Honduras customs rules & duty-free allowances
Honduras customs enforcement is strict: officers routinely open bags, and a single written declaration per family is mandatory. The biggest risk for travelers is failing to declare dutiable goods, which triggers a 100% fine and possible confiscation. All non-resident adults arriving in 2026 are subject to these rules.
Duty-free allowances
Prohibited — banned from import
- Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, even for medical use without prior authorization)
- Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and weapons (including pepper spray and tasers)
- Pornographic material (including digital content deemed obscene)
- Endangered species products (CITES-listed items like turtle shells, crocodile leather, or parrot feathers)
- Counterfeit goods and pirated media
- Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products from countries with active animal disease outbreaks
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
- Medications containing controlled substances (require Ministry of Health permit)
- Plants, seeds, and live animals (require phytosanitary or veterinary certificate)
- Drones and radio transmitters (require prior authorization from the Honduran telecommunications regulator CONATEL)
- Satellite phones and GPS devices with encryption (require a permit from the Ministry of Defense)
- Cultural artifacts and antiques (require export permit from the Honduran Institute of Anthropology and History)
Arriving: red vs green channel
After baggage claim, you'll receive a Customs Declaration Form (DUA-01). Fill it out (one per family). If you have nothing to declare or are within limits, go to the green channel. If you have goods above the allowance, cash over 10,000 USD, or restricted items, go to the red channel. Officers may inspect randomly.
Bringing medication
Personal medications in original packaging are allowed for up to 30 days' supply. Carry a doctor's prescription in Spanish or English. Narcotics, psychotropics, and any medication containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam) require prior authorization from the Honduran Ministry of Health. Some common decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine) are restricted.
Food, plants & animal products
All food, plants, seeds, fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and animal products must be declared. Banned: fresh fruits, vegetables, meats (especially pork), and dairy from countries with foot-and-mouth disease or avian flu. Processed, sealed commercial foods in small quantities are usually allowed after inspection.
Rules worth knowing
Single Family Declaration
All members of a family traveling together must submit a single Customs Declaration Form (DUA-01). You cannot split allowances among individuals.
15% Customs Handling Fee
On any dutiable goods (value above 800 USD), Honduras adds a 15% customs handling fee on top of the regular duty. This is not a deposit; it's a fee.
No Duty-Free Shop Allowance
Duty-free purchases made abroad are included in your 800 USD personal goods allowance. There is no separate duty-free shop exemption.
Strict Enforcement on Electronics
Laptops, tablets, and cameras are generally considered personal items if they appear used. New-in-box electronics are treated as commercial goods and may be taxed or require an import permit.