Tanzania customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Tanzania's customs enforcement is particularly strict on cash declarations and wildlife products. Failure to declare cash over the threshold can result in confiscation and prosecution. Wildlife items like ivory or coral require a CITES permit or proof of legal origin.

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 included in the general goods allowance of TZS 1,840,000 (approx. $800).
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding TZS 23,000,000 (approx. $10,000) using the Customs Declaration Form. Failure to declare risks seizure and penalties.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal effects and gifts up to TZS 1,840,000 (approx. $800). Above this value, duty is charged at rates from 0% to 25% depending on the item.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, heroin, cocaine)
  • Pornographic materials (including digital content)
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Wildlife trophies and products (ivory, rhino horn, etc.) without a CITES permit
  • Firearms and ammunition without a permit from the Tanzanian Police
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medications containing controlled substances (require prior approval from TMDA)
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (require a permit from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority)
  • Satellite phones and communication equipment (require a license from the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority)
  • Plants, seeds, and live animals (require phytosanitary or veterinary certificates)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require an export permit from the Department of Antiquities)

Arriving: red vs green channel

After collecting your luggage, you will pass through customs. If you have nothing to declare or your goods are within the duty-free limits, use the Green Channel. If you have goods to declare, cash over the threshold, or prohibited/restricted items, use the Red Channel and fill out a Customs Declaration Form. Officers may still stop you for inspection regardless of channel.

Tax-free shopping & VAT refunds

Tanzania does not operate a tourist VAT refund scheme for non-residents.

Bringing medication

Personal medications for up to 30 days are allowed without a prescription. For longer courses or controlled drugs (e.g., codeine, diazepam), carry a doctor's prescription and a letter explaining the condition. Some common Western medications, such as certain painkillers containing codeine, are controlled and may require prior approval from the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA).

Food, plants & animal products

All food, plants, seeds, and animal products must be declared. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy are generally prohibited unless accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate. Processed and commercially packaged foods are usually allowed but must be declared. Failure to declare can result in fines and confiscation.

Rules worth knowing

Cash Declaration is Strictly Enforced

Any amount exceeding TZS 23,000,000 (approx. $10,000) must be declared on arrival. Non-declaration can lead to confiscation of the entire amount and legal proceedings. This applies to all currencies combined.

Wildlife Products are a Red Flag

Tanzania enforces a near-total ban on importing or exporting wildlife products without a CITES permit. Even items like seashells or coral from souvenir shops may be confiscated if you cannot prove they were legally obtained.

Drones Require Prior Permission

Bringing a drone into Tanzania without a permit from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority is illegal. The drone may be seized at customs, and you could face a fine. Apply at least 30 days before travel.

Frequently asked questions

Personal electronics like laptops and cameras are generally allowed duty-free as part of your personal effects, provided they are not new or for resale. If the total value of all goods exceeds TZS 1,840,000 (approx. $800), duty may be charged on the excess.
Herbal remedies in small quantities for personal use are usually allowed, but they must be declared. If they contain any controlled substances (e.g., kratom, certain plant extracts), you may need approval from the TMDA. It's safest to carry a doctor's note.
Yes, if you leave the transit area and enter Tanzania, the cash declaration rules apply. If you remain airside and do not clear customs, you generally do not need to declare, but it's best to check with your airline.
Declare it at the Red Channel. If you declare it, the item will be confiscated and destroyed, but you will not be fined. If you fail to declare and it is found, you may face a fine of up to TZS 500,000 (approx. $215) and possible legal action.
No, there is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring in, as long as you declare any amount over TZS 23,000,000 (approx. $10,000). You may also bring up to TZS 500,000 in local currency without declaration.
For professional equipment valued over TZS 1,840,000 (approx. $800), customs may require an ATA Carnet or a temporary import bond. Without one, you may have to pay a deposit or duty. It's recommended to carry an equipment list and proof of ownership.
Yes, gifts up to a total value of TZS 1,840,000 (approx. $800) are duty-free. This includes the alcohol and tobacco allowances. If the gifts exceed this value, duty will be charged on the entire amount, not just the excess.

Official source

Tanzania Revenue Authority - Customs Department

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Tanzania Revenue Authority - Customs Department before travelling.