Paraguay customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Paraguay's biggest customs risk is the strict enforcement of cash declaration: any amount over USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on arrival, with penalties including seizure and fines up to 50% of the undeclared amount. The country uses a red/green dual-channel system at all entry points, and there is no VAT refund for tourists.

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+. Duty-free value included in the USD 800 goods allowance.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes

or 50 cigars / 250 g

Cash to declare

$10,000

PYG 74,000,000 (approx. USD 10,000) or more in cash or monetary instruments must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form (Formulario de Declaración de Equipaje) at the red channel.

Goods duty-free

$800

Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 (or equivalent in PYG). Above this, a flat 50% duty applies on the excess value. Items for personal use only.

Prohibited — banned from import

Narcotics and psychotropic substances not prescribed by a Paraguayan doctor
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without prior authorization from the Ministry of Defense
Pornographic material (including digital media) deemed obscene
Endangered species and products derived from them (CITES-listed)
Counterfeit currency, goods, or pirated intellectual property
Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

Medications containing controlled substances (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids) — require a prescription and prior approval from DINAVISA
Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles — require registration with the National Civil Aviation Authority (DINAC)
Satellite phones and encrypted communication devices — require authorization from the National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL)
Live animals and plants — require import permits from the Servicio Nacional de Calidad y Sanidad Vegetal y de Semillas (SENAVE) or the Servicio Nacional de Calidad y Salud Animal (SENACSA)

Arriving: red vs green channel

Upon arrival, you receive a Customs Declaration Form (Declaración de Equipaje). If you have nothing to declare and your goods are within the duty-free limits, proceed through the green channel. If you have goods to declare, cash over USD 10,000, or restricted/prohibited items, use the red channel for inspection. The customs form is collected at the exit; there is no separate arrival card.

Bringing medication

Personal medications for up to 30 days' supply are allowed without a prescription. For longer courses or controlled substances (e.g., psychotropics), carry a doctor's prescription in Spanish or English and a medical certificate. Some common Western medications (e.g., certain ADHD drugs) may be controlled; check with the Dirección Nacional de Vigilancia Sanitaria (DINAVISA).

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 from the country of origin. Processed and sealed commercial food items for personal consumption are usually allowed in small quantities.

Rules worth knowing

No VAT Refund for Tourists

Paraguay does not operate a tourist VAT refund scheme. All purchases made locally include the 10% VAT (IVA), and there is no mechanism to reclaim it upon departure.

Dual-Channel System

Paraguay uses a red/green channel system at all international airports and land borders. If you have anything to declare, you must use the red channel; failure to do so can result in confiscation and fines.

Currency Declaration is Strict

Any amount exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the customs form. Undeclared cash can be seized and you may face fines of up to 50% of the amount.

Land Border Crossings

Many travellers enter Paraguay by land from Argentina or Brazil. The same duty-free allowances apply, but be aware that customs checks at land borders can be less frequent but still enforced — always declare goods and cash.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, if they are for personal use and their total value (combined with other goods) does not exceed USD 800. If the total exceeds that, duty of 50% applies on the excess. You may be asked to prove they are for personal use (e.g., not new in box).

There is no specific limit on PYG, but any amount equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. For amounts below that, no declaration is needed.

You must declare the excess at the red channel. Duty of 50% will be applied on the value of the excess alcohol. If you fail to declare, the items may be confiscated and you could be fined.

Sealed commercial packages of yerba mate and dulce de leche for personal consumption are generally allowed. However, fresh fruits, meats, and dairy are prohibited without a phytosanitary certificate. Always declare food items to avoid penalties.

No, personal medical devices like glasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids are considered personal effects and do not need to be declared, as long as they are for your own use.

One smartphone and one tablet per person are generally considered personal items and are duty-free if their value is within the USD 800 total allowance. Multiple units may be treated as commercial goods and subject to duty.

If you are transiting and not entering Paraguay, you will not clear customs. Your luggage will be checked through to your final destination. If you must collect and re-check bags, you will go through Paraguayan customs and the same rules apply.

Official source

Dirección Nacional de Aduanas (DNA) - Paraguay