Medical Cannabis / THC
Schedule I (U.S. federal)State-legal in ~38 states; federally illegal and banned across most borders.
Overview
Cannabis remains a Schedule I substance under U.S. federal law even though medical cannabis is legal in roughly 38 states and adult-use is legal in many. Federal law governs airports, federal land and international borders, so cannabis cannot be flown between states or carried across any international border — including to and from Canada, where it is legal domestically. Internationally, cannabis ranges from legal (limited) to severe criminal penalties (e.g. Japan, South Korea, UAE).
Travel guidance
- Never fly with cannabis, even between two legal U.S. states — airports are federal jurisdiction.
- Do not carry cannabis across any international border, including the U.S.–Canada border.
- Cruise lines enforce their own zero-tolerance policies regardless of port-state law.
- Japan, South Korea and the UAE impose severe penalties — including prison — for any cannabis or THC.
- A state medical cannabis card is valid only within that state and not at airports.
Documentation to carry
- There is no documentation that authorizes cross-border or air transport of cannabis.
- Within a legal state, carry your state medical cannabis card if you are a registered patient.
Common, costly mistakes
- Flying from one legal state to another with cannabis.
- Bringing legally purchased cannabis home from Canada or a legal U.S. state.
- Assuming CBD-labeled vapes are THC-free.
Legal status by country
Legal status by U.S. state
Federal scheduling applies nationwide; cannabis and CBD vary by state.
Legal status indicators
Official sources
Drug laws change and enforcement varies by port of entry. This is general guidance, not legal advice — always verify with the destination's embassy or health authority before travel.
Traveling with Cannabis / THC?
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