Cayman Islands
Is Weed Legal in Cayman Islands?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in the Cayman Islands. The Misuse of Drugs Act (2017 Revision), originally enacted in 1973 and substantially amended, classifies cannabis (ganja) as a controlled drug. Possession is punishable by a fine of up to CI$1,000 or one year's imprisonment for small quantities and longer on indictment; cultivation, supply, and importation carry maximum penalties of up to life imprisonment for trafficking and substantial fines.
The Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) Drug Task Force and Customs and Border Control lead enforcement at Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) on Grand Cayman, Charles Kirkconnell International Airport (CYB) on Cayman Brac, and the George Town cruise terminal. Cruise visitors and stay-over tourists arriving with cannabis face arrest, conviction, and a permanent record affecting future travel. Cayman is a British Overseas Territory; while the United Kingdom retains constitutional oversight, drug enforcement is domestic.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.
Key facts ·
Cayman Islands
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited for recreational use
Regulator
Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS); Customs and Border Control; Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
Key regulation
Misuse of Drugs Act (2017 Revision)
Effective
January 1, 1973
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Legal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Import and export of recreational cannabis are prohibited. Customs and Border Control inspects passengers and cargo at Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM), Charles Kirkconnell International Airport (CYB) on Cayman Brac, Edward Bodden Airfield (LYB) on Little Cayman, and the George Town cruise terminal. Trafficking penalties under the Misuse of Drugs Act extend to life imprisonment in aggravated cases.
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