Vaping Abroad: The Facts
The rules for vaping abroad can be very different from the UK. Certain countries have restrictions in place that prevent the usage of the devices.
It’s worth noting what restrictions are in place before travelling so you don't land yourself in trouble. As a result, we’ve put together a list in which countries currently have restrictions on e-cigarettes.
Restrictions
Similar to the UK, there are still restrictions on the usage of e-cigarettes in enclosed public spaces and on public transport. Using the devices in open spaces shouldn’t be an issue but it’s best to adhere to their laws and customs when visiting these following countries.
Afghanistan
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
China
Canada
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Djibouti
Ecuador
Egypt
Estonia
Fiji
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Greece
Honduras
Hungary
Iceland
Indonesia
Iraq
Ireland
Italy
Ivory Coast
Jamaica
Jordan
S. Korea
Latvia
Libya
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malaysia
Maldives
Malta
Moldova
Morocco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Palau
Pakistan
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Romania
San Marino
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sudan
Sweden
Switzerland
Tajikistan
Togo
Tunisia
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
Vietnam
Yemen
Legal to use, Illegal to Sell
In other countries, it’s perfectly acceptable to vape in designated areas but it’s illegal to sell e-cigarettes and e-liquid. Due to this, you might struggle to get accessories or juice abroad, so make sure you pack plenty within your case.
Antigua & Barbuda
Argentina
Bahrain
Bhutan
Brazil
Bulgaria
Colombia
Ethiopia
Mauritius
Oman
Panama
Seychelles
Banned
While vaping is a reasonably acceptable alternative to cigarettes, there are still countries that have banned vaping outright.
If ignored, this could get you in serious trouble as they are viewed as prohibited goods. If travelling to any of the countries below, you may want to consider looking at nicotine replacement therapies to curb any cravings.
Australia
Barbados
Brunei Darussalam
Cambodia
Costa Rica
Gambia
India
Iran
Japan
N. Korea
Kuwait
Lao PDR
Lebanon
Mauritius
Mexico
Nepal
Nicaragua
Oman
Palestine
Panama
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
Seychelles
Singapore
Sri Lanka
Suriname
Syria
Thailand
Timor-Leste
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Uganda
Uruguay
Vatican City
Venezuela
Each banned area does have laws in place and, if caught, you could be fined hundreds of pounds or even extended imprisonment.
Vaping Abroad
E-cigarettes have become a popular topic in the UK with numerous leading figures showing support for the devices, including Public Health England, the NHS, Cancer Research UK, Royal Society of Public Health and ASH.
Sadly, this support doesn’t continue in neighbouring countries, which is something every vaper needs to be aware of before travelling overseas.
If in doubt, check the government’s website you are travelling to for clarity and, if restrictions are in place, make alternative arrangements that will help curb any nicotine cravings.
For a stress-free holiday, always check the countries stance on vaping as well as airports - see our blog Travelling with your E-cigarette, for more information.
