Where Is Vaping Illegal? – Vaping and Traveling

North America

United States

The federal government does not have any laws that prohibit the possession of e-cigarettes/vapes. That being said, the U.S. FDA classifies e-cigarettes and all related products as tobacco products. The federal government does regulate the sale, advertising, promotion, distribution, manufacturing, importation, packaging, and labelling of e-cigarette products.

If you’re interested in a full list of vaping bans throughout the United State, make sure you check out our blog that goes over all vaping bans in the Unisted States.

“…we have every reason to believe that the hazard posed by e-cigarettes would be much lower than one percent…of the hazard posed by regular cigarettes.” – Dr J Nitzkin: American Association of Public Health Physicians

*San Francisco, California has imposed a citywide flavour ban that also includes menthol flavours. If you are travelling to San Francisco, we recommend bringing enough e-liquid to last your entire trip.

*Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Washington have currently enacted vaping bans that restrict the flavours available to vapers.

Antigua and Barbuda

While there is no restriction on the possession of an e-cigarette or related products, they cannot enter the country in any way. This includes through your luggage or on your person, as well as via an online purchase (all of these methods are considered importation).

Bahamas

There are currently no regulations or restrictions on the possession or sale of e-cigarettes in the country. There are currently no vape retail stores in the Bahamas, so ensure that you have everything you need during your stay.

Barbados

The possession and sale of e-cigarettes in Barbados is currently legal, but the use of them in public places is banned.

Belize

E-cigarettes are currently legal in Belize, however, there are heavy regulations surrounding e-cigarette sales and vaping in public.

Canada

The possession of e-cigarettes is legal across Canada and vape stores can be found across the country in various provinces. Health Canada does classify e-cigarettes as new drugs under the Food and Drug Regulations, meaning there are restrictions on their sale, advertisement, promotion, sponsorship, importation, and manufacturing.

*P.E.I has raised the age of vaping and smoking to 21 and is considering a flavour ban.

*British Columbia has now enacted strict e-cigarette restrictions, which include a ban on certain flavours, a hike in sales tax, advertising laws, plain packaging, and sales restriction to dedicated vape shops. These restrictions also apply to all cannabis vaporizers.

*Nova Scotia has enacted a flavour ban which will take effect on April 1, 2020.

Costa Rica

E-cigarettes are classified as tobacco products in Costa Rica and are subject to the laws that prohibit smoking in public places. That being said, the possession of an e-cigarette is completely legal as is the sale and distribution of such products.

Cuba

There are currently no regulations surrounding e-cigarettes in Cuba, but there have been reports of customs confiscating e-cigarettes during bag searches.

Dominican Republic

There are currently no restrictions or regulations surrounding e-cigarettes in the Dominican Republic. That being said, there have been reports that e-cigarettes are being confiscated from luggage without any explanation when entering and leaving the country.

Honduras

The possession and sale of e-cigarettes is allowed, but there is a ban on their use in all workplaces, indoor public places, and all public transportation and terminals. There are also some restrictions on vaping in outdoor places, including stadiums and any public or private space fewer than two meters from where people gather or pass through.

Jamaica

The use of e-cigarettes is prohibited in all public places and on public transportation in Jamaica. The sale, distribution, importation, and manufacturing of e-cigarettes is also highly restricted.

Mexico

While there is no ban on the use of e-cigarettes in Mexico, there are very strict restrictions regarding the sale, trade, distribution, importation, production, and promotion of any vape products. This restriction on importation can apply to your luggage so there is a chance that your items may be confiscated, but there have only been a few reported incidents of this occurring.

Nicaragua

The national tobacco control laws in Nicaragua prohibit the sale, importation, and manufacturing of objects imitating tobacco products, i.e. e-cigarettes. This importation ban includes e-cigarettes for personal use, making it illegal to bring any e-cigarettes into the country.

Panama

It is currently illegal to bring any e-cigarettes into Panama, both with and without nicotine. This ban comes from a decree that restricts the sale, advertising, sponsorship, distribution, and importation of e-cigarettes in the country.

South America

Argentina

The ruling government in Argentina has banned the sale, advertisement, distribution, and importation of all e-cigarettes and related devices. You can still bring your device into the country, but the use of them in enclosed public spaces/transport is prohibited.

