Equatorial Guinea customs rules & duty-free allowances
Equatorial Guinea's customs enforcement is strict and unpredictable. The biggest risk is the low cash declaration threshold—declare any amount over 1,000,000 XAF (≈$1,650) or risk seizure and fines. Overstaying with undeclared goods or cash is the most common pitfall for non-resident adults arriving in 2026.
Duty-free allowances
Prohibited — banned from import
- Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, cocaine, heroin)
- Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a permit
- Counterfeit currency and goods
- Pornographic materials
- Endangered species and products (ivory, rhino horn, etc.)
- Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
- Medications containing codeine, diazepam, or tramadol (require prior authorization from Ministry of Health)
- Drones and satellite phones (require a permit from the Ministry of Defense)
- Plants, seeds, and live animals (require phytosanitary and veterinary certificates)
- Cultural artifacts and antiques (require export permit from the Ministry of Culture)
- Large sums of cash over 1,000,000 XAF (must declare)
Arriving: red vs green channel
You will receive a customs declaration card on the plane or at the airport. Fill it out honestly. If you have nothing to declare, proceed through the green channel. If you have goods or cash above the limits, use the red channel and present your declaration. Officers may inspect luggage randomly.
Bringing medication
Personal medications are allowed for up to 3 months' supply. Carry a doctor's prescription in English or French. Narcotics, psychotropics, and some common painkillers (e.g., codeine) require prior authorization from the Ministry of Health. Diazepam and tramadol are controlled.
Food, plants & animal products
Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and plants are prohibited without a phytosanitary certificate. Processed and sealed foods for personal use are allowed in small quantities. Declare any food items to avoid fines.
Rules worth knowing
Cash declaration threshold is low
You must declare any cash or monetary instruments exceeding 1,000,000 XAF (≈$1,650). This is much lower than the global standard of $10,000. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.
No duty-free shops at Malabo Airport
Malabo International Airport has limited duty-free facilities. Most travellers buy their allowances before arrival. Plan accordingly.
Strict enforcement on electronics
Laptops, cameras, and phones are considered personal goods, but multiple units (e.g., 3+ phones) may be treated as commercial imports and subject to duty. Declare if unsure.
Temporary import of vehicles
If you bring a vehicle, you must obtain a temporary import permit (carnet de passage) or pay a deposit. The process is bureaucratic and can take days.