Blog Cannabis legalization CBD and travel: the complete guide

CBD and travel: the complete guide

Cannabis legalization

06.03.25

CBD (cannabidiol) has become a must-have product for many consumers, who use it in their daily lives.

But what about travelling with CBD?

Whether in the form of oil, flowers or other by-products, regulations vary from country to country and airline to airline.

In this guide, we'll take a look at the rules for traveling with CBD, with a focus on Europe, Switzerland and destinations outside Europe.

Can you travel with CBD?

The answer depends on the country of departure, destination and specific CBD regulations. In general, it is possible to travel with CBD under certain conditions:

The product must contain an amount of THC that complies with local laws (often less than 0.2% or 1%, depending on the country).

Details of the product's composition on the packaging may be requested in the event of an inspection.

The forms of CBD (oil, flowers, etc.) may be regulated differently in different countries.

It is therefore essential to be well informed before any trip to avoid any complications.

CBD oil rather than flowers

To avoid any misunderstandings or additional checks, it's advisable to opt for CBD oil rather than flowers when traveling. The oil is more discreet, easier to transport and does not give rise to confusion with prohibited substances.

Naturalpes CBD Wellness oil, which contains no THC, is ideal for stress-free travel. As it contains no trace of THC, it reduces the risk of limitations or restrictions, whatever the destination.

Just be sure to respect the quantities authorized by airlines and local regulations.

Travelling with CBD by plane

Airport security check

During security checks, any liquid over 100 ml is prohibited in the cabin. If you're traveling with CBD oil, make sure its container complies with this restriction.

Presentation to customs

If you are carrying CBD, it is recommended that you carry :

The product purchase receipt (sales slip), which may be requested in the event of an inspection.

The product's original packaging, containing information on its composition and regulatory compliance.

CBD flowers can pose more of a problem, as they visually resemble cannabis containing THC. They should not be transported to certain countries, even if they are legal to sell.

REGULATIONS IN EUROPE

Each EU country has its own rules on CBD.

Here is a detailed overview with official sources:

European countries where THC-free CBD is authorized

France :

CBD is legal in France, provided the finished product contains no detectable THC. Products must be derived from authorized hemp varieties containing less than 0.3% THC. However, the sale of raw flowers and leaves is prohibited. Strict compliance with regulations is recommended to avoid any legal problems.

Source

Germany:

Since April 1, 2024, Germany has legalized recreational cannabis. Adults can possess up to 25 grams of cannabis and grow up to three plants for personal use. CBD-based products are legal as long as their THC content is below 0.2%.

Source

In Switzerland

Switzerland stands out for its more permissive CBD regulations. Products containing up to 1% THC are authorized and widely available.

Italy:

In Italy, CBD legislation has historically been permissive, authorizing the sale and consumption of products containing up to 0.6% THC. However, recent developments indicate a tightening of these regulations.

In December 2024, the Italian government proposed a law to ban the production, processing, transport and trade of all varieties of cannabis flowers, including those derived from non-psychotropic industrial hemp.

This measure, incorporated in a new security law, has been approved by the lower house and is awaiting ratification by the Senate.

Source

Spain:

In Spain, legislation concerning CBD is specific.

CBD products are legal if they are intended for external use, such as cosmetics, and contain less than 0.2% THC. However, the sale of CBD products for human consumption, such as oils or dietary supplements, is prohibited, although the practice is often tolerated.

For travellers wishing to enter Spain with CBD, it is advisable to carry only products that comply with Spanish legislation, i.e. products for external use containing less than 0.2% THC.

Source

Netherlands:

In the Netherlands, legislation concerning CBD (cannabidiol) is specific. CBD-based products are legal if they contain less than 0.05% THC, the psychoactive substance in cannabis. This limit is stricter than in other European countries.

Although cannabis is tolerated in coffee shops for Dutch residents, drug possession and use remain illegal.

Source

Portugal :

In Portugal, legislation authorizes the consumption of CBD-based products, provided their THC content does not exceed 0.2%.

For travellers wishing to enter Portugal with THC-free CBD, it is generally accepted that products complying with European regulations, including those containing less than 0.2% THC, are permitted.

Source

European countries where THC-free CBD is banned

Although CBD is widely accepted in Europe, some countries impose strict restrictions or even outright bans on its possession and use. Here's a look at countries where traveling with CBD, even without THC, is risky:

Slovakia

Slovakia is one of the few European countries to consider CBD an illegal substance. Long classified as a narcotic, its possession or use can result in criminal penalties. It is therefore strongly inadvisable to enter Slovakia with CBD in any form.

Source

Lithuania

In Lithuania, cannabis-derived products are strictly regulated. CBD is subject to severe restrictions and can only be marketed under specific conditions. Importing or possessing CBD, even without THC, can lead to legal complications. It is recommended not to travel with CBD in this country.

Source

Sweden

Sweden applies very strict regulations to CBD. The Swedish Medical Products Agency considers CBD to be a medicine requiring a prescription. What's more, a decision by the Swedish Supreme Court has classified CBD oils containing even the slightest trace of THC as narcotics. It is therefore inadvisable to carry CBD, even THC-free CBD, without a medical prescription.

