Does Costa Rica have a recreational use program?

No, Costa Rica does not have a recreational use program.

Does Costa Rica have a medical program?

Yes, medical cannabis is legal in Costa Rica. In March 2022, Carlos Alvarado, the president of Costa Rica, passed a law permitting the therapeutic and medical use of marijuana.

What are the rules for medical use?

To obtain medicinal cannabis, residents must obtain a prescription from a physician and obtain it through authorized channels, such as pharmacies.

Organizations that want to grow medical marijuana have to adhere to certain regulatory requirements in addition to registering with the relevant national health agencies.

What are the qualifying medical conditions for eligibility?

Conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and PTSD.

What are the medical program limits?

Prescriptions from other countries are not honored in Costa Rica, and visitors are not permitted to obtain or import medicinal marijuana.

Growing for one’s use is prohibited. Businesses that want to grow medical marijuana need to register and agree to several requirements and inspections.

What methods of use are permitted under the medical program?

No clear medical rules yet.

Is there home delivery for medical cannabis?

No clear medical rules yet. 

Is CBD legal in Costa Rica?

No, CBD is not legal in Costa Rica. The country’s health officials classify any product containing cannabis or its derivatives as “drugs” and regulate them. Even though CBD is not officially specified in Costa Rica’s drug regulations, this suggests that CBD sales, purchases, and consumption may be prohibited.

Is cannabis decriminalized in Costa Rica?

Yes, cannabis is decriminalized in Costa Rica. Since the law does not define a legal limit for personal possession, police enforcement is free to decide what is considered a reasonable amount. Cannabis possession, sale, or cultivation can result in 8–15 years in prison, depending on the amount and circumstances. However, law enforcement typically ignores small-scale possession and use, especially in tourist areas.