The legal situation surrounding cannabis in Austria is a constant source of confusion. While Germany's partial legalization in 2024 opened up new avenues, Austria remains more cautious on the issue. But what exactly is permitted, what is prohibited, and what will the status of medical cannabis, CBD, and recreational use be in 2025?
| Area | Regulation / Status | Details / Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Legal basis | The Narcotics Act (SMG) regulates cannabis in Austria. | Possession, acquisition, cultivation, import, etc. of cannabis containing THC are generally prohibited – except for medical use. |
| Recreational use | Still illegal. | Possession of THC cannabis without medication can be prosecuted, depending on the quantity and circumstances. Enforcement varies by region. |
| Medical use | Allowed, but restricted. | There are approved medicines such as "Sativex" for the treatment of MS symptoms. Extracts/preparations such as dronabinol/nabilone are also permitted under strict conditions. Flowers are rarely available through regular healthcare. |
| CBD products / low in THC (< 0,3%) | Legally applicable terms. | CBD flowers with up to 0,3% THC are not classified as addictive, but are subject to new regulations. The sale of certain legal hemp flowers through tobacco shops is planned, and permits have been granted. |
| Sales through tobacconists | Partially implemented. | Wholesale licenses for the distribution of legal hemp flowers have been obtained, and sales in tobacco shops are expected from the end of July 2025. |
| Criminality / small quantities | Possession of small amounts is handled differently. | Often, prosecution is more lenient, with counseling instead of criminal proceedings if no trading, etc., is involved. However, legal consequences are possible. |
Key points in detail
Medical cannabis
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In Austria, there are approved medications containing cannabis ingredients: e.g., Sativex , a combination of extracts, for the treatment of spasmodic MS symptoms.
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Other preparations such as dronabinol or nabilone are also available, but subject to strict medical and pharmaceutical regulations. Flower (containing THC) is not regularly covered by health insurance.
Low CBD & THC (< 0,3%)
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Products with CBD and very low THC content are legal and not classified as addictive, but there are new regulations.
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An important step: According to the Ministry of Finance, wholesale licenses for the distribution of these legal hemp flowers have already been granted. Sales through tobacco shops are expected.
Legalization & political debate
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Full legalization (THC cannabis for recreational use) is not in effect and is not being seriously implemented by politicians so far.
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However, there are public debates and demands from initiatives and political groups, particularly in light of developments in neighboring countries.
Short summary: What is allowed and what is not?
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✅ Medical use is permitted, but strictly regulated.
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✅ CBD products / low-THC hemp flowers (< 0,3%) are legal under certain conditions and sales via tobacconists are planned.
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❌ Recreational use of THC-containing cannabis flowers remains illegal.
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⚠️ Possession of small quantities may be punished mildly, but legal risks remain.
