Is weed legal in Costa Rica?
Cannabis Laws in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, recreational cannabis is Decriminalized and medical cannabis is Legal.
Decriminalized
Legal
Decriminalized since police officers do not detain people for personal use, yet no amount has been defined as a minimum for possession. Use of cannabis is widespread throughout the country.
Glossary
Possession
In the context of cannabis laws, "possession" refers to having physical control over cannabis products. Laws often specify the amount one can possess, commonly in terms of weight (e.g., ounces, grams). Penalties for possession can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on jurisdiction and the amount possessed.
Decriminalized
Decriminalization means that possession of a small amount of cannabis for personal use is not a criminal offense, but may still be subject to a fine or other administrative penalties. It's a middle ground between full legalization and criminalization. Decriminalization aims to reduce the social and economic costs of enforcing cannabis prohibition, such as arrests and imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is weed legal in Costa Rica?▾
Recreational: Decriminalized. Medical: Legal.
What are the cannabis laws in Costa Rica?▾
In Costa Rica, recreational cannabis is Decriminalized and medical cannabis is Legal.
Is medical marijuana legal in Costa Rica?▾
Legal
Is recreational weed legal in Costa Rica?▾
Decriminalized
Is CBD legal in Costa Rica?▾
CBD derived from hemp (containing less than 0.3% THC) is legal federally and in Costa Rica under the 2018 Farm Bill. Always verify THC content when purchasing CBD products.
Can tourists buy cannabis in Costa Rica?▾
Only medical patients with valid state-issued cards
What is the possession limit in Costa Rica?▾
The possession limit in Costa Rica is Not specified for recreational use and Not specified for medical use.
Are dispensaries legal in Costa Rica?▾
Yes, but only medical dispensaries serving registered patients are available in Costa Rica.
Can I travel with cannabis within Costa Rica?▾
Traveling with cannabis within Costa Rica is only permitted if you're in a legal jurisdiction and following possession limits. Driving under the influence is illegal. Cannabis remains illegal under federal law, so avoid airports and federal property.
When were cannabis laws last changed in Costa Rica?▾
Cannabis laws in Costa Rica were last updated around Not specified. Decriminalized since police officers do not detain people for personal use, yet no amount has been d...
Is cannabis legal in nearby locations?
Last updated: 2026