Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Belgium law
Cannabis laws in Antwerp follow Belgium’s national law. This city follows the jurisdiction’s cannabis law framework; separate city laws are typically limited.
Cannabis is illegal under the law, but possession of small personal amounts is decriminalized. Medical cannabis is available in limited forms with prescription. In practice, enforcement priority is low for minor personal possession without aggravating factors.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal (small possession decriminalized)
- Medical: Limited availability
- Possession: Small personal amounts decriminalized
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Subject to the same national policy
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Legislative Background
Belgium decriminalized possession of small amounts (up to 3 grams) for personal adult use in 2003, classifying it as a low-priority administrative offense rather than a criminal one. Medical cannabis access has been available through regulated pharmaceutical channels and specialist prescriptions for qualifying conditions.
Law Enforcement
Every time I came to Antwerp, I saw and smelled people smoking weed. Police often looked the other way unless it was excessive, near a school, or somebody was dealing in public or making trouble. Responses depended on the officer.
You’d hear that under three to five grams would just be confiscated and that separately cut pieces could look like dealing. The newer Marijuana Laws section explains how Belgium treats small personal amounts, which differs from that rule of thumb.
Where to Buy Marijuana
At Groenplaats, one of Antwerp’s main squares, I struck up a conversation with some people who looked like hippies and they helped me out. It helps to come across as a fellow smoker.
“I’ve got my own resources ;)” but young people often knew where to find good weed. It was common enough that you might find it without asking.
Marijuana Prices
Low-quality weed was €2–3 a gram, decent weed about €5. The prices reminded me of the Netherlands, with the border about 10 km north.
Types of Marijuana
Antwerp’s mix of communities meant you could come across almost any kind of weed or hashish.
More Information
In French, shit means hashish and beuh means bud. People bought by the euro amount instead of the gram. Good smoking =)