Marshall Islands customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

The Marshall Islands has a fragile ecosystem — biosecurity is the top priority. All food, plants, and animal products must be declared; fresh produce and meat are banned without a permit. Customs inspects all luggage, and fines for non-compliance can reach USD 5,000.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, or 2 liters of wine or beer. Must be 18 years or older. Duty-free allowance is stated in USD (local currency is USD).
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Cash or monetary instruments over USD 10,000 (local currency is USD) must be declared on arrival using Customs Declaration Form. No duty, but failure to declare risks seizure.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 (local currency is USD). Above that, duty is charged at 10% flat rate on the excess value.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and illegal drugs (including marijuana, even for medical use without prior approval)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a permit from the Chief of Police
  • Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and live plants without an import permit
  • Pornographic materials (including digital media)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated items
  • Endangered species products (e.g., ivory, turtle shell, coral)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medications containing controlled substances (require Ministry of Health approval)
  • Drones and unmanned aircraft (require Civil Aviation permit)
  • Satellite phones and encrypted communication devices (require prior authorization)
  • Animals and animal products (require import permit and health certificate)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require export permit from the government)

Arriving: red vs green channel

Upon arrival, all travellers must complete a Customs Declaration Form (provided on the aircraft or at the airport). There is no red/green channel system; all baggage is subject to inspection. If you have nothing to declare, hand the form to the officer and proceed.

Bringing medication

Personal medications in original packaging with a doctor's prescription are allowed for up to 30 days' supply. Controlled substances (e.g., narcotics, psychotropics) require prior approval from the Ministry of Health. Some common Western drugs like codeine or certain ADHD medications may be restricted.

Food, plants & animal products

All food, plants, seeds, soil, and animal products must be declared. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and live plants are strictly prohibited without an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture. Biosecurity fines are heavy.

Rules worth knowing

Biosecurity is strict

Any undeclared food, plants, or soil can result in fines up to USD 5,000 and confiscation. Always declare even if unsure.

No duty-free shops on arrival

There are no duty-free shops at Majuro International Airport. Purchase your duty-free allowances before arriving, or you may not find them locally.

Gifts for residents may be taxed

If you bring gifts intended for local residents (not for personal use), customs may assess duty based on value. Keep receipts handy.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but you need a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority. Contact them at least 30 days before arrival. Without a permit, your drone may be confiscated.
Yes. Taking or exporting coral, live shells, or marine life is strictly regulated. You may need a permit from the Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority. Even as souvenirs, they can be seized.
Customs can seize the entire amount and impose a fine. Always declare on the Customs Declaration Form. There is no duty, just a reporting requirement.
Kava (piper methysticum) is allowed for personal use, but betel nut (areca nut) is subject to biosecurity inspection. Declare it. Both may be restricted if they contain pests.
No tourist tax on arrival, but there is a departure tax of USD 20 (cash only) when leaving the Marshall Islands. This is paid at the airport.
Yes, but fishing gear must be declared. Hooks, lures, and rods are fine. However, any bait (live or frozen) is subject to biosecurity rules and may be prohibited.
If you are arriving from another country (e.g., a cruise or flight from Guam), the same duty-free limits apply. Any alcohol over 1 liter must be declared and duty paid.

Official source

Marshall Islands Customs Service

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Marshall Islands Customs Service before travelling.