Is Weed Legal in Chile?

Medical Cannabis Program

Chile established its medical cannabis program in 2015, allowing patients with specific medical conditions to access cannabis-based treatments. The program is regulated by the Ministry of Health, which oversees the cultivation, production, and distribution of medical cannabis products. The initiative aims to provide patients with alternative treatment options while ensuring safety and efficacy through regulation.

Qualifying Conditions

• Cancer
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Chronic Pain
• Epilepsy
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• HIV/AIDS
• Glaucoma
• Any other conditions at the 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 maintained by the Ministry of Health.
3. Pay an application fee, which typically ranges from 10,000 to 30,000 Chilean Pesos (approximately $12 to $36 USD).
4. Receive the medical cannabis card, which usually takes about 30 days to process.

Card Validity & Renewal

Medical cannabis cards in Chile are generally valid for a period of one year. To renew the card, patients must undergo a similar process as the initial application, including a consultation with a licensed physician. The renewal fee is typically similar to the initial application fee, ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 Chilean Pesos.

Purchase & Possession Limits

Medical cannabis patients in Chile are allowed to possess up to 40 grams of cannabis per month. The purchase limits may vary depending on the specific product and the physician's recommendation, but patients can generally obtain sufficient quantities to meet their medical needs within this limit.

Allowed Forms

Patients can access various forms of medical cannabis, including flower, oils, tinctures, and capsules. However, the availability of specific forms may depend on the dispensary and the products they carry. Edibles and concentrates are not widely available under the current regulations.

Where to Buy

Medical cannabis can be purchased at licensed dispensaries across Chile. As of now, there are approximately 30 registered medical cannabis dispensaries in the country. Patients can locate these dispensaries through the Ministry of Health's official website or by consulting their prescribing physician for recommendations.

Recreational Status

Recreational use of cannabis remains illegal in Chile. Possession of small amounts for personal use can lead to administrative penalties, including fines. Possession of larger quantities or trafficking can result in criminal charges, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment for several years, depending on the severity of the offense.

Future Outlook

As of October 2023, there are ongoing discussions regarding the potential legalization of recreational cannabis in Chile. Several lawmakers and advocacy groups are pushing for reforms, and there have been proposals to introduce legislation that would allow for regulated recreational use. However, no definitive measures have been passed, and the future of recreational cannabis legalization remains uncertain.