Ketamine Legal Status in Greece

controlled
Last updated: February 2026

Current Legal Status

Ketamine is currently a controlled substance in Greece. Possession, purchase, or distribution may be illegal and subject to criminal penalties. This compound is not available for shipping to Greece.

What This Means

Ketamine has been scheduled as a controlled substance in Greece. This typically occurred as part of broader efforts to regulate novel psychoactive substances. The scheduling means:

  • Possession without proper authorization is illegal
  • Sale and distribution are criminal offenses
  • Importation is prohibited and may result in seizure
  • Penalties can include fines and imprisonment

About Ketamine

Ketamine is a well-studied dissociative anesthetic used extensively in NMDA receptor research and pharmaceutical development. Serves as a reference standard for arylcyclohexylamine studies.

View Full Compound Information →

Regulatory Framework in Greece

Legal Framework

Greece regulates controlled substances under Law 4139/2013 (Greek Drug Law) and Presidential Decree 114/2013, which transpose EU directives and establish national controlled substance schedules. The National Organization for Medicines (EOF) maintains updated lists of controlled psychotropic substances and precursors.

Scheduling History

Greek drug policy has modernized significantly in recent decades, with comprehensive reforms in 2013 updating the legislative framework. Greece participates in EU monitoring systems and implements EU-wide controls while conducting national risk assessments. The country has been particularly vigilant regarding substances entering through Mediterranean shipping routes.

Research Exceptions

Research on controlled substances in Greece requires authorization from EOF and compliance with Ministry of Health regulations. Academic and pharmaceutical research institutions must demonstrate scientific legitimacy and maintain documentation meeting EU and Greek standards. Greece has established procedures for research authorization, though bureaucratic processes can be lengthy.

Penalties & Enforcement

Greek penalties for drug offenses vary by substance classification and offense severity. Trafficking in narcotic drugs can result in life imprisonment for large-scale operations, with typical sentences ranging from 8-20 years for serious cases. Personal possession is treated more leniently following 2013 reforms. Greece distinguishes between commercial distribution and individual possession in sentencing.

Recent Legislative Changes

Recent Greek regulatory focus has included synthetic cannabinoids arriving through ports, novel stimulants, and benzodiazepine analogs. The country has strengthened cooperation with EU agencies and neighboring states on drug monitoring. EOF publishes regular updates on scheduling decisions and substances under evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Ketamine controlled in Greece?

Ketamine has been scheduled as a controlled substance in Greece, typically due to health risk assessments, abuse potential concerns, or as part of broader regulatory frameworks addressing novel psychoactive substances.

Can I get a research permit for Ketamine in Greece?

Potentially, yes. Greece has provisions for licensed research on controlled substances, though requirements are stringent. You would need to apply to the relevant health authority with detailed research protocols and institutional oversight documentation.

What are the penalties for possessing Ketamine in Greece?

Penalties vary based on quantity and intent but can include substantial fines and imprisonment. Possession without authorization, supply, and importation are all offenses. Penalties are typically more severe for trafficking compared to personal possession.

Are there legal alternatives to Ketamine in Greece?

Possibly. We stock numerous research chemicals with varying legal statuses. Visit our legal status guide to find compounds that are unscheduled in Greece and may serve similar research purposes.

Does EuroChems ship Ketamine to Greece?

No. EuroChems does not ship controlled substances to jurisdictions where they are scheduled. We comply fully with international shipping regulations and will not process orders that violate local laws.

Legal Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Laws regarding research chemicals change frequently. Always verify current legislation in your jurisdiction before purchasing or possessing any controlled or uncontrolled substance. EuroChems is not responsible for compliance with local laws. All products are sold strictly for research purposes only.