Brazil

There are various prohibitions on e-cigarettes in Brazil that focus on the sale, advertisement, distribution, and importation of e-cigarettes. They are also classified as tobacco products, meaning they are subject to the same prohibitions as smoking in public places. 

Columbia

E-cigarettes are classified as tobacco imitations, effectively banning the sale, manufacturing, and marketing of such devices. There are also bans on the use of e-cigarettes in enclosed spaces and on public transportation.

Ecuador

E-cigarettes in Ecuador are classified as Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems and follow the same prohibitions as tobacco use in terms of where their use is permitted.

Guyana

While there are no laws against the use of e-cigarettes in Guyana, the country does prohibit the possession of e-cigarettes in checked luggage when arriving or departing the country. Furthermore, the country does warn against having them in carry-on luggage, following recommendations by the FAA in the U.S.

Suriname

The Tobacco Law in Suriname prohibits the importation, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes.

Uruguay

The sale, importation, registration, and promotion of e-cigarettes is banned in all of Uruguay.

Venezuela

In Venezuela, e-cigarettes can be used, but not in enclosed public spaces or in public transportation.

Europe

Austria

While e-cigarettes are legal in Austria, there are several restrictions that prohibit where they can be used in public places.

Belgium

The use of e-cigarettes is legal, however, the use of them in enclosed public places is prohibited.

Croatia

E-cigarettes are currently legal in Croatia, but their use in public places is prohibited.

Cyprus

The use of e-cigarettes is generally legal in Cyprus, however, there are restrictions in regards to bottle/tank capacity, nicotine strengths, packaging requirements, and use in public areas. Nicotine containing e-liquid must be less than or equal to 20mg/mL and may not exceed 10mL. Furthermore, no single-use e-cigarettes or e-cigarette tanks may exceed 2mL.

Czech Republic

E-cigarette use is legal in the Czech Republic, but their use in certain public places is banned. These public places include hospitals, schools, shopping centers, and public transport. The Czech Republic also abides by the EU TPD, meaning all e-liquid must be less or equal to 20mg/mL and all bottles may not exceed 10mL. Additionally, all e-cigarette tanks must not exceed 2mL.

Denmark

E-cigarettes are currently legal in Denmark, but the use of them in public places is prohibited. These places include schools, childcare facilities, and on public transportation. Denmark also abides by the EU TPD.

Estonia

E-cigarettes are legal in Estonia and the country abides by the EU TPD. Furthermore, the use of e-cigarettes is prohibited in certain public places; such as on the premises of children’s social welfare institutions, as well as pre-school, basic institutions, basic schools, vocational institutions, hobby schools, open youth centers or permanent youth camps and youth project camps and their designated territories.

England

The U.K. has some of the best and most relaxed vaping laws in the world and can be used freely in both indoor and outdoor public spaces. That being said, the use of e-cigarettes is still prohibited in government spaces such as schools, hospitals, and airports. England also abides by the EU TPD.

Finland

E-cigarettes are currently legal in Finland but are prohibited where smoking is not allowed, including vehicles where minors under 15 are present. Finland does abide by the EU TPD and has placed further limitations on travellers coming to Finland. People coming into Finland may only bring 10mL of nicotine-containing e-liquid when the liquid contains no more than 20mg/mL.

France

The use of e-cigarettes is completely legal in France and is classified as a consumer product. The use of e-cigarettes is permitted in most outdoor places, except in all indoor places (government buildings, offices, public transportation, universities, museums, restaurants, cafes, night clubs, etc), vape shops are also submitted to the same regulations. France also abides by the EU TPD.

Germany

E-cigarettes are legal in Germany and the country abides by the EU TPD. As with smoking, vapers should not use their devices in any public places or locations that also ban smoking.

Hungary

While e-cigarettes are legal in Hungary, the country still has some of the strictest regulations and substantial fines.

In Hungary:

• E-cigarette products can only be purchased at licensed tobacco stores.
• All flavoured e-liquids are banned nationwide.
• Vaping is prohibited in all public places (including tobacco stores), except where smoking is allowed. Failing to comply will result in a USD$980 fine.
• Selling or trading any e-cigarette products (even on a casual basis) without a license is strictly prohibited. Breaking this law will result in a USD$196,000 fine.

Italy

While e-cigarettes are legal in Italy, the use of them in government buildings, hospitals, airports, and educational facilities is prohibited. Italy also abides by the EU TPD, regarding e-liquid nicotine amounts, bottle size, and tank size.

