Is Weed Legal in Malta? (April 2024)

Yes, cannabis is fully legal in Malta, for both medical and recreational use. Malta was the first country in the EU to legalize recreational cannabis. Having set the pace, neighboring countries  such as Italy and Greece are having positive discussions around legalizing cannabis.

About Malta

Malta aka the navel of the Mediterranean is one of the world’s smallest countries (island) with a population of less than a million people. It lies between Sicily and Libya (Northernmost part of Africa).  One interesting fact about Malta is that at any point one would expect to find more tourists than residents in this country. This just goes to prove how scenic this island is! Malta is also popular for its numerous historic sites including megalithic temples, fortresses, and burial chambers.

Is Medical Cannabis Legal in Malta?

Yes, medical cannabis was legalized in Malta in 2018. Prior to this, the nation had legalized the use of synthetic cannabinoids such as Sativex for the treatment of spasticity. However, the roll out of this program was slow. In 2018, the government legalized medical cannabis for the treatment of chronic pain, spasticity, and chemotherapy-related side effects. Patients need a prescription from a medical doctor and the cannabis can only be given out by a pharmacist.

Is Hemp Legal in Malta?

Yes, hemp is legal in Malta just as it is with other EU countries. Under the new EU law, legal hemp should not exceed 0.3% THC.

Is CBD Legal in Malta?

Sure, hemp-derived CBD is legal in Malta. One can easily spot CBD stores in Valletta and neighboring Malta towns. Malta is part of the European Union (EU) and is therefore beholden to EU laws on hemp which prohibit member states from restricting cross border CBD trade.

Is Recreational Cannabis Legal in Malta?

Yes, recreational cannabis was legalized in Malta towards the end of 2021. In December 2021, the Maltese parliament passed the  “Authority on the Responsible Use of Cannabis” Bill; 36 members voted for while 27 voted against.

There are no recreational dispensaries in Malta but the county has cannabis social clubs instead. A club can have up to 500 members. The clubs support its members to grow their own cannabis at home. Members can get up to 20 cannabis seeds per month. Members can also get 7 grams of cannabis each day, with a maximum of 50 grams per month. Users are however not allowed to consume cannabis in public.

The bill was signed into law by Malta’s President George Vella four days later, Vella having rejected calls by its opponents for him to refuse to do so.

Cannabis Penalties in Malta

The penalties for breaking cannabis laws in Malta are not as steep. In early 2022, and after  recreational cannabis had been legalized, a Maltese doctor was arrested and charged for giving cannabis to his patients. Dr. Andrew Agius, was charged with drug trafficking and selling imported cannabis to his patients to relieve back pain. This caused an uproar from cannabis enthusiasts in Malta.

If you are caught with more than 7 grams of cannabis in public you will be liable to pay a fine of €50 to €100 fine. Underage offenders are however enrolled in a “care plan” set by the government and that’s geared towards preventing drug abuse by the youth.

Can You Grow Weed at Home in Malta?

Yes, adults above 18 years can grow a maximum of four plants of cannabis per household. Cannabis seeds can be purchased from cannabis social clubs that are always open to new memberships.

Is Malta Europe’s Cannabis Haven?

Malta was the first EU country to fully legalize cannabis. However, it's not so easy to get some good quality legal weed if you are visiting Malta. There are no recreational dispensaries and the only way to purchase weed legally is through social club membership. With a cap of 50 grams monthly, it is highly unlikely that your host will have some leftovers to spare. That said, the illicit weed market in Malta is rife and you can get some of the dankiest weed with a few dollars.