Source

Before traveling, it's essential to find out about the legislation in force to avoid any legal problems. In countries where CBD is banned, it's best not to take the risk of traveling with these products.

TRAVELING WITH CBD OUTSIDE EUROPE

Countries outside Europe often apply stricter rules. Here are a few examples:

United States:

CBD derived from hemp with less than 0.3% THC has been legal at federal level since the 2018 Farm Bill legalization. However, some states still impose severe restrictions on the sale and possession of CBD. For example, Idaho, South Dakota and Nebraska ban CBD altogether, except under very limited medical conditions.

Other states, on the other hand, allow the transport and possession of THC-free CBD without noticeable restrictions, provided the product complies with local regulations. Here are a few states where traveling with THC-free CBD is permitted:

California: Fully authorizes the purchase and possession of THC-free CBD.

Colorado: CBD is legal in all forms, including THC-free.

New York: Allows possession and use of THC-free CBD.

Texas: THC-free CBD is permitted, but a certificate of analysis is recommended to prove compliance.

Florida: THC-free CBD is legal, but must be purchased from licensed sellers.

In any case, it is strongly advised to check the regulations specific to each state before traveling with CBD.

Source

Canada :

In Canada, although cannabis and CBD are legal for adults, it is illegal to import or export cannabis in any form, including CBD-containing products, without a valid permit or exemption from Health Canada. This prohibition even applies to THC-free products. Consequently, it is not permitted to travel with CBD, even without THC, to or from Canada.

In addition, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) stipulates that crossing the Canadian border with cannabis, including CBD products, without proper declaration is a serious criminal offence that can result in arrest or prosecution.

It is therefore strongly recommended not to attempt to import or export CBD products to or from Canada, even if they do not contain THC, to avoid any legal problems.

https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/cannabis-fra.html

Australia:

In Australia, the use of CBD products is legal only in a medical setting and requires a valid medical prescription. THC-free CBD products are available to patients, but access to them is strictly regulated. Since 2021, low-dose CBD has been reclassified as a Schedule 3 drug, allowing some CBD products to be accessible over the counter without a prescription, subject to strict approval processes.

However, the manufacture, distribution and consumption of CBD remain highly regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Medical CBD products must meet strict quality and safety standards to protect patients. It is important to note that importing and exporting CBD is generally illegal without a proper license.

https://www.littlegreenpharma.com/au/cbd/legality/?

Japan:

CBD is legal provided it contains absolutely no trace of THC. Japan's narcotics law strictly prohibits even the slightest trace of THC in products imported or sold in the country. Products must be derived from hemp stalks and seeds, as the use of leaves and flowers is prohibited. Any infringement can result in severe penalties, including fines and prison sentences. It is therefore crucial to ensure that CBD products are compliant before entering Japan.

Source

Dubai and United Arab Emirates:

The possession, use and importation of CBD is strictly prohibited in the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai. Any form of cannabis-derived product, even without THC, is classified as a controlled substance under federal narcotics law. Penalties for possession include prison sentences, substantial fines and confiscation of the product. Even transit with CBD through Emirati airports can lead to legal complications. It is strongly advised not to travel with CBD to or via the Emirates.

Source

Before traveling, it's crucial to check local laws and avoid any unnecessary risks.

Practical tips for travelling with CBD

Check the laws of the destination country before taking CBD with you.

Choose THC-free oils rather than flowers to avoid confusion with illegal cannabis.

Transport the product in its original packaging, accompanied by proof of purchase.

Check with airlines, as some prohibit the transport of CBD even in countries where it is legal.

Regulations vary from one carrier to another:

Turkish Airlines: No official information on CBD authorization. It is recommended to contact the airline before travelling.

Air France: Authorizes the transport of CBD under certain conditions, provided the THC content complies with local regulations.

Swiss International Air Lines: Accepts CBD shipments provided they comply with the laws of the countries of departure and destination.

British Airways: Allows CBD, but advises passengers to check local regulations before boarding.

Iberia: Tolerates CBD if products comply with local laws, but recommends carrying only oils and capsules.

Virgin Atlantic: Does not explicitly mention CBD in its terms and conditions, but follows local regulations in the countries it serves.

Lufthansa: Acceptance of CBD shipments subject to compliance with local legislation.

Finnair: Allows CBD, but recommends that passengers carry documents attesting to its legal compliance.

Some Middle Eastern airlines, such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, totally prohibit the transport of CBD in any form. It is therefore strongly recommended to consult the airline's website before travelling.

Why choose Naturalpes CBD oil?

Naturalpes CBD Wellness oil stands out for its quality, absence of THC and compliance with Swiss and European regulations. Carefully crafted from high-quality hemp, it undergoes rigorous controls to guarantee its purity.

Conclusion

Travelling with CBD is possible in many countries, but it's essential to get the facts before you go.

Each country applies its own rules, and penalties for non-compliance can be severe.

If you're traveling with CBD, it's advisable to opt for THC-free oils, such as Naturalpes Wellness Oil, to avoid any risks associated with local regulations.

Keeping the product's packaging can also be useful in the event of an inspection, as it can be used to prove compliance with current legislation. In case of doubt, it's best to avoid traveling with CBD to avoid any legal risk.

Written by Johann Boschung