Governments around the world are rethinking their approach towards vaping. When vape kits came on the scene, they were seen as a novel alternative that could help smokers give up cigarettes for good. Now, the same electronic cigarettes are facing severe restrictions in many countries and are totally banned in many others. So, if you are planning a trip out of the UK, understanding where vaping is allowed and where vapes are banned is crucial.
Strict vape laws are being put in place due to two main concerns: nicotine addiction in young people and the environmental problem of electronic waste. This article lists the countries that have implemented the toughest bans and goes over the reasons behind these vape restrictions and prohibitions in 2026.
What Are Vape Bans
So, when we talk about a "ban," it can actually mean different things in different places. In its broadest sense, in countries with a full prohibition, you cannot sell, import, or even possess a vape. And these bans are strictly enforced, too. On the other hand, many countries have partial vape bans, which prohibit the sale or use of only disposable vapes, and other refillable kits are perfectly legal. There are still other places where you can get a vape, but only if it is prescribed.
As reported by the World Health Organization, about 34 countries have banned the sale of e-cigarettes. This number has been growing over the years. So, for all their benefits over cigarettes, more and more nations are choosing to place strict control on vapes and vaping products.
Countries Where Vaping is Illegal
If you are flying with vapes to a country with full vape prohibitions, you simply cannot risk taking anything vape-related with you. If you are found in possession of any vape accessory, at the airport or at your vacation spot, you can face severe penalties. One could be slapped with heavy fines or even have to face imprisonment. Therefore, always leave your vape at home when visiting these places.
Asia and the Pacific
Several major Asian destinations have led the way with complete bans. They often cite youth protection and public health for these severe measures. The following is a list of countries where vaping is illegal:
- Singapore: This city-state, notorious for its harsh penalties for drug trafficking, bans the import, sale, or even possession of vaping products. If you are found with one, penalties can reach up to S$2,000. The fines are much higher, and there is even the possibility of jail time if you are caught importing or selling.
- Thailand: A very popular tourist destination, strictly prohibits the import and sale of vapes. You risk having your vaping devices confiscated or facing fines if caught.
- India: India implemented a nationwide ban on vapes under its 2019 Act. It covers manufacture, import, sale, and possession.
- Australia: If you are a vaper landing in Australia, you might struggle to understand its complex vaping laws. You can only buy nicotine vaping products there (from a pharmacy) if you have a doctor's prescription. But if you bring vapes into the country without the correct paperwork and import permits, it is illegal and can result in severe penalties.
The list of countries with full vape bans extends beyond Asia. Other countries with full prohibitions include:
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Brunei Darussalam
- Uruguay
- Qatar
- Ethiopia
Disposable Vapes Bans Around the World
Even if you are in a country where vaping is not entirely banned, be mindful about using disposable vapes. These single-use devices have been banned in many places.
- The United Kingdom: Since 1 June 2025, it has been illegal to sell or supply disposable vapes in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. UK vape laws, however, still allow you to buy reusable devices with rechargeable batteries and refillable tanks or replaceable pods.
- France: Disposable vapes are banned in France as well. The ban is a part of a wider so-called "war on vaping" in France.
- New Zealand: New Zealand implemented its ban on disposable vapes on 17 June 2025.
- Belgium: Belgium banned disposable e-cigarettes from January 2025. It was one of the first in Europe to do so.
Not all European countries are outlawing vaping gear. Instead of banning vaping devices, the Netherlands has prohibited all e-liquid flavours except tobacco. Likewise, Denmark permits only tobacco and menthol flavours.
Travelling to Vape-Ban Countries
If you are thinking about flying to a country where vaping is fully or partially banned, keep these things in mind:
- Travel with Extreme Caution: Before any international trip, you must research the specific laws of your destination country. You can’t just assume that rules are similar to those at home. For detailed guidance, refer to our guide on Can You Take Vapes Abroad? Airport & Airline Rules Explained (2026).
- Reusable Devices: Chances are, you won’t find disposable vapes in many countries. So, as things stand, the future for vapers lies in refillable pod systems and reusable mod kits. Since refillable options are more environmentally friendly, you can expect these to remain legally available in regulated markets.
- Higher Costs: Be prepared to spend a little more on the same kit and, especially, e-liquid. If you are in the UK, there is going to be a £2.20 per 10ml duty starting in 2026. With these taxes and other sales restrictions, the cost of legal vaping will increase.
Shop a Compliant, Travel-Friendly Vape
If you’re switching from smoking to vaping, travel can feel more complicated than it needs to, thanks to changing rules and restrictions. But refillable, rechargeable devices are still easy to find when you know where to look. Shopping through an online vape shop in UK makes it easier to stay within regulations and avoid low-quality hardware. If you want something built to handle travel, you can buy Voopoo vape kits, which are known for their durable build and consistent performance.
