance:
CBD itself is not classified as a narcotic substance in Portugal, but products are strictly regulated. Medicinal preparations are only available on prescription from pharmacies. CBD in cosmetic products is frequently subject to enforcement action by the authorities. CBD in food is generally considered unauthorised. Travellers should exercise caution and only carry small quantities, ensuring products are THC-free and accompanied by a laboratory certificate. Flowers and vaping products should be avoided. Consumption is decriminalised but not legalised. Always check the latest guidance from the relevant authorities.
CBD itself is not treated as a narcotic in Portugal, but most CBD products are tightly regulated. Medical CBD is prescription-only, CBD in foods is treated as unauthorised, CBD in cosmetics is often challenged, and CBD flowers and extracts are considered particularly sensitive.
Which products contain CBD but no THC?
First, a brief overview of which products may contain CBD while being free from THC. THC is subject to stricter rules in many countries. Here are some of the most common categories:
- CBD oils and tinctures: These liquids are usually placed under the tongue for relatively fast absorption.
- CBD capsules and tablets: A convenient way of taking CBD, similar to food supplements.
- CBD edibles: This includes gummies, chocolate, drinks and other foods that contain CBD.
- CBD vape products: These products are used for inhaling vapour that contains CBD, such as e‑liquids and vape pens.
- CBD skincare products: Creams, ointments, lotions and balms that are applied to the skin for local application.
Short summary: CBD, as a substance, is not classified as a narcotic in Portugal. However, CBD products are strictly regulated depending on their intended use. Medicinal products are only available on prescription; CBD in cosmetics is regularly challenged by the medicines authority; CBD in foods is treated by the food authority as not authorised. Tourists who decide to bring CBD with them tend to limit themselves to small quantities of clearly labelled, THC‑free products with a laboratory certificate – and avoid flowers. (eur-lex.europa.eu, infarmed.pt, asae.gov.pt)
Is CBD legal in Portugal? Key points at a glance
- CBD is not a controlled drug under EU law. In 2020, the Court of Justice of the European Union confirmed that CBD is not a narcotic under the UN Conventions (Case C‑663/18 “Kanavape”). National product rules, such as Portuguese CBD law, still apply. (eur-lex.europa.eu)
- Portugal regulates cannabis and cannabinoids strictly. For medical use, the framework law (Lei 33/2018) and INFARMED licensing apply. Cannabis, extracts and THC fall under the Portuguese narcotics framework (DL 15/93). (dre.tretas.org)
- In practice, INFARMED prohibits CBD in cosmetics when it is derived from cannabis and has repeatedly ordered products to be withdrawn from the market. ASAE takes enforcement action against foods containing CBD. (infarmed.pt, publico.pt, asae.gov.pt)
CBD law in Portugal: main legal sources
- CJEU C‑663/18 (“Kanavape”): Judgment of 19.11.2020. (eur-lex.europa.eu)
- Portugal – medical use:
- Lei n.º 33/2018, de 18 de julho (framework for “preparações e substâncias … para fins medicinais”). (dre.tretas.org)
- Portaria n.º 83/2021, de 15 de abril (licensing procedures – supplemented by Portaria 14/2022 and 64/2023). (dre.tretas.org)
- Decreto‑Lei n.º 8/2019 (implementation rules). (dre.tretas.org)
- Competent authority: INFARMED – licences/procedures. (infarmed.pt)
- Portugal – narcotics law:
- Decreto‑Lei n.º 15/93 (schedules include cannabis, resin, extracts, THC). (dre.tretas.org)
- Lei n.º 30/2000 (decriminalisation of use; possession for personal use as an administrative offence). (dre.tretas.org)
- Portugal – authority guidance and current practice:
- EU cosmetics law: Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (cosmetics). (eur-lex.europa.eu)
Can you bring CBD to Portugal? Travel and entry rules
There are currently no CBD travel rules in Portugal that apply only to CBD for private travellers. Instead, the usual narcotics and product rules apply.
