Cannabis use is gaining popularity in the U.S., with39 states legalizing medical use and 24 states with legal recreational cannabis use, and is the most widely used “drug” globally.

While some countries like the Netherlands have long been considered marijuana meccas, many countries around the world have less laid-back views around the possession and use of cannabis.

Here, we look at the legal consequences and cultural implications of getting caught smoking weed in different regions of the world. 

Global Legal Landscape of Cannabis

Cannabis use is on the rise in the U.S., increasing from “7.59 % to 11.48 % in 2013–2019, was 11.54 % in 2020, and increased again from 13.13 % to 15.11 % in 2021–2022,” but the U.S. is not the only country in the world with a changing view on the once maligned substance.

Cannabis use is legal in Canada, Uruguay, and several U.S. states, while Malta became the first EU country to legalize cannabis use for people over 18 officially. Despite cannabis being as synonymous with Amsterdam as bikes and canals, it is only decriminalized in the country under the “gedoogbeleid,” or tolerance policy.

There are similarly lenient rules in Portugal, where all drugs are decriminalized. Many countries don’t yet allow cannabis recreationally but do allow use medically, including the U.K., Spain, Brazil, and Australia. 

On the other end of the spectrum, countries like Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Singapore have seriously strict rules surrounding cannabis. Punishment for possession of cannabis in these countries can be as hefty as deportation, lengthy jail terms, and even the death penalty for trafficking.

Consequences of Getting Caught Smoking Weed in Another Country

Before you travel, it’s essential to look at the rules surrounding cannabis use and possession in the country that you are visiting. Here are some of the most common consequences of being caught using cannabis in countries with strict cannabis laws. 

Fines and Penalties

The first and most common punishment for cannabis possession or use you can expect is a fine. While fines are low in countries with less harsh rules, like Spain and Jamaica, some countries may hit you with a seriously hefty fine.

In Japan, you can be fined up to ¥5,000,000 ($33,000), and South Korea goes even higher with top fines of ₩50,000,000 ($37,000). If you're on a backpacker's budget, getting hit with a hefty fine isn't going to leave much money left over for hostels. 

Arrest and Detention

In countries with zero-tolerance policies, like Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Malaysia, possession can result in sentences as harsh as life imprisonment. While you await trial, you’ll be held at a police detention center or remanded in jail. Unfortunately, depending on the country, it may be a long time before you are processed and have a trial. 

Deportation

Getting caught with cannabis can result in deportation in some cases, which can lead to a permanent ban from re-entry to that country. People deported from Australia for lesser offenses may be able to reapply for entry. 

Imprisonment

After trial, people who are found guilty of drug-related offenses in some countries may find themselves behind bars for long stretches and even life in some cases in countries like China, UAE, and Japan. 

Corruption or Bribery

While it’s not official, tourists caught with cannabis in some countries may be extorted or bribed for money to prevent arrest or deportation. 

Cultural Sensitivity and Social Stigma

If you’re coming from a country with a laidback view on cannabis use, it can be a shock visiting somewhere with a zero-tolerance view of the medicinal plant.

In many Middle Eastern countries, cannabis consumption is strongly stigmatized, and consumption is against Islamic law, with countries like Japan and China seeing its use as unfavorable as well.

These views can hurt tourists’ reputations with locals, who may view the use of cannabis by tourists as disrespectful. 

Legal Recourse and Protection for Tourists

Getting legal counsel in some countries can be difficult. Help comes in the form of embassies and consulates, who can visit somebody in detention, provide local lawyer information, and assist with language barriers.

In most cases, travel insurance won’t cover the costs of drug-related legal issues. If you buy a travel insurance policy, see what it covers you for, but better yet, be super smart about where and when you use cannabis if you’re traveling and what the rules are in different parts of the world. 

Prevention: How to Avoid Legal Issues with Cannabis While Traveling

Traveling can broaden the mind, just like many believe cannabis can. If you plan on consuming cannabis while traveling, be sure to research the cannabis laws of the destination you are heading before you travel.

If you’re traveling to sample local produce, add countries like the Netherlands, Canada, or Uruguay to your itinerary. Local police may try to bribe you if you are in certain countries, but you should remain calm and respectful in these situations and always know the rules of the country you are visiting. For a safe alternative in countries like Japan with strict regulations on THC, CBD is allowed.  

Conclusion

Before you plan your world tour, take a deeper dive into the legal and cultural risks of smoking weed in the countries you plan on visiting. If you want to smoke on the go, sprinkle in some weed-friendly destinations to your itinerary.

As rules change around the world, stay informed and up to date, be super cautious, and always respect local laws to avoid serious consequences.