“There is no doubt that ecigs are much safer than conventional cigarettes…” – Professor Polosa: University of Catania

Latvia

E-cigarettes are legal in Latvia but cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 18. E-cigarettes may only be used in areas that also allow smoking.

Lithuania

E-cigarettes are legal in Lithuania but they cannot be used where smoking is banned.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg does not have any bans on e-cigarettes, except for their prohibition when smoking is also banned.

Norway

E-cigarettes are currently legal in Norway, thanks to the implementation of the EU TPD. Travellers should be aware of this as there is still confusion with certain existing Norwegian laws.

Poland

E-cigarettes are legal in Poland but are covered under the Polish Anti-Tobacco Act (2016). This makes the use of e-cigarettes illegal in certain public spaces and on public transportation. Poland also abides by the EU TPD.

Portugal

E-cigarettes are legal in Portugal but are regulated by Law no. 37/2007 of 14th August. This adds certain restrictions to where e-cigarettes can be used, primarily in public places and anywhere smoking is also banned.

Romania

E-cigarettes are legal in Romania and the strict ban on vaping in public places does not apply. However, the use of e-cigarettes is still banned on public transportation.

San Marino

E-cigarettes in San Marino are completely legal, but they cannot be used where smoking is also prohibited.

Slovakia

E-cigarettes are legal in Slovakia but can only be used where smoking is also allowed. That being said, there is only a partial ban on smoking in public places, so be sure to check with your venue before you begin vaping.

Slovenia

E-cigarettes are legal in Slovenia, however, they cannot be used in public spaces, public transportation, and private vehicles where minors under 18 are present

Spain

E-cigarettes can be used and sold in Spain, the country does have legislation pertaining to the manufacturing, advertising, and sale of e-cigarette products in Spain. The country has also instituted a ban on smoking/vaping in all indoor places, including bars and restaurants.

Switzerland

The sale and commercial importation of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes products is prohibited in Switzerland. That being said, non-nicotine products are legal in the country.

“Our main goal should to minimize the use of combustible products, and vapourizers should be seen as tools to eliminate cigarettes” – Professor Jean-François Etter: University of Geneva

Asia

Armenia

E-cigarettes are currently legal in Armenia but restrictions have been proposed by the government.

Bahrain

Bahrain does prohibit the importation, distribution, and selling of e-cigarettes. This law does not seem to cover the purchase or possession of e-cigarettes, but we do advise that you refrain from bringing e-cigarettes into the country to avoid any confusion.

Bhutan

Bhutan has banned the sale of all tobacco and tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. It is still legal to bring e-cigarettes into the country for personal use, but these products will be subject to duties and must bear proof of taxation, display proper health warnings, and cannot promote tobacco by means that are false.

Brunei

The legality of e-cigarettes in Brunei is fairly confusing and it is best to not bring any vaping products to the country. In short, possession of an e-cigarette is legal in the country, as is their use in areas where smoking is allowed. That being said, it is illegal to purchase an e-cigarette or bring one into the country.

Cambodia

E-cigarettes are completely banned in the country and Cambodia’s National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD) has ordered authorities to cease the import, use, and sale of e-cigarettes across Cambodia. Furthermore, any e-cigarettes found by authorities will be confiscated upon discovery.

Hong Kong

E-cigarettes containing nicotine are classified as a Type 1 poison under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance and the sale and possession of these products is prohibited. Violation of this regulation can result in a fine of up to USD$12,800 and a prison term of two years. That being said, all nicotine-free e-cigarette products are legal in Hong Kong.

India

India has banned the importation, sale, production, and distribution of e-cigarettes across the country. Offenders can be either fined or jailed for up to three years for failing to abide by this law.

Indonesia

The import, sale, distribution, and possession of e-cigarettes are completely banned in Indonesia. This ban extends onto all e-cigarette components.

Japan

Although e-cigarettes are legal in Japan, the country does classify them as medicinal products and regulates them by Japanese pharmaceutical affairs laws. This means vapers will not be able to purchase any nicotine e-liquid in a retail vape store in Japan.

Jordan

The current laws that affect e-cigarettes can be somewhat confusing in Jordan. Officially, the sale, advertising, manufacturing, importation, and use of e-cigarettes (including nicotine-free options) is banned. That being said, these laws may only apply to large quantities that may be offered for resale and may not affect the amounts carried by regular vapers for personal use.

