Kratom Laws Around the World

For the jet-setting lifestyle, taking kratom with you may be the best way to ensure access abroad. But the last thing you want is for your kratom habit to land you in legal hot water. Knowing kratom laws for the countries you visit is the only way to keep yourself from running afoul of the law. Failure to know the regulations during your travels can lead to ruined vacations, fines, and potentially jail time, so know before you go. In lieu of a kratom legality map we’ll offer you a quick run down of kratom laws around the globe.

Kratom Legality: Know the Terms

An evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, Kratom is known by several different names. While Kratom is easily the most popular, it has traditionally been known as Ketum throughout many of its native areas. In addition, it may be referred to by its scientific name, Mitragyna speciosa. When checking regulations, it may be necessary to look for each of these names to ensure you’re getting complete and accurate information.

Things To Consider

When researching kratom laws and regulations, don’t forget to consider all the relevant jurisdictions. Kratom’s legality could be affected by federal, state, provincial, county, territory, and city ordinances. In addition, transportation providers and their governing authorities could have rules or regulations pertaining to Kratom use or transportation. Even if you’re passing through a jurisdiction and not stopping, should Kratom be discovered, you could face arrest and prosecution if it’s illegal there.

Select Countries

Below are some of the most popular travel destinations and how they regulate Kratom. Please be advised that this is not an exhaustive list, nor is it meant to constitute legal advice. Do your own research and contact a legal professional if you have any questions or need legal aid.

United States

Even if you live in the United States, it’s understandable that you might require a kratom legality map and a cheat sheet to current Kratom laws before planning domestic travel. The FDA has taken an aggressive stance toward Kratom, but has not outlawed kratom at the federal level

But some states have outlawed kratom within their borders, while others have sought to protect access with the Kratom Consumers Protection Act drafted by the American Kratom Association. 

Currently, 6 states ban or regulate Kratom as a controlled substance (effectively banning it). These states are Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin. Several other states, especially Tennessee, have more complicated kratom policies. Before planning a domestic trip, be sure to review our state-by-state breakdown of 2020 kratom legality.

Australia

The land down under has scheduled Kratom, placing it in the same class as dangerous narcotics like heroin. In addition, they are applying pressure on their neighbors to do the same. This makes it illegal to buy, sell, or possess Kratom in Australia. Do not bring kratom with you on a trip to the Australian Outback!

Israel

While Israel has not banned Kratom, it has made the active compounds, Mitragynine and Hydroxymitragynine, illegal. As with most countries in the region, penalties can be incredibly stiff, so leave your kratom powder at home.

Thailand, Burma, and Malaysia

Unfortunately, 2019 Kratom laws in the home countries of several popular strains forbid the use or possession of Kratom. It is listed as a controlled substance, and bringing it with you could see you facing charges of drug smuggling. However, kratom possession (as opposed to importation) in Thailand is considered to be of the lowest level of offense, and in Malaysia, simple possession for personal use is not considered a major infraction. That being said, it is illegal and you have been warned.

South Korea

Kratom is illegal in South Korea and is heavily policed. Penalties are harsh and can result in imprisonment for even small amounts. You absolutely should not travel to South Korea while in possession of kratom!

Europe

Much of Europe regulates Kratom heavily, considering it a controlled substance. In several nations, such as Denmark, active campaigns are fighting to lift the heavy hand of the government. Currently, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Russia, Sweden, Turkey, Ireland, Italy, Germany, and the UK either outright ban Kratom, list it at a schedule that effectively bans Kratom, or list it as a substance that effectively leaves it banned. In Denmark and Finland, Kratom is controlled, but with a valid prescription, it can be bought and used legally. Be sure to check the kratom laws of the individual European countries you choose to visit.

Canada

Legality in Canada is a gray area, mimicking its status in the US. While neither banned nor listed as a controlled substance at the national level, some cities and provinces may have their own kratom laws regarding possession or use. The sale of Kratom for consumption, as in the US, is illegal, however, the availability of Kratom for research purposes is fairly open unless otherwise prohibited at another level.

Check, Re-check, and Check Again

As kratom laws are in a state of seemingly constant change, you’ll want to do more than glance at statutes a few months before your vacation.

Instead, You’ll want to check while planning, packing, and right before you leave to ensure you have the best and most up-to-date information possible. Ignorance is not a defense, and a little preparation beforehand can ensure your vacation isn’t derailed by prison time.

Stay updated and stay informed. When it comes to international travel, you don’t want your kratom landing you in hot water. For the latest in Kratom news, legislative actions, and trends, keep an eye on the Kratom Spot Blog.