Is Weed Legal in Bali? Indonesia’s Zero-Tolerance Laws Explained

Bali’s reputation as a tropical paradise often creates dangerous misconceptions about drug laws, but the reality for cannabis users couldn’t be more stark. Unlike neighboring Thailand, which removed cannabis from the narcotics list in June 2022 but has since moved toward prescription-only and medical-only controls by 2025, Indonesia maintains one of the world’s most stringent anti-drug policies, where cannabis is classified as a Narcotics Group I (Golongan I) substance under Narcotics Law No. 35 of 2009. This prohibition applies equally to tourists and locals, with no exceptions for medical use. Whether you’re planning a wellness retreat or beach vacation, understanding these laws is critical for your safety and freedom. For comprehensive information about global cannabis policies and their evolution, explore Herb’s Editorial & How-Tos section.

• Complete prohibition: Cannabis is completely illegal in Bali and all of Indonesia, with no medical or recreational exceptions
• Severe penalties: Certain possession charges carry 4 to 12 years imprisonment plus fines of Rp 800 million to Rp 8 billion (roughly $48,000 to $476,000 USD at ~IDR 16,820/USD, Feb 2026); actual sentences are charge-dependent
• Importing charges at airports: Bringing any cannabis product into Indonesia can trigger importing/trafficking-type charges with multi-year minimums (e.g., 5+ years under certain provisions)
• Death penalty possible: For certain trafficking offenses involving quantities such as over 1 kg (plant form) or over 5 grams (non-plant form), defendants can face life imprisonment or the death penalty, though it is not automatic
• No medical exemptions: Foreign prescriptions for medical cannabis are invalid under Indonesian law; CBD oils are commonly treated as cannabis-derived products and should be considered high-risk/likely illegal
• Regular foreigner arrests: Tourists face regular arrests for cannabis offenses, with “I didn’t know” offering no legal defense
• Embassy limitations: Consulates can visit and provide lawyer referrals but cannot secure release or pay legal fees

Indonesia’s approach to cannabis stems from its comprehensive narcotics framework that categorizes marijuana among the most dangerous class of controlled substances. The Narcotics Law No. 35 of 2009 establishes strict enforcement with severe penalties, making no distinction between recreational users, medical patients, or tourists unaware of local laws. Unlike global trends toward decriminalization, Indonesia has actively reinforced its prohibitionist stance.

In July 2022, the Indonesian Constitutional Court rejected a petition challenging the Group I narcotics classification in the context of medical cannabis use, confirming the government’s unwavering position. This decision stands in stark contrast to Thailand’s 2022 decriminalization, though Thailand itself has since tightened its rules to prescription-only and medical-only controls by 2025, meaning the cannabis landscape across Southeast Asia is evolving rapidly.

Under Indonesia’s Narcotics Group I (Golongan I) schedule, the definition of narcotics encompasses a broad range of cannabis-related substances:

• Plant material: Marijuana flower, leaves, seeds, hash/hashish, and all parts of the cannabis plant (including processed products and resin), as explicitly listed in the schedule
• THC: Tetrahydrocannabinol is separately and explicitly listed as a Group I narcotic
• CBD products: While CBD (cannabidiol) is not explicitly listed by name in the Group I schedule, CBD oils are commonly treated as cannabis-derived products in practice. Travelers should assume CBD oils are high-risk and likely illegal unless they have explicit written confirmation from Indonesian authorities
• Other processed products: Edibles, tinctures, oils, concentrates, and vape cartridges containing cannabis compounds
• Cannabis residue: Any cannabis residue found on items such as pipes, bongs, or grinders can be treated as possession of narcotics. A clean pipe or grinder is not necessarily illegal on its own, but any residue present can trigger charges

This broad prohibition means that even trace amounts, such as cannabis residue in luggage, can trigger arrest and prosecution. The law provides no “personal use” exemptions or de minimis quantities that might exist in other jurisdictions.

The penalty structure in Indonesia escalates dramatically based on the quantity and circumstances of possession. Importantly, outcomes are charge-dependent: police and prosecutors determine whether to charge under possession provisions (Articles 111/112), self-use provisions (Article 127), or trafficking provisions, and this significantly affects sentencing.

Possession-Type Charges (Articles 111/112)

• Imprisonment: 4 to 12 years
• Fines: Rp 800 million to Rp 8 billion (roughly $48,000 to $476,000 USD at ~IDR 16,820/USD, Feb 2026; rates vary)
• Note: Self-use charges (Article 127) may carry different penalty ranges, and rehabilitation may be ordered in some cases, particularly where authorities treat someone as a user/addict

Aggravated Offenses (Over Threshold Quantities)

• Threshold amounts: More than 1 kg plant material, 5+ plants, or 5+ grams non-plant/processed cannabis (depending on the specific offense article)
• Imprisonment: 5 to 20 years, life imprisonment (possible), death penalty (possible)
• Fines: Exceeding Rp 8 billion (over $476,000 USD)

Trafficking/Import/Export/Sale

• Imprisonment: 5 to 20 years, up to life imprisonment
• Death penalty: Possible for certain trafficking offenses involving quantities above statutory thresholds, though it is not automatic or mandatory
• Fines: Up to Rp 10 billion+ (roughly $595,000+ USD at ~IDR 16,820/USD, Feb 2026)

The financial consequences extend far beyond official fines. Legal representation costs, extended detention periods, and the inability to work during prosecution can bankrupt individuals and families. Many defendants face extended detention simply because they cannot afford the massive fines imposed by Indonesian courts.

