Bangladesh customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Bangladesh strictly enforces a ban on beef imports and prohibits materials deemed offensive to Islam or the state. Cash over USD 5,000 must be declared on arrival. These rules apply to all non-resident adult travellers in 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 litres of wine/beer. Duty-free only for non-Muslim travellers aged 18+. Local currency: duty-free up to BDT 3,000 (approx. USD 35).
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$5,000
Declare any amount over USD 5,000 or equivalent in BDT (approx. BDT 575,000). Use the Customs Declaration Form (CDF) at the red channel. Amounts over USD 10,000 require prior approval from Bangladesh Bank.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 (approx. BDT 92,000). Above that, a flat 25% duty applies on the excess value.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotic drugs (cannabis, cocaine, heroin, etc.)
  • Beef and beef products (including tinned beef, beef jerky)
  • Pornography and obscene materials
  • Materials against Islam or the state (e.g., books, pamphlets, flags)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (without a license)
  • Counterfeit currency and goods

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (require prescription and doctor's letter)
  • Live plants, seeds, and soil (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters (require prior approval from Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission)
  • Drones (require import permit and clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority)
  • Currency over USD 5,000 (must declare; over USD 10,000 needs Bangladesh Bank approval)

Arriving: red vs green channel

After collecting your baggage, proceed to the customs hall. If you have nothing to declare or goods within the duty-free limits, go through the green channel. If you have goods to declare, cash over USD 5,000, or restricted items, use the red channel and fill out the Customs Declaration Form (CDF). Officers may randomly inspect bags.

Tax-free shopping & VAT refunds

Bangladesh does not operate a tourist VAT refund scheme for departing travellers.

Bringing medication

Personal medications for up to 3 months' supply are allowed without a prescription. For controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam), carry a doctor's prescription and a letter from your physician. Narcotics like cannabis, cocaine, and heroin are strictly banned.

Food, plants & animal products

All food, plants, seeds, and animal products must be declared. Beef and beef products are banned. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat require a phytosanitary certificate and import permit. Dairy products are restricted.

Rules worth knowing

Beef Ban

Bangladesh bans the import of beef and all beef products, including canned beef and beef jerky. Travellers found with beef items face confiscation and possible fines.

Religious and Political Materials

Any printed, audio, or video material deemed offensive to Islam or critical of the government is prohibited. Customs officers actively screen for such items, and possession can lead to legal action.

Cash Declaration Threshold

You must declare any amount of foreign currency or BDT exceeding USD 5,000 (or equivalent) on arrival. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties. Amounts over USD 10,000 require prior approval from Bangladesh Bank.

Alcohol for Non-Muslims Only

Duty-free alcohol is allowed only for non-Muslim travellers. Muslim travellers are prohibited from importing alcohol, and customs may ask for proof of religion (e.g., passport indicating religion).

Frequently asked questions

Satellite phones require prior approval from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC). Drones need an import permit and clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority. Without these, the items will be confiscated.
If you fail to declare cash over USD 5,000 (or equivalent in BDT), customs can seize the entire amount and impose a fine of up to 100% of the undeclared value. You may also face legal proceedings.
Yes. Any material that is considered offensive to Islam or critical of the government is prohibited. This includes books, pamphlets, and videos. Customs officers have broad discretion to inspect and seize such items.
No. All beef and beef products are banned, including jerky, canned beef, and beef-based snacks. They will be confiscated at customs.
Personal electronics like laptops and cameras for your own use are generally allowed duty-free as part of your personal baggage. However, if you are carrying multiple units (e.g., 3+ laptops), customs may treat them as commercial goods and charge duty.
Perfume is considered a personal good. Up to USD 800 worth of goods (including perfume) is duty-free. There is no specific litre limit, but reasonable quantities for personal use are expected. Excessive amounts may be assessed for duty.
Yes, but only with a valid prescription from your doctor and a letter explaining your medical condition. Limit to a 3-month supply. Without documentation, these are treated as controlled substances and may be confiscated.

Official source

National Board of Revenue (NBR), Bangladesh Customs

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with National Board of Revenue (NBR), Bangladesh Customs before travelling.