As of 2025, Canada permits both recreational and medical cannabis use for adults. However, U.S. citizens planning to consume or purchase cannabis while visiting Canada should be aware of specific regulations and restrictions. Canada legalized recreational cannabis nationwide in October 2018 under the Cannabis Act. Adults aged 18 or 19 and over (depending on the province) can legally:
Purchase cannabis from licensed retailer.
Possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent in public.
Consume cannabis in private residences and designated public areas, subject to provincial and municipal regulations. Each province and territory may have additional rules regarding consumption locations, possession limits, and age requirements.
Border Regulations: Entering and Exiting Canada
While cannabis is legal within Canada, strict laws govern its transportation across international borders:
- *Do Not Bring Cannabis into Canada: It is illegal to bring cannabis or any cannabis products, including CBD, into Canada without authorization. This applies regardless of the amount or form and includes medical cannabis. Violations can result in arrest and prosecution.
- *Do Not Take Cannabis Out of Canada: Exporting cannabis from Canada is also illegal. Travelers attempting to leave Canada with cannabis may face serious criminal penalties.
Travelers must declare any cannabis in their possession to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) upon arrival. Failure to declare can lead to fines, seizure of the cannabis, and potential criminal charges.
U.S. Medical Marijuana Cards in Canada
Canada does not recognize U.S. medical marijuana card. U.S. citizens cannot use their medical cannabis authorizations to access cannabis in Canada. All cannabis purchases must be made through licensed Canadian retailers, and possession limits apply equally to residents and visitors.
Importing medical cannabis into Canada is prohibited unless authorized by Health Canada, which is rare and typically reserved for specific medical treatments.
Traveling Within Canada with Cannabis
Once legally purchased in Canada, adults can travel within the country with up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent. However, travelers should be aware of and comply with the specific laws of each province or territory they visit, as regulations can vary.
Returning to the U.S. with Cannabis
U.S. federal law classifies cannabis as a Schedule I controlled substance. Bringing cannabis into the United States from Canada is illegal, regardless of state laws or medical authorization. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces these laws strictly.
Consequences for attempting to import cannabis into the U.S. include:
- Seizure of the cannabis.
- Fines and potential criminal charges.
- Denial of entry into the U.S.
Travelers should not attempt to cross the border with any cannabis products, even if legally purchased in Canada.
Summary
- Legal Use: U.S. citizens can legally purchase and consume cannabis in Canada, adhering to local laws and possession limits.
- Medical Cards: U.S. medical marijuana cards are not valid in Canada.
- Border Crossing: Do not bring cannabis into or out of Canada.
- Travel Within Canada: Legal, within possession limits and provincial regulations
For more information, consult the Canada Border Services Agency and Health Canada websites.