In June 2025, Australian media reported a case where an Australian traveler was detained in Bali after customs found prescribed medicinal marijuana (flower) in her luggage. She faced potential multi-year sentences despite having legitimate medical documentation from her home country, and was later released without charges, though she incurred significant legal and rehabilitation costs.

Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport represents the highest risk location for cannabis-related arrests, where tourists unknowingly trigger importing charges by bringing prohibited products:

Critical Airport Precautions:

• Never pack cannabis products: This includes CBD oil, edibles, hemp products, or any cannabis-derived items
• Thorough luggage cleaning: Ensure no cannabis residue remains from previous travel to legal jurisdictions
• Prescription medication verification: Confirm all medications are legal in Indonesia before travel
• Declare all substances: When in doubt about medication legality, declare items to customs

General Enforcement Risks in Tourist Areas:

Police conduct drug enforcement operations in popular tourist areas across Bali. According to government travel advisories, travelers should be aware that:

• Undercover operations and informant-driven enforcement are common in nightlife and social areas
• Drug testing may occur during police operations
• Accommodation searches do take place

Travelers should exercise caution in all areas and avoid any contact with controlled substances.

If you encounter Indonesian law enforcement regarding cannabis allegations:

1. Remain calm and cooperative: Aggressive behavior can escalate charges
2. Request embassy notification immediately: Ask police to contact your consulate
3. Do not sign documents without translation: Ensure you understand all statements
4. Arrange legal counsel: Consulates provide lawyer referral lists but don’t pay fees
5. Contact family: Inform loved ones of your situation through consular channels

Herb’s Editorial & How-Tos provides educational content about international drug laws and travel safety, helping you stay informed about legal landscapes before traveling.

Despite growing global medical cannabis acceptance, Indonesia maintains an absolute prohibition with no medical exceptions. This policy affects:

• Foreign prescriptions: Completely invalid under Indonesian law
• CBD products: Not explicitly listed by name in the Group I schedule, but commonly treated as cannabis-derived products; travelers should consider them high-risk and likely illegal
• Hemp-derived products: Because Indonesia lists cannabis including seeds (biji) as Narcotics Group I, travelers should treat hemp-derived foods and oils as legally risky unless confirmed legal by Indonesian authorities
• Medical tourism: No special permits available for medical cannabis patients

The Indonesian government’s position reflects strong societal opposition to cannabis use, regardless of medical intention or THC content.

Indonesia’s Narcotics Group I schedule (Permenkes No. 22/2020) explicitly lists cannabis (all parts, including processed cannabis products, resin, and hashish) and THC. CBD is not explicitly listed by name, but because most CBD oils are derived from cannabis, they are commonly treated as prohibited cannabis products in practice. This means:

• CBD isolate: Not explicitly scheduled, but treated as cannabis-derived and therefore high-risk
• Full-spectrum CBD: Illegal due to cannabis origin and trace THC content
• Hemp seed oil: Legally risky, as cannabis seeds are explicitly included in the Group I listing
• Medical cannabis: No distinction between high-THC and low-THC varieties under Indonesian law

Travelers with legitimate medical cannabis prescriptions from legal jurisdictions like Canada, California, or Colorado should never assume their medication is acceptable in Indonesia. For more context on how cannabis education varies globally, visit Herb’s learning resources.

Indonesia’s current strict approach evolved through several legislative milestones:

• 1976: An early comprehensive narcotics law (UU 9/1976) established strict penalties
• 1997: Anti-narcotics legislation strengthened (UU 22/1997) following regional drug concerns
• 2009: Narcotics Law No. 35 (UU 35/2009) created the current Group I classification system
• 2022: Constitutional Court rejected a petition related to medical cannabis use

This legislative evolution reflects Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining one of Asia’s most stringent anti-drug regimes, influenced by regional cooperation through ASEAN and international frameworks supported by the UNODC.

Several factors contribute to Indonesia’s unwavering drug prohibition:

• Societal opposition: Strong public sentiment against intoxicating substances
• Regional security concerns: Position as a potential transit point for international trafficking
• Political consensus: Broad agreement across political parties on drug policy
• International standing: Desire to demonstrate strong anti-drug enforcement to global partners

Herb’s news section covers legalization news and industry updates globally, providing context for understanding why certain regions maintain specific laws despite international trends.

The cultural disconnect between Western cannabis acceptance and Indonesian prohibition creates dangerous situations for uninformed tourists. While Western societies increasingly view cannabis as a relatively benign substance suitable for medical and recreational use, Indonesian culture maintains strong stigmatization of all drug use.

