Your Complete Guide to Cannabis in Germany
Germany legalized cannabis on April 1, 2024 — but this is not Amsterdam, and tourists cannot buy it anywhere. 25 grams possession, 3 plants at home, non-profit social clubs with a 6-month residency requirement, and zero retail sales. The most consequential drug policy reform in European history, explained for English speakers.
You Can Possess It But Can't Buy It
This is the fundamental fact visitors must understand: Germany has no retail cannabis sales. No dispensaries, no coffeeshops, no commercial stores. Social clubs require 6 months of German residency. Sharing is illegal. Tourists can legally possess 25 grams and consume in most public spaces — but have no legal way to obtain cannabis.
The gray market reality involves social connections and street dealers, but contaminated street cannabis is the single biggest practical risk — synthetic cannabinoids, Brix, lead, and glass particles have been found in Berlin and Hamburg samples.
Adults 18+ can carry up to 25 grams. This applies to all adults regardless of nationality. No residency requirement for possession.
There are no retail cannabis shops in Germany. Social clubs require 6 months of residency. Sharing is technically illegal transfer.
Synthetic cannabinoids sprayed on hemp, Brix (liquid plastic), lead, glass particles. Never buy from street dealers.
What earns a shrug in Berlin can earn a charge sheet in Munich. Enforcement varies dramatically by state.
City-by-City Cannabis Guide
The Data Says It’s Working
The EKOCAN evaluation found cannabis-related police offenses fell 60–80%, no surge in adult consumption, continued decline in youth use, and legal sourcing growing from 5.4% to 21.4%. The conservative government that pledged repeal has acknowledged cannabis is “no longer a priority topic.”
The Political BattleFor in-depth cannabis education, dosing guides, safety information, and research summaries, visit our partner site TryCannabis.org