Canada
Overview
Canada was the second country in the world to legalize recreational cannabis at the federal level, in October 2018 (Uruguay was first, in 2013). This means that any adult of legal age can legally purchase, possess and consume cannabis — including foreign tourists.
Dispensaries (called cannabis stores) are regulated retail shops with trained staff, standardized products, and packaging with dosage and potency information.
Tip: Bring your passport or any government-issued photo ID showing your date of birth.
Legal Status
| Item | Status |
|---|---|
| Federal status | ✅ Legal since October 2018 (Cannabis Act) |
| Who can purchase | Adults (minimum age varies by province) |
| Tourists can buy? | ✅ Yes, with valid photo ID |
| Online sales | Available in some provinces |
| Public consumption | Varies by province |
Purchase & Possession Limits
- Public possession limit: 30 grams (approx. 1 oz)
- Per-transaction purchase limit: 30 grams
- At home: No federal limit for personal use (rental properties may restrict)
- Home cultivation: Up to 4 plants per residence
⚠️ WARNING: Carrying cannabis across international borders is a federal crime, even if the destination also has legal cannabis. Never carry cannabis when crossing borders — including connections through US airports.
Rules by Province
| Province | Minimum Age | Retail Model | Public Consumption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario (ON) | 19+ | Licensed private stores | Where tobacco smoking is allowed |
| British Columbia (BC) | 19+ | Public (BC Cannabis Stores) + private | Municipal rules apply |
| Alberta (AB) | 18+ | Private stores | Where tobacco is allowed |
| Quebec (QC) | 21+ | Public stores (SQDC) | Prohibited in public spaces |
| Manitoba (MB) | 19+ | Private stores | Municipal rules |
| Saskatchewan (SK) | 19+ | Private stores | Local rules |
| Nova Scotia (NS) | 19+ | Public + private stores | Local rules |
| New Brunswick (NB) | 19+ | Public stores (Cannabis NB) | Local rules |
Alberta: the only province with 18+
If you are 18, Alberta (Calgary, Edmonton) is the only major province where you can legally purchase. All others require 19+ (or 21 in Quebec).
Where to Consume Legally
✅ Generally allowed:
- In your private residence (hotels may prohibit — confirm with property)
- On private property with owner's permission
- Some designated outdoor areas (varies by city)
❌ Generally prohibited:
- In vehicles (even parked)
- Near schools, daycares and children's recreation areas
- In enclosed public spaces
- In most hotels and Airbnbs
- In national parks and federal lands
Types of Products
🌿 Flower (Dried Cannabis)
The classic product — dried plant material for smoking or vaporizing. Dozens of strains categorized as Sativa, Indica, or Hybrid.
💨 Pre-rolls
Ready-to-smoke cannabis cigarettes. Convenient for tourists who don't want to buy equipment.
🫧 Vaporizers (Vapes)
Oil concentrate cartridges for use with vaporizer devices. Discreet with less odor.
🍫 Edibles
Chocolates, gummies, beverages and other cannabis-infused foods. Tourist warning: Effects take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. Do not consume more thinking it "didn't work" — this is the most common mistake.
💧 Oils & Tinctures
Oils for oral or sublingual (under the tongue) consumption. Good for precise dosage control.
💊 Capsules / Softgels
Precise dosing in capsule format. Discreet and predictable effects.
🧴 Topicals
Creams, lotions and balms with CBD or THC for skin application. No psychoactive effects when applied topically.
Tips for Tourists
First time in a cannabis store?
- Present your passport or photo ID with date of birth
- Don't hesitate to ask — budtenders are trained and used to tourists
- State your experience level: beginner, intermediate, or experienced
- Start with low doses, especially with edibles
- Ask for lower THC products for your first time (under 15%)
Common questions:
- "Do I need a passport?" — Any government-issued photo ID works.
- "Do they accept international cards?" — Most accept Visa/Mastercard, but carry some cash.
- "Can I bring cannabis back to my home country?" — Absolutely not. This is a crime in both countries.
FAQ
Can I buy cannabis online as a tourist? Some provinces allow online purchases with delivery, but you need a Canadian delivery address. In-store purchase is the easiest option for tourists.
Can I drive after consuming cannabis? No. Driving under the influence of cannabis is a criminal offense in Canada, similar to drunk driving. Blood THC limits are very low.
What if I have more than 30g in public? Possessing more than 30g in public is a criminal offense. Stay within the limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can tourists buy cannabis in Canada?
- Yes. Any adult aged 18 or 19+ (varies by province) can buy at licensed dispensaries with a valid photo ID. A Brazilian passport is accepted.
- What is the cannabis possession limit in Canada?
- 30 grams in public spaces. At home, there is no federal limit for personal use. In Alberta, the minimum age is 18; in other provinces it is 19 (or 21 in Quebec).
- Can I buy cannabis online as a tourist in Canada?
- Some provinces allow online purchases with delivery, but you need a Canadian delivery address. In-store purchase is the easiest option for tourists.
- Can I drive after consuming cannabis in Canada?
- No. Driving under the influence of cannabis is a criminal offense in Canada, similar to drunk driving. Blood THC limits are very low.
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