Trinidad and Tobago customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Trinidad and Tobago enforces strict agricultural biosecurity: any food, plant, or animal item must be declared or face fines up to TTD 50,000 (approx. USD 7,400). Cash over TTD 67,500 (approx. USD 10,000) must be declared. These rules apply to all arriving international travellers, including non-residents.

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. Value must not exceed TTD 900 (approx. USD 132).
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Declare cash or monetary instruments over TTD 67,500 (approx. USD 10,000) using the Customs Declaration Form (C-1).
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for gifts and personal goods up to TTD 5,400 (approx. USD 800). Above this, duty is charged at 20% on the excess value.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and illegal drugs (including marijuana, even for medical use without a permit)
  • Firearms and ammunition without a valid license from the Commissioner of Police
  • Explosives, fireworks, and pyrotechnics
  • Pornographic materials
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Endangered species and products (e.g., ivory, turtle shells) under CITES

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medications containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam) require a permit from the Ministry of Health
  • Plants, seeds, and live animals require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture
  • Drones require approval from the Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority
  • Satellite phones require a license from the Telecommunications Authority
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques need an export permit from the National Trust

Arriving: red vs green channel

All arriving passengers must complete a Customs Declaration Form (C-1). Use the green channel if you have nothing to declare; use the red channel if you have goods above the allowance, restricted items, or cash to declare. Officers may still inspect any passenger.

Bringing medication

Personal medications for up to 30 days supply are allowed without a prescription. For longer stays or controlled drugs (e.g., narcotics, psychotropics), bring a doctor's prescription and a letter from your doctor. Some common medications like codeine-containing painkillers require a permit from the Ministry of Health.

Food, plants & animal products

All food, plants, seeds, and animal products must be declared. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy are generally prohibited without a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture. Failure to declare can result in fines up to TTD 50,000 (approx. USD 7,400).

Rules worth knowing

Agricultural Declaration Required

You must declare all food, plants, and animal products on arrival. Even a single apple or sandwich can trigger a fine if not declared. The penalty for non-declaration is up to TTD 50,000 (approx. USD 7,400).

Cash Declaration Threshold in Local Currency

The cash declaration threshold is TTD 67,500 (approx. USD 10,000). This applies to all currencies combined. Use the Customs Declaration Form (C-1) to declare.

Duty-Free Goods Limit in TTD

The duty-free allowance for goods is TTD 5,400 (approx. USD 800). Above this, duty is 20% on the excess. This applies to gifts and personal items, not commercial quantities.

Tobacco and Alcohol Age Limit

You must be 18 years or older to bring in duty-free alcohol and tobacco. Officers may ask for ID.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but you need prior approval from the Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA). Contact them at least 30 days before travel. Without approval, the drone may be confiscated.
Undeclared cash over TTD 67,500 (approx. USD 10,000) can be seized and you may face a fine or prosecution. Always declare using the Customs Declaration Form (C-1).
Yes. Medications containing codeine, diazepam, or other controlled substances require a permit from the Ministry of Health. Bring a doctor's prescription and a letter explaining your condition. For regular medications, a 30-day supply is allowed without a permit.
No. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy are generally prohibited without a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture. Declare any such items or leave them behind to avoid fines.
No, Trinidad and Tobago does not offer a VAT refund for tourists. There is no tax-free shopping scheme for visitors.
Penalties are severe. Possession of narcotics can lead to imprisonment for up to 10 years and fines up to TTD 100,000 (approx. USD 14,800). Always check the list of prohibited items before packing.
No, personal electronics like laptops and cameras for personal use are generally not subject to duty. However, if you have multiple units (e.g., 3 laptops), customs may consider them commercial and charge duty.

Official source

Trinidad and Tobago Customs and Excise Division

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Trinidad and Tobago Customs and Excise Division before travelling.