A Norwegian tourist, Mads Mikkelsen, was denied entry to the United States after admitting to having used marijuana in jurisdictions where it is legal. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials clarified that the denial was based on the visitor’s admission of prior drug use—not political memes or social media content involving Vice President J.D. Vance.
The incident occurred at a New Jersey port of entry earlier this month. Mikkelsen disclosed that he had used cannabis while legally traveling in places like Germany and Mexico. Although recreational marijuana is legal there, cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance under U.S. federal law, and CBP agents routinely deny entry to individuals who admit to any prior marijuana use.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security and CBP responded swiftly to misinformation suggesting a political motive, stating clearly that “the truth is he was refused entry into the U.S. for his admitted drug use.” This incident underscores the federal government’s strict policy toward cannabis—even before someone physically crosses the border.
That policy applies regardless of changes in state-level marijuana laws. Non-citizens, including tourists, are considered inadmissible if they acknowledge prior use of federally illegal substances. Admitting cannabis use during customs questioning can trigger a permanent bar on entry.
The case highlights a striking disconnect: cannabis may be legal for recreational use in many jurisdictions, but federal law still regards it as an illegal drug. Travelers should be aware that any admissions related to drug use—regardless of legality in other countries—can result in being turned away at U.S. ports of entry.
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