Cbd Legality In Austria: What's The Current Status?

The legality of CBD in Austria is a complex issue. While CBD oil is legal in the country, there are several regulations and restrictions surrounding its use, possession, and sale. Austria generally follows European Union guidelines regarding CBD and hemp-derived products, but there are some unique aspects to its laws. Understanding the legal landscape of CBD in Austria is essential for both consumers and businesses operating in this market.

CBD products in Austria must contain less than 0.3% THC

Firstly, CBD products cannot be labelled as medicines, food supplements, or cosmetics. Instead, they must be labelled as flavoured goods, raw materials, or aroma products. This means that CBD edibles and capsules are illegal in Austria.

Secondly, the sale and cultivation of marijuana in Austria is considered a crime. Possession of any drugs in Austria can be punishable by a fine or imprisonment, depending on the amount of the substance carried. For example, possession of 20 grams of THC can result in a fine or imprisonment of up to six months.

Thirdly, medical marijuana is legal in Austria but only in the form of creams, ointments, or oils. Doctors rarely prescribe it, and insurers are reluctant to cover the costs. Additionally, dried hemp cannot be prescribed by doctors.

Finally, it is important to note that the regulations surrounding CBD in Austria fall into a “grey zone". While the use and cultivation of small amounts of cannabis for personal use are not prosecuted by the police, the trade and production of CBD are theoretically strictly prohibited.

CBD is not allowed to be labelled as a food supplement or medicine

CBD products were widely available and legal in Austria for many years. However, in 2018, the Austrian government introduced new regulations that prohibited the sale of food and cosmetic products containing CBD. This means that CBD products cannot be labelled as food supplements or medicines.

The main change is that manufacturers and sellers can only label their products as flavoured goods or raw materials. This restriction has made it illegal to sell and use CBD foods, capsules, or edibles in Austria. However, it is still possible to buy CBD oil, as long as it is properly labelled.

The Austrian government justified its decision by stating that there is a lack of effective quality control over CBD products, and the safety of these products for personal use is unknown. This means that companies selling CBD products in Austria must ensure that their products comply with the new regulations and are not marketed as food supplements or medicines.

The sale of CBD products as food supplements or medicines is prohibited in Austria, but it is important to note that the purchase and possession of CBD products by private individuals are still permitted, as long as the THC content does not exceed 0.3%. This limit on THC content applies to all CBD products, including oils, flowers, and teas.

Possession of cannabis for personal use is not prosecuted

The possession of cannabis for personal use in Austria falls into a legal "grey zone". While the trade and production of cannabis are theoretically prohibited, the possession of cannabis for personal use and the cultivation of small amounts are not prosecuted by the police.

In 2016, the possession of up to 20 grams of cannabis was decriminalised in Austria. This means that while it is not explicitly legal, citizens found in possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use will not be arrested or prosecuted. This is part of Austria's more lenient approach to cannabis laws, which aims to prevent unreasonable arrests for cannabis possession.

However, it is important to note that selling, giving, buying, or possessing larger quantities of cannabis is a punishable criminal offence. The sale and cultivation of marijuana are considered crimes, and those caught dealing in large quantities can face imprisonment and hefty fines.

Additionally, the Austrian government has imposed strict regulations on CBD products. While CBD oil is still legal, it must be properly labelled and contain less than 0.3% THC. CBD foods, capsules, and cosmetics are prohibited, and manufacturers cannot label their products as medicines, dietary supplements, or cosmetics.

CBD is sold in Austria as an aroma product

This means that it is currently illegal to sell and use CBD foods or capsules in Austria. Nevertheless, it is still possible to buy CBD oil, as long as it is properly labelled. The labelling must state that the product is not for human consumption and that it is an aroma product.

The Austrian government explained that their decision to tighten regulations on CBD was due to a lack of effective quality control of cannabidiol products. They claim that patients use these products but no one knows how safe they are for personal use.

The sale of CBD is allowed both online and in person in Austria, although online sales are more popular, probably due to the wider range of products available. If you are planning to start a CBD-oriented business in Austria, you should be careful to choose a trusted and accredited supplier.

It is important to note that the regulations around CBD in Austria can be considered a grey area and are subject to change. Always check for the most up-to-date information before making any decisions about buying or selling CBD products in Austria.

CBD oil is legal in Austria

Secondly, the way CBD products are labelled is important. They cannot be labelled as medicines, food supplements, or cosmetics. Instead, they must be labelled as flavoured goods or raw materials, such as "aroma products". This restriction is directed at companies rather than private consumers.

The legal status of CBD in Austria falls into a "grey zone". While the cultivation and trafficking of hemp products are mostly illegal, those using them for personal use are rarely prosecuted. The sale and cultivation of marijuana in Austria are considered crimes, but possession for personal use is not.

CBD oil can be purchased both online and in-person in Austria, although online shopping is more popular due to the wider range of products available. When buying CBD oil, it is important to only order from reputable websites to avoid any legal issues.

Overall, while CBD oil is legal in Austria, it is important to be aware of the specific regulations and restrictions surrounding its use, production, and sale.

Frequently asked questions