Lebanon

The Health Ministry of Lebanon has prohibited the importation and sale of all e-cigarette products in the country. The ban does not cover the possession of e-cigarettes, but you may have a hard time finding any e-liquids or various products in the country.

Malaysia

The e-cigarette laws in Malaysia can be somewhat confusing and often teeter on the line between legal and illegal. Currently, the Malaysian states of Penang, Kedah, Johor, Kelantan and Terengganu have banned e-cigarettes entirely. In other parts of Malaysia vaping is allowed, however, devices and e-liquids are either legally restricted or will be restricted in the future.

Nepal

Nepal’s Tobacco Product Control and Regulatory Directive of 2014 prohibits the sale (including single units), use, advertising, promotion, sponsorship, importation, manufacturing, and distribution of all e-cigarette products.

Oman

Possession of e-cigarettes is not prohibited in Oman, however, the sale and marketing of e-cigarette products are banned.

Palestine

While there have been various documents drafted and proposed for the prohibition of e-cigarettes, there does not seem to be any current ban in the country.

Philippines

President Rodrigo Duterte has issued a ban on the importation and use of e-cigarettes in public places in the Philippines. Those in defiance of this law may be subject to arrest under President Duterte’s decree.

Qatar

According to a Ministry Order from 2014, the sale, distribution, importation, possession, and use of e-cigarettes is banned.

Saudi Arabia

In accordance with a decision by the Health Ministers of Gulf Countries, the sale and marketing of e-cigarettes are banned in Saudi Arabia. This ban does not cover the possession or importation of e-cigarettes, but you should use some caution when bringing e-cigarettes into the country as they may be confiscated by customs officials.

Singapore

The sale, importation, distribution, purchase, possession, and use of e-cigarettes is banned in Singapore. People caught in possession of an e-cigarette can be subject to a fine of USD$1,525.

South Korea

E-cigarettes are currently legal in South Korea, but the use of them is banned in public places and public transportation.

Sri Lanka

While it is legal to use and possess e-cigarettes in Sri Lanka, the importation, sale, and manufacturing of e-cigarettes is illegal. Travellers should not bring any devices with them, as this applies as importation.

Thailand

While it is legal to use and possess e-cigarettes in Thailand, it is illegal to purchase and import them. Because of this, you may still get into some trouble if e-cigarettes are found in your possession by the authorities.

Turkey

E-cigarettes are completely legal in Turkey and are classified as derivative products. They are banned from being used in any areas that are not designated smoking zones.

Turkmenistan

The sale, advertising, promotion, distribution, manufacturing, importation, use, and possession of e-cigarettes is prohibited in Turkmenistan.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

In accordance with a decision by the Health Ministers of Gulf Countries, the sale and marketing of e-cigarettes are banned in the UAE. The Ministry of Health has also banned the use and possession of e-cigarettes in the country.

Oceania

Australia

Australian federal law classifies nicotine as a restricted poison — unless it is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). This approval generally falls on traditional tobacco products or for approved therapeutic purposes. Therefore, nicotine e-liquid is not available in Australia. Furthermore, while the importation of e-cigarettes by travellers is legal, the sale and marketing of these products are prohibited.

Fiji

All e-cigarettes are governed by a Tobacco Control Decree in Fiji and cannot be sold to minors (under 18) or used in spaces that do not allow smoking.

New Zealand

Nicotine-containing e-liquids are regulated as tobacco products in New Zealand by the Smoke-free Environments Act. Sale to anyone under the age of 18 is illegal and vaping is prohibited in some areas designated by signs. Generally, if an area is declared "smoke-free" vaping is also prohibited. Vaping legislation is currently pending as of December 2019 which may impact some elements of vaping in New Zealand. 

FAQs

What are the rules and regulations for taking a vape on a plane?

The rules and regulations for taking a vape on a plane vary depending on the airline, but generally, it is allowed in carry-on baggage, while it is prohibited in checked baggage, and it is important to comply with any restrictions on the use of e-cigarettes during the flight.

Where is vaping illegal?

Vaping is illegal in countries such as Bahrain, Bhutan, Brazil, Cambodia, India, Singapore, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates, among others. The legality of vaping varies from country to country, so it's important to research and understand the regulations of the specific destination before vaping.