Legal status in Ghana
Per-substance legal status for Ghana, from sourced statutes where available. Legal information, not legal advice; drug laws change, so confirm with the destination’s embassy or drug authority before you travel.
Confirmed legal status
Cannabis / THC
- Legal status
- Personal use DEPENALIZED but still illegal under Act 1019 (2020) — fine (~GHS 2,400–6,000), non-payment ~15 months; NOT decriminalized; NO thresholds; [struck] Sec 43 low-THC cultivation struck by Supreme Court May 2023
- Consequences if caught
- Cannabis is controlled under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019). Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision allowing licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck — confirm the current status; do NOT rely on it as settled law.
- If prescribed / medical
- [struck] Any medical or industrial low-THC cannabis route ran through Sec 43, which the Supreme Court struck in May 2023 on procedural grounds — confirm current status before relying on it.
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Cocaine
- Legal status
- Personal use DEPENALIZED but still illegal under Act 1019 (2020) — fine of 200–500 penalty units (~GHS 2,400–6,000), non-payment ~15 months; NOT decriminalized; NO quantity thresholds defined
- Consequences if caught
- Cocaine is controlled under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019). Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Heroin
- Legal status
- Personal use DEPENALIZED but still illegal under Act 1019 (2020) — fine of 200–500 penalty units (~GHS 2,400–6,000), non-payment ~15 months; NOT decriminalized; NO quantity thresholds defined
- Consequences if caught
- Heroin is controlled under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019). Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
MDMA
- Legal status
- Personal use DEPENALIZED but still illegal under Act 1019 (2020) — fine of 200–500 penalty units (~GHS 2,400–6,000), non-payment ~15 months; NOT decriminalized; NO quantity thresholds defined
- Consequences if caught
- MDMA is controlled under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019). Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Methamphetamine
- Legal status
- Personal use DEPENALIZED but still illegal under Act 1019 (2020) — fine of 200–500 penalty units (~GHS 2,400–6,000), non-payment ~15 months; NOT decriminalized; NO quantity thresholds defined
- Consequences if caught
- Methamphetamine is controlled under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019). Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- Not a prescribed traveller medicine in this form.
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Not individually verified
For these 80 substances the governing national drug law is cited, but we have not verified that the substance specifically is scheduled under it. Treat them as unanswered, not as legal. Confirm with Ghana’s drug authority or your embassy.
1P-LSD
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
2-FDCK
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
25I-NBOMe
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
2C-B
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
2C-E
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
2C-I
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
2C-T-7
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
3-MMC
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
4-AcO-DMT
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
4-HO-MET
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
5-MeO-DMT (Bufo / Toad)
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
6-APB
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Adderall
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Alcohol
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Amanita muscaria
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Amphetamine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Amyl Nitrite
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Ayahuasca
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Barbiturates
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Benzodiazepines
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Buprenorphine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Caffeine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Cathinone
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
CBD
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Clonazepam
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Codeine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Crack Cocaine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Delta-8-THC
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Diazepam
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
DMT
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
DOM
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
DXM
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Ephedrine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Etizolam
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Fentanyl
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Gabapentin
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
GBL
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
GHB
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
HHC
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Hydrocodone
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Ketamine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Khat
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Kratom
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Lorazepam
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
LSA (Morning Glory)
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
LSD
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
MDA
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
MDPV
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Memantine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Mephedrone (4-MMC)
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Mescaline
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Methadone
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Methaqualone (Quaaludes)
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Methylone
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Methylphenidate
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Mitragynine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Modafinil
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Morphine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
MXE
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Nicotine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Nitrous Oxide
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Oxycodone
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
PCP
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Peyote
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Phenibut
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Pink Cocaine / Tusi
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Poppers
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Pregabalin
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Psilocybin
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Quetiapine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Salvia divinorum
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Scopolamine (Devil's Breath)
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2 / Spice)
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
THC-P
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Tobacco
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Tramadol
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Xanax (Alprazolam)
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 13, 2026
Xylazine
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated June 26, 2026
Zolpidem
- Legal status
- Not confirmed — status not individually verified; confirm with Ghana's authorities (Act 1019 of 2020) / your embassy
- Consequences if caught
- This specific substance was not named in the cited Ghanaian sources (Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/45 and Second Schedule) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Under Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) is DEPENALIZED, not decriminalized: it draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced prison with a fine, but personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule).
- If prescribed / medical
- If a controlled medicine, carry the prescription and confirm with your embassy (see documentation).
- Documentation
- Ghana DEPENALIZED (not decriminalized) personal drug use: under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), possession for personal use (Secs 37/41/45) draws a FINE of 200–500 penalty units (about GHS 2,400–6,000), with non-payment converting to roughly 15 months' imprisonment. This replaced the old prison terms of PNDCL 236 (1990) with a fine, but recreational and personal use REMAINS ILLEGAL — it is depenalization, NOT decriminalization or legalization — and the Act defines NO personal-use quantity thresholds. Trafficking is severe (fines plus imprisonment under the Second Schedule). [struck] Sec 43, a special provision for licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis (0.3% THC or less) for industrial, medical and scientific use only (NOT recreational), was ruled unconstitutional by Ghana's Supreme Court in May 2023 (5–4) on procedural grounds and was struck; Parliament action to re-pass followed — confirm the current status, do NOT rely on Sec 43 as settled law. Ghana has NO death penalty for drugs. Carry any controlled medicine with its prescription and confirm requirements with your embassy before travel.
Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), Secs 37/41/43/45 + Second Schedule · ir.parliament.gh · ghalii.org · idpc.net · Updated July 14, 2026
Drug laws and enforcement change and vary by country. This is not legal advice. Always confirm with the destination’s embassy or official drug authority before traveling; penalties can be severe, including imprisonment.
Before you travel
Verify current rules with the destination country’s official drug authority and your own country’s embassy before traveling. Find the destination’s U.S. embassy & official country guidance →
Non-U.S. travelers: check your own government’s travel advisory and embassy.
If you’re detained or arrested abroad
Contact your own country’s embassy or consulate in the destination immediately — not the destination’s authorities. U.S. citizens: contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate and the U.S. State Department at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad). If a U.S. citizen is arrested or detained abroad →