This cultural gap is exacerbated by:

• Tourism marketing: Bali’s “chill” reputation misleadingly suggests relaxed drug laws
• Social media influence: Western content normalizing cannabis consumption reaching global audiences
• Information asymmetry: Limited awareness of Indonesian laws among international travelers

Paradoxically, tourism both reinforces and challenges Indonesian drug policies. While authorities maintain strict enforcement to protect Bali’s international reputation, the regular arrests of foreigners demonstrate ongoing tensions between tourism economics and drug prohibition.

Local communities often view foreign drug users as disrespectful of Indonesian laws and culture, strengthening support for harsh penalties. This creates a situation where tourists face maximum penalties designed to deter future violations and demonstrate Indonesia’s commitment to drug-free tourism. Understanding cannabis culture differences before traveling is essential for staying safe abroad.

Before traveling to Indonesia or any international destination, consult these official resources:

Government Travel Advisories:

• U.S. State Department: Comprehensive Indonesia drug law warnings
• UK Foreign Office: Detailed Bali-specific drug enforcement information
• Australian DFAT (Smartraveller): Alerts for Indonesian drug risks, including explicit warnings about trace amounts on luggage/clothing

Embassy Resources:

• Pre-travel briefings: Many embassies offer destination-specific legal guidance
• Emergency contact lists: Verified consulate information for crisis situations
• Legal referral services: Pre-vetted attorney networks for detained citizens

Consider professional legal consultation if:

• Planning extended stays in high-risk jurisdictions
• Traveling with prescription medications that might be restricted
• Engaging in business activities that could involve regulatory compliance
• Previous legal issues that might complicate international travel

Stay updated with the latest cannabis news and international legal developments through Herb’s Newsletters, which provide bi-weekly updates on global cannabis trends and policy changes.

As of 2026, no significant movement toward cannabis reform exists in Indonesia. The 2022 Constitutional Court rejection of the petition related to medical cannabis, combined with ongoing severe penalties for drug trafficking, indicates government commitment to maintaining current policies.

However, several factors could influence future discussions:

• Economic pressures: Potential tax revenue from regulated cannabis markets
• Medical advocacy: Growing international evidence of cannabis therapeutic benefits
• Regional trends: Continued cannabis policy shifts in neighboring countries (though even Thailand has tightened its approach since 2022)
• Generational shifts: Changing attitudes among younger Indonesian populations

Comparing Indonesia to Other Asian Nations’ Drug Laws

Indonesia has some of the harshest cannabis penalties in the region, including potential life imprisonment and, for some trafficking offenses, the death penalty. Indonesia has executed drug traffickers in the past, including foreigners, though it has not carried out executions since July 2016 (as of February 2026). This severity contrasts with varied approaches across Asia:

• Thailand: Removed cannabis from the narcotics list in June 2022, but since 2025 has moved toward prescription-only/medical-only sales and tighter regulation; rules remain in flux
• Japan: Maintains prohibition but with generally lower statutory penalties than Indonesia
• Other regional nations: Policies range from severe (Singapore, Malaysia) to more moderate, and are subject to change; travelers should verify current laws before visiting any destination

Herb’s Editorial & How-Tos frequently covers evolving cannabis laws and future outlooks globally, helping you understand the broader context of international drug policy trends.

If arrested for cannabis-related offenses in Bali, immediately contact your country’s consulate:

• Address: Jimbaran Hub, Jl. Karangmas, Jimbaran, Badung, Bali (note: the U.S. Consular Agency relocated; verify current details via the official U.S. State Department page)
• Emergency: +62 21 5083 1000 (select 0 for emergency)
• Email: CABali@state.gov

• Address: Jalan Tantular 32, Renon, Denpasar 80234, Bali
• Phone: +62 361 200 0100
• Website: Australian Consulate-General Bali

• German: +62 361 288 535 (Sanur)
• Dutch: +62 361 761 502 (Kuta)
• Swiss: +62 361 264 149 (Denpasar)
• Indian: +62 361 259 500 (Renon)

Important: Consulates can visit detained citizens, provide lawyer referrals, and notify family members, but cannot secure release or pay legal expenses.

Bali’s tropical beauty masks one of the world’s most dangerous legal environments for cannabis users. Indonesia’s strict enforcement, backed by multi-year prison terms for possession charges and the possibility of life imprisonment or the death penalty for trafficking offenses, offers no exceptions for medical use, CBD products, or tourist ignorance. The regular arrests of foreigners demonstrate that enforcement applies equally to all visitors, regardless of intent or home country laws.

Before traveling to Indonesia, thoroughly research drug laws, clean all luggage of cannabis residue, and never assume medical prescriptions or CBD products are acceptable. If facing charges, immediately contact your embassy and prepare for a lengthy legal process with severe potential consequences. Stay informed about global cannabis policies through Herb’s comprehensive strain guides and educational content to make responsible travel decisions.