They're illegal here after too many dickheads pointed them at the cockpits of aircraft...
I believe they're illegal in the UK and EU as well, for the same reasons. I think very low powered(safe) ones are ok, for pointing at things during presentations or lessons. Although they might be focused beam LED rather than a true laser. The beam is clearly visible on mine, and it has a very intense spot. I actually bought it from a street vendor in Beijing, 50RMB(about $8 USD) including rechargeable battery and charger.