Quick Facts
| Legal Status | Medical Since | Adult Use | Access Type | Est. Monthly Cost | Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Legal (2017) + Export Programme | 2017 | No | Specialist prescription — limited domestic patient access | €200–€500/month | No |
Legal Timeline
| Year | Development |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Medical cannabis legalised — primarily framed as economic opportunity |
| 2018 | Cultivation licences issued; Greece positions itself as EU cannabis exporter |
| 2019 | First domestic patients enrolled; access limited to specific facilities |
| 2021 | Greece becomes significant cannabis cultivator for EU pharmaceutical export |
| 2023 | Domestic patient access programme reviewed; limited expansion |
How to Access Medical Cannabis in Greece
- Consult a specialist doctor (neurologist, oncologist, or pain specialist) at an authorised hospital or clinic
- Apply through the Greek National Organisation for Medicines (EOF) for a medical cannabis permit
- EOF reviews application — process can take several weeks
- If approved, prescription dispensed at authorised pharmacy or hospital
- Products primarily include standardised dried flower and oil imports
Qualifying Conditions
- Multiple sclerosis
- Chronic pain
- Chemotherapy-related nausea
- Epilepsy
- Neurodegenerative conditions
Licensed Providers & Clinics
| Provider | Website | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| EOF (National Organisation for Medicines) | eof.gr | Greek medicines authority — issues medical cannabis permits |
| Stevia Hellas / domestic growers | Licensed Greek cultivation operations |
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost (€) | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Medical cannabis (monthly) | €200–€500 | Not covered by EFKA |
| Specialist consultation | €50–€150 | Partially covered if via EOPYY |
| EOF permit process | No direct fee | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is medical cannabis legal in Greece?+
Yes — Greece legalised medical cannabis in 2017. The programme is primarily structured around export cultivation, but a domestic patient access pathway exists through the National Organisation for Medicines (EOF). Access for local patients remains limited in practice.
Why does Greece grow so much cannabis if patient access is limited?+
Greece legalised cultivation primarily as an economic opportunity — the country has suitable climate, land, and EU market access for pharmaceutical-grade cannabis export. The domestic patient programme was established but received less policy attention than the export industry.
How do I access medical cannabis in Greece?+
You need a specialist referral and an EOF permit application. The process is bureaucratic and can take weeks to months. Access is primarily available through larger hospitals and specialist centres in Athens and Thessaloniki.
Does Greek health insurance cover medical cannabis?+
EFKA (Greek social insurance) does not currently cover medical cannabis. EOPYY (health services branch) may cover specialist consultations but not the cannabis medication itself.
Is Greece likely to expand patient access?+
Patient advocacy groups have pushed for improved access. The Greek government has prioritised the economic aspects of the cannabis industry, and patient programme expansion is discussed but has moved slowly.
Can tourists access medical cannabis in Greece?+
No — the medical programme is only for Greek residents with valid prescriptions. Recreational cannabis remains illegal in Greece.