Medical Cannabis in Jamaica

Jamaica has a unique and tourist-friendly approach to cannabis. While possession of small amounts is decriminalized, the legal way for visitors to purchase and consume cannabis is through the medical/therapeutic framework at licensed dispensaries.

Here is a breakdown of the rules for tourists accessing cannabis in Jamaica:

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Medical Cannabis Access for Tourists in Jamaica

The process is generally quick, inexpensive, and designed to cater to visitors.

1. Medical Recommendation (The “Permit to Purchase”)

To legally purchase cannabis products from a licensed dispensary (often called an “Herb House”), a tourist must have a medical recommendation.

• Overseas Medical Cards are Accepted: If you have a valid medical cannabis card or a doctor’s recommendation from your home country, most licensed dispensaries will accept it as proof of your need.
• Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old and present a valid government-issued photo ID (like a passport).

2. Purchase and Possession Limits

• Purchase Location: You can only legally purchase cannabis from a licensed dispensary (Herb House) that is regulated by the Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA). Street purchases remain illegal.
• Possession Limit: The law allows adults to possess up to 2 ounces (approx. 56.6 grams) of cannabis. Possession of this amount is decriminalized, meaning you will not be arrested, but you may be issued a ticket (fine). However, your legal purchase under a medical recommendation helps ensure compliance.

3. Consumption Rules

• Designated Areas Only: It is illegal to smoke or consume cannabis in a public place (e.g., on the beach, streets, or in parks). This rule is similar to public smoking laws for cigarettes.
• Herb Houses/Dispensaries: Licensed dispensaries often have on-site consumption lounges or designated smoking areas where you can legally use the products you purchase.
• Hotels/Resorts: Many cannabis-friendly resorts have specific policies and designated areas for consumption on their property.

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Key Tourist DOs and DON’Ts

DO	DON’T
DO visit a licensed dispensary/Herb House.	DON’T buy cannabis from street vendors or unlicensed sellers.
DO carry your passport/ID and your medical recommendation (or overseas card) when making a purchase.	DON’T consume cannabis in public places (streets, public beaches, etc.).
DO use the on-site doctor service if you don’t have an existing medical card.	DON’T possess more than the 2-ounce legal limit.
DO purchase an imported cannabis-based product in its original, pharmacy-labeled container if you need to bring your own medicine.	DON’T attempt to take cannabis purchased in Jamaica out of the country. International travel with cannabis is highly illegal.