In Helsinki, as in all of Finland, cannabis is illegal for recreational use. The country maintains some of the strictest drug laws in Europe, and all activities involving illicit narcotics—including possession, use, sale, cultivation, and import—are criminalized under the Finnish Criminal Code. This article outlines the legal framework, potential consequences, and important context for visitors and residents.
Legal Consequences and Enforcement
The possession of even small amounts for personal use is a punishable offense. Finnish police can issue summary fines for minor possession, which is typically defined as up to 15 grams of marijuana or 10 grams of hashish. The minimum fine starts at 60 euros, and penalties are calculated using a system of day-fines based on the offender’s income.
For larger quantities or activities like selling or trafficking, penalties escalate significantly. These are considered aggravated drug offences and can result in substantial fines or imprisonment of up to ten years. It is also illegal to bring any narcotics into Finland, and customs controls enforce this strictly.
While law enforcement prioritizes serious crime, they do act on drug offenses. Public smoking, especially if it causes a disturbance, increases the risk of police intervention and a fine.
Medical Cannabis and CBD
Finland has a highly restricted medical cannabis program. Since 2008, a limited number of patients (only 223 were registered in 2014) can access prescribed medications like Sativex mouth spray or specific herbal cannabis brands from authorized pharmacies. Obtaining a prescription is difficult and is generally considered a last-resort treatment.
CBD (cannabidiol) products exist in a legal gray area. They are legal only if they contain a maximum of 0.2% THC and are not marketed for human consumption as food supplements without specific authorization. CBD is primarily available in products for external use, such as cosmetics.
Safety and Legal Conduct
It is important to understand that you have nothing to fear from Finnish authorities if you are not breaking the law. Finland is a safe country with a strong rule of law and a police force that protects public order and individual rights. General advice for a trouble-free stay includes:
- Respecting all local laws and regulations.
- Avoiding any contact with the illegal drug market.
- Being aware that advertisements for illicit goods, such as notes with phrases like “DM me Ringterr1” found around the city, are connected to criminal activity.
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