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Updated on December 28, 2018. Medical content reviewed by Dr. Joseph Rosado, MD, M.B.A, Chief Medical Officer
With the launch of Uruguay’s recreational and medical marijuana program in 2017, patients across the country now have access to a medicine that can alleviate painful, chronic symptoms. If you or a loved one are interested in joining the program, it’s helpful to know the application process in advance.
Benefits of a Medical Marijuana Card in Uruguay
While possessing recreational or medical weed has never been a criminal offense in Uruguay, it’s a smart decision to join Uruguay’s program, which is managed by the Institution of Regulation and Control of Cannabis (IRCCA), as it provides several benefits:
- Ability to purchase medical weed at a pharmacy
- Permission to cultivate six marijuana plants and produce as much as 480 grams of medical pot each year
- Opportunity to join a local growers’ club for growing and using medical cannabis
One of the most significant benefits is that you’re ensuring your cultivation and use of medical weed is legal.
How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Uruguay
Uruguay has designed a straightforward process for applying with the IRCCA, which involves the following steps:
- Visit your local post office.
- Provide your Uruguayan identity card, proof of residence and a scan of your fingerprints.
- Submit your application.
If you’re planning to grow marijuana plants for personal use, you’ll also need to register with the Register of Seed and Cultivars, which is a part of the National Institute of Seeds (INASE).
For growers’ clubs, your application process will be a bit different. You need at least 15 to 45 members, as well as the following information:
- Proof of address for your club’s location
- Documentation listing you as the owner or lessee of your club’s property
- Cultivation plan that documents your club’s safety features and technical aspects
- Cannabis distribution plan for members
- Identity and contact information of your Technical Manager
- Notarized testimony of your club’s founders agreeing to the General Directorate of Registries statutes
- Copy of resolution that approves the statutes set by the General Directorate of Registries
After review, the IRCCA will inspect your club’s location and approve or reject your application.
How to Recertify a Medical Marijuana Card in Uruguay
While some countries require patients to renew their medical marijuana card or registration, Uruguay does not. If your address or name changes, you should notify the IRCCA to update your information.
On the contrary, you will need to re-register if you’re growing cannabis plants or overseeing a growers’ club. Club licenses are valid for three years — you may renew your status after your license expires, or three months beforehand.
Certification of Medical Marijuana Doctors in Uruguay
The government does not require doctors to become certified specifically to prescribe medical marijuana. Instead, all physicians may discuss weed as a treatment option with their patients. If you or a loved one are considering medical pot, however, make sure your doctor is educated about it.
Your physician should be able to talk with you about the benefits and side-effects of medical marijuana, as well as how it may help alleviate your condition’s symptoms. If you feel your doctor isn’t up-to-date on cannabis as a medicine, consider finding one who is to ensure you’re receiving the best care.
Contact a Medical Marijuana Official in Uruguay Today
At MarijuanaDoctors.com, we’re a go-to resource for information on medical marijuana in Uruguay and beyond. Browse our site for more information on various countries’ evolving medical cannabis programs.
If you’re interested in learning more about Uruguay’s medical marijuana program or the renewal process for clubs, contact the IRCCA.
