Customs issues alert about potential risks during the festive season
Summer holidays are a much-anticipated highlight for many, but understanding the customs rules and allowances for bringing back souvenirs, alcohol, and tobacco from non-EU countries can make the journey smoother.
When returning from a non-EU country like Turkey, Egypt, or the UK into an EU country such as France, the following customs rules and limits apply per traveler:
**Tobacco Products (from non-EU countries):** - 200 cigarettes (1 carton) - 100 cigarillos (each ≤ 3 g) - 50 cigars - 250 grams of loose tobacco
**Alcoholic Beverages (from non-EU countries):** - 4 liters of still (non-sparkling) wine - 16 liters of beer - 1 liter of spirits (above 22% ABV) or 2 liters of fortified wine (up to 22% ABV)
These quantities are duty-free allowances. If you exceed them, you will be subject to customs duties and VAT according to the respective rates for alcohol and tobacco products.
Customs duty is generally charged on gifts containing alcohol or tobacco, and VAT is always due. The limit for personal belongings value without customs duties may vary by country, but for example, Ukraine allows duty-free import below €300 for travelers over 15 years old. Some products (weapons, poisonous substances, cultural/historical monuments) are prohibited or highly restricted.
For a comprehensive list of the allowances, refer to the customs website: www.zoll.de
It is recommended to check online before traveling to avoid any pitfalls regarding bringing back travel souvenirs. Remember that the goods must be carried in the same transport; sending them separately does not count towards the allowance.
In addition to the customs rules, it's important to note that nature conservation advises staying away from souvenirs made from animals and plants. Picking up seashells, corals, plants, or buying animal products as souvenirs could result in a fine.
Meanwhile, in Hamm, the Hamm Food Bank has an urgent need for drivers. No further details about a new substitution practice aiming to open in 2025 were provided.
Travelers should declare items exceeding these allowances to avoid fines or confiscation and check for country-specific limits and prohibitions. Customs officers may check and request declarations if limits or value exceed the thresholds.
By following these guidelines, travelers can ensure a hassle-free return from their summer holidays.
- To ensure a smooth journey while returning from a non-EU country like Turkey, Egypt, or the UK into an EU country such as France, one should be aware of the customs rules for lifestyle products, such as the duty-free allowances for tobacco products and alcoholic beverages.
- In order to maintain a hassle-free return from their summer holidays, travelers are advised to properly declare any items exceeding these allowances for tobacco products and alcoholic beverages to avoid fines or confiscation, and also check for country-specific limits and prohibitions regarding souvenirs, especially those made from animals or plants.
