Guyana customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Guyana enforces strict biosecurity and cash declaration rules. Undeclared agricultural items or cash over GYD 2,000,000 (~USD 10,000) risk seizure and fines. Always declare all goods and cash to avoid penalties.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 litres of wine or beer. Must be 18+. Duty-free value up to GYD 20,000 (~USD 96).
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Declare cash or equivalent monetary instruments exceeding GYD 2,000,000 (~USD 10,000) on the Customs Declaration Form (CDF). Failure to declare can result in forfeiture.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts up to GYD 160,000 (~USD 800). Above that, duty is charged at rates from 5% to 40% depending on the item.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Illegal drugs and narcotics (including marijuana, even for medical use without prior approval)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a license from the Guyana Police Force
  • Pornographic materials
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Endangered species and products (e.g., ivory, turtle shells) under CITES
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medications containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam) – require a prescription and prior approval from the Guyana Pharmacy Council
  • Plants, seeds, and soil – require an import permit from the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture
  • Pets (dogs, cats) – require a valid rabies vaccination certificate and an import permit from the Guyana Veterinary Authority
  • Drones and satellite phones – require a license from the Guyana Telecommunications Agency
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques – require an export permit from the Guyana National Museum

Arriving: red vs green channel

After collecting luggage, proceed to the Customs hall. If you have nothing to declare or goods within the duty-free limits, use the Green Channel. If you have goods to declare, restricted items, or cash above the threshold, use the Red Channel. You must complete a Customs Declaration Form (CDF) regardless of channel.

Bringing medication

Personal medications for up to 30 days' supply are allowed without a prescription. For longer stays or controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam), carry a doctor's prescription and a letter explaining the condition. Some common Western medications (e.g., Adderall, certain antidepressants) are controlled and require prior approval from the Guyana Pharmacy Council.

Food, plants & animal products

All food, plants, seeds, soil, and animal products must be declared. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy are generally prohibited without a permit from the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture. Processed and packaged foods for personal use are usually allowed if declared.

Rules worth knowing

Duty-Free Allowance is Per Person

The duty-free allowances (alcohol, tobacco, goods) apply per adult traveller, not per family. Children under 18 have no alcohol or tobacco allowance.

Cash Declaration is Mandatory

Any amount over GYD 2,000,000 (~USD 10,000) in cash or monetary instruments must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form. Undeclared cash can be seized and you may face fines or prosecution.

No Duty-Free Shops on Arrival

Guyana's international airport (Cheddi Jagan) has no duty-free shop after customs. If you buy duty-free at your departure airport, it must be in your carry-on and declared if over the allowance.

Strict Biosecurity Checks

Guyana enforces strict biosecurity. All food, plants, and animal products must be declared. Sniffer dogs patrol the baggage hall. Undeclared items are confiscated and you may be fined.

Frequently asked questions

Fishing rods and reels are allowed as personal effects. Hunting equipment (rifles, bows) requires a firearm license from the Guyana Police Force and an import permit. Ammunition is restricted.
Yes, all gifts must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form. The total value of gifts and personal goods must not exceed GYD 160,000 (~USD 800) duty-free. Above that, duty is charged.
Drones require a license from the Guyana Telecommunications Agency (GTA). You must apply in advance. Without a license, the drone may be confiscated at customs.
You can request a new form from the customs officer at the Red Channel. It's best to keep it with your passport. There is no penalty for a lost form if you report it immediately.
Personal jewelry for your own use is allowed. Gold bars or large quantities of gold require a permit from the Guyana Gold Board. Declare any jewelry over GYD 500,000 (~USD 2,400) in value.
Yes, for up to 30 days' supply. Carry a doctor's prescription and a letter explaining your condition. For controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam), you need prior approval from the Guyana Pharmacy Council.
One laptop and one camera per person are generally allowed as personal effects duty-free, provided they are for personal use and not for resale. They count toward the GYD 160,000 (~USD 800) goods allowance.

Official source

Guyana Revenue Authority – Customs and Trade Administration

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Guyana Revenue Authority – Customs and Trade Administration before travelling.