The key point is that cannabis, its extracts/tinctures and THC are controlled substances in Portugal (DL 15/93). Products that contain these components – or look as if they might – can be checked or confiscated at the border or during inspections. (dre.tretas.org)
Medicinal products when entering Portugal
For medicines, prescribed medicinal products (for example authorised cannabis preparations) may be carried for personal use. It is advisable to have:
- a doctor’s note or prescription, and
- the original packaging.
For air travel, liquid medicines are exempt from the usual LAG (liquids, aerosols and gels) restrictions, but supporting documents should be carried. (anac.pt)
Practical tips for entering Portugal with CBD
- Only take small quantities for personal use (for example 1–2 small bottles). Larger stocks may attract attention. (dre.tretas.org)
- Prefer THC‑free products with a printed certificate of analysis (COA) showing “non‑detectable THC” and batch/date. Keep the COA with the original packaging.
- Avoid CBD flowers (“hemp flowers”). They cannot be distinguished visually from THC‑rich cannabis. Flowers and extracts are particularly sensitive and often challenged. (dre.tretas.org)
- Do not have CBD sent to your holiday address. Postal consignments containing CBD are usually subject to stricter controls than small amounts in personal luggage.
When travelling to Portugal with CBD, authorities focus on anything that could be seen as cannabis, an extract or THC. Small amounts of clearly THC‑free products with documents are less likely to cause problems than flowers, vapes or food products.
Buying, possessing and using CBD in Portugal
CBD legality in Portugal depends strongly on the type of product. The table below summarises the position as at August 2025.
| Product category | Legal situation in Portugal | Practice/authorities | What makes sense for travellers? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical cannabis/CBD preparations | Permitted only within the framework of Lei 33/2018 and subsequent rules; supplied in pharmacies on the basis of a special medical prescription. (dre.tretas.org) | INFARMED grants authorisations/licences; since 2024, several authorised preparations are on the market. (infarmed.pt, observador.pt) | Only purchase or carry with a prescription. Keep the prescription and packaging with you when travelling. (anac.pt) |
| CBD in cosmetics (creams/oils) | INFARMED prohibits the use of CBD (when derived from cannabis) in cosmetics; there have been repeated recalls and market withdrawals. (infarmed.pt, publico.pt) | Regular market surveillance; products labelled with “cannabidiol” have been publicly challenged and removed. (healthnews.pt, sic.pt) | As a tourist, it may be simpler to avoid such products altogether, or only use clearly compliant cosmetics. Check the label/INCI. |
| CBD in foods (oils for oral use, gummies, drinks) | Authorities treat the use of cannabinoids in foods as not authorised. Inspections and enforcement actions can occur. (asae.gov.pt) | In 2024, ASAE seized hundreds of CBD foods (including gummies, tea and “gin”). (dn.pt, observador.pt) | Avoid buying or importing CBD foods and drinks in Portugal. |
| CBD flowers (“hemp flowers”), vape liquids | Particularly high‑risk, as flowers and extracts are legally sensitive. Confusion with THC products is possible. (dre.tretas.org) | Inspections and seizures are possible. Reports suggest inconsistent practices between locations. (cannareporter.eu) | Travellers are strongly advised to avoid them completely. |
Is CBD legal in Portugal or not?
To understand CBD legality in Portugal, it is important to separate the substance CBD from CBD products sold on the market:
- CBD as a substance is not considered a narcotic under CJEU case law. (eur-lex.europa.eu)
- Products containing CBD are subject to sector‑specific product laws, depending on their intended use (medicine, cosmetic, food, etc.). In Portugal, INFARMED oversees medicines and cosmetics, while ASAE is responsible for foods – and both authorities are very active in relation to CBD. (infarmed.pt, asae.gov.pt)
Decriminalisation vs legality
For recreational use, Portugal has decriminalised the use of controlled drugs. This means possession for personal use is treated as an administrative offence, not a criminal one, but it has not been legalised. (dre.tretas.org)
For CBD products that are genuinely free of THC, this mainly becomes relevant if authorities classify a product as a cannabis extract or believe that it contains THC. In such cases, stricter drug rules may be applied.
