Is Weed Legal in Argentina?

Medical Cannabis Program

The medical cannabis program in Argentina was established in 2017 with the enactment of Law 27.350, which allows the use of cannabis for medical purposes. This law marked a significant shift in the country's approach to cannabis, focusing on providing patients with access to cannabis-based treatments. The program is regulated by the Ministry of Health, which oversees the cultivation, production, and distribution of medical cannabis products.

Qualifying Conditions

• Cancer
• Multiple sclerosis
• Chronic pain
• Epilepsy
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• HIV/AIDS
• Neuropathic pain
• Other conditions as determined by a physician's discretion

How to Get a Medical Card

1. See a licensed physician who is authorized to prescribe medical cannabis.
2. Apply to the national registry managed by the Ministry of Health.
3. Pay an application fee, which typically ranges from ARS 500 to ARS 1,000.
4. Receive the medical cannabis card, usually within 30 days of application submission.

Card Validity & Renewal

Medical cannabis cards in Argentina are generally valid for a period of one year. To renew the card, patients must undergo a reevaluation by their physician and submit a renewal application to the national registry. The renewal process may involve an application fee similar to the initial fee, and patients can expect to receive their renewed card within 30 days.

Purchase & Possession Limits

Medical cannabis patients in Argentina are allowed to purchase and possess up to 40 grams of cannabis per month. This limit is set to ensure that patients have adequate access to their prescribed medication while preventing misuse. The amount can vary based on the physician's recommendations and the specific needs of the patient.

Allowed Forms

Patients in Argentina can access medical cannabis in various forms, including oils, tinctures, and capsules. However, the use of raw flower is not permitted under the current regulations. Concentrates and edibles are also not widely available, as the focus remains on oil-based products for medical use.

Where to Buy

Medical cannabis can be obtained from authorized pharmacies and dispensaries across Argentina. As of now, there are approximately 1,500 pharmacies registered to sell medical cannabis products. Patients can locate these pharmacies through the Ministry of Health's official website or by contacting local health authorities for guidance on nearby dispensaries.

Recreational Status

Recreational use of cannabis remains illegal in Argentina. Possession of small amounts for personal use is decriminalized, meaning that individuals caught with a small quantity may not face criminal charges, but this does not extend to legalizing recreational use. Penalties for possession of larger amounts can include fines and potential imprisonment, depending on the circumstances.

Future Outlook

As of October 2023, there are discussions and proposals regarding the potential legalization of recreational cannabis in Argentina. Various advocacy groups are pushing for reform, and some lawmakers have expressed interest in reviewing the current cannabis laws. However, no formal legislation has been passed, and the timeline for any changes remains uncertain. The future of cannabis legislation in Argentina will depend on public opinion, political will, and ongoing advocacy efforts.