Bolivia customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Bolivia strictly enforces biosecurity and cash declaration. Failure to declare agricultural products or cash over BOB 69,000 can result in heavy fines or seizure. All non-resident adult travellers entering in 2026 must complete a Customs Declaration Form (DUA).

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol

1.0 L

1 liter of alcoholic beverages over 22% ABV, or 2 liters of wine or beer. Must be 18+.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes

or 50 cigars / 250 g

Cash to declare

$10,000

Declare cash or monetary instruments exceeding BOB 69,000 (approx. USD 10,000) on the Customs Declaration Form (DUA).

Goods duty-free

$800

Duty-free allowance for personal goods up to USD 800 (or equivalent in BOB). Above this, a flat 15% duty applies on the excess value.

Prohibited — banned from import

Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, even for medical use without prior authorization)
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (without special permit from the Bolivian Ministry of Defense)
Counterfeit currency and goods infringing intellectual property rights
Asbestos and products containing asbestos
Endangered species and products derived from them (e.g., jaguar skins, caiman leather) under CITES
Pornographic material (considered obscene under Bolivian law)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

Medicines containing controlled substances (require a doctor's prescription and import permit from the Ministry of Health)
Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (require prior authorization from the Bolivian Civil Aviation Authority)
Satellite phones and encrypted communication devices (require a permit from the telecommunications regulator ATT)
Cultural heritage items (antiques, archaeological artifacts) require an export permit from the Ministry of Cultures
Plants, seeds, and live animals (require phytosanitary or veterinary certificates)

Arriving: red vs green channel

Upon arrival, you will receive a Customs Declaration Form (DUA). Fill it out and proceed to the green channel if you have nothing to declare, or the red channel if you have goods exceeding the allowance, restricted items, or cash to declare. Officers may randomly inspect luggage.

Bringing medication

Personal medications for up to 30 days' supply are allowed without a prescription. For controlled substances (e.g., psychotropics), carry a doctor's prescription and a notarized letter from your physician. Some common medications like codeine or diazepam may be restricted.

Food, plants & animal products

All food, plants, seeds, and animal products must be declared. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy are generally prohibited unless accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate. Failure to declare can lead to confiscation and fines.

Rules worth knowing

Coca Leaves

Coca leaves are legal in Bolivia but strictly controlled. You may bring up to 1 kg of dried coca leaves for personal use, but they must be declared. Exporting coca leaves is prohibited without a special permit.

No Duty-Free Shops at Land Borders

Bolivia's land border crossings typically have no duty-free shops. Plan accordingly if you are entering by land, as you cannot purchase duty-free goods at the border.

Strict Biosecurity for Agricultural Products

Bolivia is highly protective of its agriculture. Any food, plant, or animal product must be declared. Even common items like apples or cheese can be confiscated if not declared. Fines for non-compliance can reach BOB 10,000 (approx. USD 1,450).

Frequently asked questions

Yes, coca tea bags are legal and commonly sold in Bolivia. You can bring a reasonable quantity for personal use (e.g., a few boxes) without issue. They do not need to be declared unless you have a large commercial quantity.

No, personal electronics like laptops and cameras for your own use do not need to be declared, as long as they are within the USD 800 duty-free allowance. If you are carrying multiple high-value items, you may be asked to prove they are for personal use.

You can request a replacement form from customs officers at the airport. It is best to fill it out before reaching the inspection point. There is no penalty for losing it, but you will need to complete a new one.

Yes, but you must obtain prior authorization from the Bolivian Civil Aviation Authority (AASANA). Without it, your drone may be confiscated. The process can take weeks, so apply well in advance.

There is no limit on bringing bolivianos in or out, but any amount exceeding BOB 69,000 (USD 10,000) must be declared. For amounts over that, you may need to prove the source of funds.

Common blood pressure medications like losartan or amlodipine are allowed without a prescription for personal use, up to a 30-day supply. For larger quantities, carry a doctor's note.

Satellite phones are restricted and require a permit from the telecommunications regulator (ATT). Without a permit, the device will be confiscated. Apply at least 30 days before travel.

Official source

Bolivian Customs (Aduana Nacional de Bolivia)