Portuguese law does not ban CBD itself, but it restricts how CBD products are sold and used. The risk for travellers usually arises when a product is treated as a cannabis extract or as containing THC rather than as a simple “CBD” item.
Industrial hemp and CBD cultivation in Portugal
The cultivation of cannabis for extracting cannabinoids (including CBD) is subject to authorisation by INFARMED. This covers medical and industrial extraction activities.
By contrast, cultivation for pure fibre or seed production is governed by agricultural rules. In 2023, Portugal aligned the THC threshold for industrial hemp varieties with the EU level.
For travellers, this is mainly background information, but it shows how clearly Portuguese law separates low‑THC hemp for fibre/seed from cannabis grown for CBD or THC extraction. (dre.tretas.org)
Practical CBD tips for holidays and everyday life in Portugal
- Carry a COA: Print out the certificate of analysis showing the batch number, date and “THC not detectable”/“0.00%”. Keep it together with the original packaging and, if possible, the receipt.
- Consider the product type carefully: Do not buy or bring CBD flowers, vape liquids or edible CBD products in Portugal, as these are treated as high‑risk. (asae.gov.pt, dn.pt)
- Medical use: If you use a cannabis/CBD preparation prescribed by a doctor, carry the prescription or medical certificate and the original packaging. According to Portuguese aviation rules, medicines may be carried in hand luggage on flights. (anac.pt)
- Be discreet and moderate: Only carry small quantities that clearly look like they are for personal use. In the event of a check, politely present the COA and any supporting documents. (dre.tretas.org)
Regional CBD rules: mainland Portugal, Azores and Madeira
The substantive law on cannabis and CBD is the same throughout Portugal. This includes mainland Portugal and the autonomous regions of the Azores and Madeira.
The decriminalisation of use also applies in the autonomous regions, which have their own implementing rules and dissuasion commissions. Checks at airports such as Funchal and Ponta Delgada follow the same basic principles as in Lisbon or Porto. (dre.tretas.org)
Bringing CBD products vs buying locally in Portugal
The table below can help you decide whether to travel with CBD or rely on local options, bearing in mind current CBD travel rules in Portugal.
| Scenario | Risk | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Small bottle of “THC‑free” CBD oil, clearly labelled, COA available (for external use) | Medium (cosmetics supervision is strict) | ONLY if considered essential; carry COA and original packaging; consider avoiding such products locally. (infarmed.pt) |
| Medical preparation (on prescription) | Low | Carriage is permitted; keep prescription and packaging with you; obtain only from pharmacies. (dre.tretas.org) |
| CBD gummies/drinks/“edibles” | High | Avoid – ASAE takes action against such products. (asae.gov.pt) |
| CBD flowers or e‑liquids | Very high | Do not bring or buy them. (dre.tretas.org) |
In Portugal, CBD oils for external use and prescribed medical products are generally less risky than flowers, vapes or CBD foods, which face much stricter enforcement and are best avoided by visitors.
EU context: how Portugal fits into wider CBD rules
Although CBD as such is not a narcotic (CJEU C‑663/18), EU Member States may regulate the marketing of specific products for health and consumer protection reasons. Portugal uses this flexibility to intervene actively in the cosmetics and food sectors, which explains the strict CBD enforcement by INFARMED and ASAE. (eur-lex.europa.eu, infarmed.pt, asae.gov.pt)
CBD travel checklist for Portugal
- Only take small, clearly personal quantities of CBD.
- Do not buy or import edible CBD products in Portugal, such as gummies, drinks or other CBD foods. (asae.gov.pt)
- Avoid CBD flowers and vapes.
- Carry the COA and original packaging; labels in Portuguese or English are helpful.
- For medical use, carry your prescription or medical certificate plus the original packaging, and transport medicines in hand luggage on flights. (anac.pt)
Note/disclaimer
This article does not constitute legal advice. Regulations and administrative practice may change. Before travelling, check the linked primary sources and, where appropriate, information from the competent authorities (INFARMED/ASAE). (infarmed.pt, asae.gov.pt)