Can I Bring Cannabis Into the UK?

Cannabis is still a prohibited Class B substance in the United Kingdom, and it is illegal to bring any form of cannabis into the country without a valid license issued by the Home Office. According to the Drug Misuse Act 1971, cannabis and most of its derivative substances (cannabinoids) are classified as controlled Class B drugs. Those who cannot afford the high costs of clinic visits may want to consider the “Cancard”, a credential that can be presented to a police officer if someone is arrested for possession of cannabis, to indicate that they are using it for medical reasons. Additionally, individuals in the UK may be able to obtain a cannabis prescription uk or access free stock images uk for their medical cannabis needs. A recent report by the UK Law Commission recommended that “the Government consider the scope of the foreign conduct exception and the need for guidance in relation to transactions involving the legal cannabis industry”.UK investors in legal or recreational cannabis abroad also face potential difficulties because the UK's anti-money laundering legislation means that investors in cannabis businesses abroad could be committing technical money laundering offences. However, while passengers at UK airports who are caught returning with small amounts of cannabis are not likely to be arrested, their drugs will be confiscated.

In November, a medical cannabis study was announced which will test medical cannabis on up to 20,000 patients in the United Kingdom over a two-year period, with the aim of persuading the NHS to modify its guidelines and increase the likelihood that doctors will prescribe CBPM for a range of conditions. The Drug Misuse Act 1971 contains all of the country's cannabis laws, which list a litany of regulations on cannabis and other drugs. Some financial institutions in the United Kingdom, such as Lloyds of London, have publicly confirmed their participation in the global legal cannabis industry, while others are taking a more conservative approach. At present, medical recognition of the cost-benefit argument for medical cannabis is still in its infancy in the United Kingdom. Northern Ireland was the scene of one of the most important cases related to medical cannabis in the United Kingdom.

Possessing, supplying, producing, importing or exporting cannabis is still considered a serious offence in the UK, except with a license from the Home Office. Cannabis is “completely banned” by the Border Force and medical marijuana permits issued abroad will not provide safe passage to the United Kingdom. There is currently a lack of consensus on the potential risks of UK anti-money laundering legislation in relation to investment in cannabis. Similarly, offering funding, insurance, banking services or entering into derivative contracts based on legal investments in cannabis abroad could involve proceeds from crime from a UK perspective. The survey also revealed that 76% of those surveyed would be willing to use medical cannabis if prescribed by a doctor, and that 13% plan to ask their doctor or healthcare provider about access to medical cannabis.

Any cannabis-based product for human medical use (CBPM) supplied to a patient in the United Kingdom must be approved and licensed by both the Medical Health Agency (MHRA) and Home Office.

Emma Matthews
Emma Matthews

Meet Emma, a travel enthusiast from Aukland, now living in Great Britain, on a mission to share the world's wonders. Her blog is your passport to adventure, from London's charming cafes to the Scottish Highlands' rugged trails. Follow her for travel tips, cultural insights, and a dose of wanderlust. Join Emma on her quest to make every journey unforgettable!