What is the fine for cannabis in Switzerland?
For possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis for personal use, Switzerland issues a fixed fine of 100 CHF — with no criminal record. Above 10 grams or in case of dealing, criminal prosecution follows with higher fines and possibly imprisonment.
Key facts
- Fixed fine: 100 CHF for up to 10 g
- No criminal record entry
- Above 10 g or dealing: criminal proceedings
- Minors: always juvenile proceedings
- Legal basis: BetmG Art. 19a & 28b
Detailed answer
Since 1 October 2013 Switzerland applies a fixed-fine procedure for small cannabis quantities (Art. 28b BetmG). An adult carrying up to 10 g for personal use pays 100 CHF on the spot. No entry in the criminal record, no formal charge. Important exceptions: - Under 18: juvenile criminal proceedings, no fixed fine. - Over 10 g or multiple small quantities: regular criminal proceedings. - Dealing, cultivation, passing to third parties: BetmG offence with fines and up to 3 years imprisonment. - Driving under the influence: separate licence withdrawal and fine under the Road Traffic Act. Some cantons (Neuchâtel, Geneva at times) skip the fine in practice — the national law remains unchanged.