Germany Cannabis License: A 2025 Guide for Business Owners

Introduction: Understanding Cannabis Licensing in Germany

Germany’s cannabis regulatory framework continues to evolve, aiming to balance public health protections, legal oversight, and emerging market structures. If you’re looking to obtain a Germany cannabis license, it’s essential to understand both the medical and recreational pathways now governed under recent reforms. The Cannabis Act (Cannabisgesetz, CanG), which took effect on April 1, 2024, legalized the personal possession and home cultivation of cannabis for adults. Concurrently, the Medicinal Cannabis Act (MedCanG) restructured the licensing process for medical cannabis, shifting oversight away from narcotics regulations. This guide outlines Germany’s current licensing pathways, distinguishing between medical and recreational use, and providing an overview of requirements for prospective licensees.

Current Legal Status of Cannabis in Germany (2025)

Medical Cannabis has been legal since 2017. It is treated as a prescription medicine and is dispensed through pharmacies under strict regulations. Patients with serious medical conditions can receive cannabis-based treatments if prescribed by a physician. Medical cannabis is now regulated under the Medicinal Cannabis Law (MedCanG), replacing certain provisions of the German Narcotics Act (BtMG).

Recreational cannabis was partially legalized through the Cannabis Act (CanG) in April 2024, allowing adults aged 18 and over to possess up to 25 grams and grow up to three cannabis plants for personal use. Commercial sales remain prohibited. Non-profit Cannabis Social Clubs may cultivate and distribute cannabis among registered members under strict regulation. Pilot programs for regulated retail sales are being planned under the second pillar (Säule 2) of the Cannabis Act. These will only occur in select municipalities that apply for and receive federal approval. Cities such as Frankfurt and Hanover have expressed interest, but approvals are pending.

Cannabis License Types Available in Germany

Germany offers various license types for cannabis-related activities:

Cultivation License (Medical)

To cultivate medical cannabis, a license from BfArM is required. Since 2024, applications are no longer limited to tender processes. Applicants must demonstrate:

• Qualified responsible personnel under MedCanG
• Compliance with EU-GACP and EU-GMP standards
• Secure and hygienic facilities

Recreational cultivation is restricted to individuals and licensed Cannabis Social Clubs.

Distribution License (Medical)

Distributors must obtain:

• A MedCanG cannabis handling license from BfArM
• A pharmaceutical wholesale permit under the Medicinal Products Act (AMG)

Distribution of recreational cannabis remains illegal outside of licensed Social Clubs and pilot program outlets.

Import/Export License (Medical)

Importers and exporters must:

• Hold a MedCanG license
• Apply for shipment-specific permits from BfArM
• Ensure all cannabis is sourced from state-supervised programs and meets EU-GMP standards

Retail License (Medical Only)

Medical cannabis is dispensed exclusively through licensed pharmacies. Recreational cannabis is not available through commercial retail channels. Pilot programs and Social Clubs are the only legal sources for adult-use cannabis.

Who Can Apply for a Cannabis License?

Applicants must be legal entities or individuals established in Germany or within the European Union. Each application must designate qualified responsible persons with demonstrable expertise in cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, or distribution, as outlined in Section 7(3) of the Medicinal Cannabis Act (MedCanG). Key personnel are required to provide a certificate of good conduct to establish legal and professional reliability.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Cannabis License in Germany

The application process involves several key steps:

1. Document Preparation – Gather all legal, financial, and personnel documentation.
2. Facility Setup – Ensure compliance with GMP/GACP and security requirements.
3. Application Submission – Apply to BfArM with complete documentation.
4. Review Period – BfArM may take several months to review and request clarifications.
5. Post-Licensing Compliance – Maintain records, submit reports, and comply with inspections.

Social Cannabis Clubs: Legal Registration and Limitations

Cannabis Social Clubs are registered, non-commercial associations authorized to cultivate cannabis and distribute it to members for personal use. These clubs must obtain a permit from local authorities and comply with federal and state regulations, including limits on membership (maximum 500 adults), monthly distribution amounts (up to 50g per member), and cultivation controls. Clubs must operate strictly on a not-for-profit basis and are prohibited from advertising or selling to the public.

Importing and Exporting Cannabis: Licensing for Cross-Border Trade

Importing medical cannabis into Germany requires a permit, along with an import permit for each shipment. Exporting cannabis is also regulated, with specific licensing requirements to ensure compliance with both national and international laws. All cannabis products must adhere to quality standards, including Good Agricultural and Collection Practice (GACP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).

Compliance Expectations for License Holders

License holders must maintain comprehensive documentation and adhere to strict compliance standards:

• Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate records of all cannabis-related activities.
• Seed-to-Sale Tracking: Implement systems to track cannabis products throughout the supply chain.
• Inspections: Cooperate with regulatory inspections and audits.
• Quality Standards: Comply with GACP and GMP guidelines to ensure product safety and quality.

Financial, Tax, and Insurance Considerations for Licensed Operators

Licensed cannabis operators must navigate various financial and regulatory considerations:

• Tax Obligations: Understand and comply with tax requirements specific to the cannabis industry.
• Banking Services: Secure banking services that accommodate the unique needs of cannabis businesses.
• Insurance: Obtain appropriate insurance coverage to mitigate operational risks.
• Financial Documentation: Provide necessary financial documentation during the licensing process to prove stability and compliance.

Future Outlook for Licensing in Germany

While commercial retail sales of recreational cannabis are currently prohibited, future reforms may create opportunities for licensed commercial sales. The German government is exploring pilot projects to assess the feasibility of regulated cannabis sales. Businesses should stay informed about legislative developments to capitalize on potential market opportunities.

Conclusion: Getting Licensed and Staying Compliant

Securing a cannabis license in Germany requires careful planning, adherence to legal requirements, and ongoing compliance. Applicants should consult with legal and industry experts to navigate the licensing process effectively. For more information and guidance, visit the official BfArM website or consult with specialized cannabis consultants.

Need guidance on your cannabis license application or compliance strategy? Connect with Cannaspire to get started.