CBD is used to support everything from sleep and stress to mood and recovery. But while its popularity grows, so does confusion around its legal status. Is it legal in the UK? What about Europe or the US?
The answers aren't always straightforward.
That’s because laws around CBD differ significantly from country to country and sometimes from region to region. In some places, it’s freely available in shops. In others, it’s tightly restricted or even banned. And when travelling, what’s legal in your home country may not be allowed in your destination.
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant, most commonly extracted from hemp. It’s non-intoxicating and widely studied for its potential benefits in areas like stress relief, inflammation, sleep and anxiety.
CBD is sometimes confused with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the “high”. But unlike THC, CBD doesn’t produce any intoxicating effects, which is why it’s treated differently under many laws.
As interest in CBD grows, so does the scientific backing. A large number of people now use CBD for wellbeing, to sleep better, feel calmer or find more balance day to day. Still, legality remains a sticking point in some parts of the world and the rules aren’t always easy to navigate.
Types of CBD
There are three main types of CBD extract found in products today:
CBD isolate: This is the purest form of cannabidiol. All other plant compounds – including THC, terpenes and other cannabinoids – are removed during processing, leaving just CBD. At Goodrays, we use CBD isolate in our oils, drinks and gummies to ensure consistent, THC-free products that comply with UK law and give users peace of mind.
Broad-spectrum CBD: Broad-spectrum retains other beneficial cannabinoids and plant compounds, but all THC is removed. Some users prefer this format for what’s known as the “entourage effect”, the theory that cannabinoids work better together. However, verifying THC-free status can be more complex with broad-spectrum products, so lab testing is crucial.
Full-spectrum CBD: This format includes the full range of cannabinoids from the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (usually less than 0.2–0.3%). While still non-intoxicating at these levels, full-spectrum CBD is not legal in all countries, especially those with zero-tolerance laws on THC.
It’s essential to choose products from brands that provide third-party lab testing and full transparency, especially if you’re travelling or simply want to know exactly what you’re taking.
Is CBD legal in the UK?
In the UK, CBD is legal provided it meets specific criteria. Products must contain less than 1 mg of THC per container and be derived from an industrial hemp strain approved by the EU.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has been working towards authorising CBD products under the novel foods regulation, although the first approvals, which were expected by spring 2025, have not taken place as yet.
CBD legality across Europe
CBD laws in Europe vary by country, often aligning with EU regulations that permit CBD products containing less than 0.2% THC. However, individual countries have their own stipulations:
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Switzerland permits the sale and use of CBD products under specific conditions, primarily concerning their THC content and intended use. It allows CBD products with up to 1.0% THC, which is significantly higher than the EU norm
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France: CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC
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Italy: As of April 2025, Italy has reclassified CBD oil as a narcotic, effectively banning its sale.
Given the varying regulations, it's advisable to check local laws before purchasing or travelling with CBD products in Europe.
CBD in the United States
At the federal level, CBD derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, individual states have their own laws:
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Fully legal states: California, Colorado, New York and others allow the sale and use of CBD products.
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Conditionally legal states: States like Texas permit CBD oil only under specific medical conditions.
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Illegal states: Nebraska and South Carolina have stringent laws against CBD products.
CBD in Canada
Canada legalised recreational cannabis in 2018 and CBD products are legal nationwide. However, they are regulated under the Cannabis Act and sales are restricted to licensed retailers. Health Canada is considering a new regulatory pathway to make certain CBD products available without a prescription, aiming to improve accessibility.
CBD in Australia
In Australia, CBD is legal for medical use with a prescription. Lower-dose CBD products (containing up to 150 mg/day) were down-scheduled to over-the-counter (OTC) status in 2021, but as of 2025, no products have been approved for OTC sale. Travellers can bring up to a three-month supply of CBD into Australia under the Traveller's Exemption, provided they have a valid prescription.
CBD in Russia
Growing hemp is legal in Russia, but the country maintains strict laws against all cannabis products, including CBD. Possession, sale and production are illegal and can result in severe penalties.
CBD in China
China has stringent regulations regarding cannabis. While industrial hemp cultivation is permitted in certain provinces, the use of CBD in cosmetics was banned in 2021. Importing CBD products into China is illegal and can lead to severe penalties.
CBD in Africa
It is illegal to buy, sell or travel with cannabis, and therefore CBD, in most African countries. CBD is, however, legal in South Africa. It allows the private use and cultivation of cannabis, including CBD, for personal consumption. Since May 2019, medical law permits the consumption of 20 mg of CBD daily, so long as the THC content is below 0.001%. However, commercial sales of CBD products are regulated and recent government actions have created uncertainty in the market.
CBD in the Middle East
Most Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, have strict anti-drug laws. Possession of CBD, regardless of THC content, is illegal and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.
CBD's legal status varies widely across the globe, influenced by local laws and cultural attitudes towards cannabis. Before purchasing or travelling with CBD products, it's essential to research and understand the regulations in your destination country. Always choose reputable brands that provide transparent lab testing to ensure compliance with local laws.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking other medications.