Information about exemption from import duties and excise duties upon arrival from abroad
ORANJESTAD – Customs has recently received many questions about the exemption from import duties and excise duties upon arrival from abroad.
To avoid confusion and promote a smooth arrival, Customs is sharing the following information.
Baggage with personal belongings
According to Article 128 of the National Ordinance on Import, Export and Transit (LIUD), goods brought by a traveler upon arrival from abroad up to an invoice value of 900 guilders may be exempt from import duties, provided that:
- the goods are intended for the traveler's personal use;
- the goods are not intended for sale or commercial use.
Products exceeding this value are taxable on the full amount.
What does "personal use" mean?
"Personal use" means that the items are intended for and by the traveler, who uses them personally. Furthermore, the items purchased abroad must be in the traveler's possession upon arrival. The exemption does not apply to items intended for others (such as family or friends) or for commercial/business use.
If Customs determines that goods are for commercial use, import duties must be paid via a declaration. This requires the involvement of a customs broker. Please note that this is a longer process and cannot be completed on the day of arrival.
In addition, the exemption does not apply to items brought in groups.
Other Products
Certain products, such as alcohol and tobacco products, are also subject to specific limits for exemption from import duties and excise duties.
Allowed Amount of Alcohol
- Each person aged 16 or older may bring 1 liter of spirits (e.g., rum or whiskey), or 2.25 liters of wine, or 3 liters of beer.
Allowed Amount of Tobacco
- Each person aged 16 or older may bring 200 cigarettes (1 carton), or 25 cigars, or 50 cigarillos, or 250 grams of tobacco.
Anyone who exceeds the permitted quantity must pay import duties and excise taxes. As mentioned previously, these products must be in your personal possession and intended solely for personal use. The exemption does not apply to products brought in groups.
More information
For more information—including rules for the import of special items such as meat, medicines, plants, electronic devices, or pets—please visit www.douane.aw, email info@douane.aw, or call +297 523 8888.
