Angola strictly enforces a USD 10,000 cash declaration threshold and bans all imports of used clothing and shoes. In 2026, non-resident adults arriving by air receive a duty-free allowance of 1 litre of alcohol, 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco, and personal goods up to USD 800.
Duty-free allowances
Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of alcoholic beverages (any strength). Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount equivalent to USD 10,000 or more (in any currency) must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to USD 800 (or equivalent in AOA) are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to customs duty at rates of 20-50%.
Prohibited — banned from import
Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, cocaine, heroin, and synthetic drugs)
Used clothing and second-hand shoes (import ban strictly enforced)
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without prior authorization from the Ministry of Interior
Pornographic materials (including digital files)
Counterfeit currency and goods infringing intellectual property rights
Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
Medicines for personal use (must be accompanied by a doctor's prescription; over 3 months' supply requires prior approval from the Ministry of Health)
Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require a phytosanitary certificate from the Instituto de Defesa Fitossanitária)
Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (require prior authorization from the National Civil Aviation Authority - INARVIC)
Satellite phones and cryptographic equipment (require a license from the Ministry of Telecommunications)
Precious metals, gemstones, and diamonds (must be declared and accompanied by a certificate of origin from the Ministry of Mineral Resources)
Rules worth knowing
Used clothing ban
Angola prohibits the import of used clothing and second-hand shoes. Even personal items that appear worn may be confiscated. Travellers should pack only new or nearly new garments.
Currency declaration at departure
When leaving Angola, any amount of foreign currency exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared. Travellers should keep the original declaration form received on arrival to avoid issues at departure.
Diamond export restrictions
Exporting rough diamonds requires a certificate from the Ministry of Mineral Resources. Tourists purchasing polished diamonds should keep receipts and may need a Kimberley Process certificate for stones over 1 carat.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, personal electronics like laptops, cameras, and phones for your own use are generally allowed duty-free as part of your personal effects, provided they are not new in box and are clearly for personal use. The total value of all goods must not exceed USD 800.
Undeclared amounts above USD 10,000 can be seized by customs, and you may face a fine of up to 30% of the undeclared amount or even criminal prosecution. Always declare on the red channel.
If you are transiting and remain airside, you can carry duty-free items purchased at origin. However, if you exit the transit area, you must clear customs and are subject to the same allowances as an arriving passenger (1L alcohol, 200 cigarettes).
Yes. All food products, including dried fish, spices, and meat, must be declared. Most animal products require a veterinary certificate. Dried fish is often confiscated if not accompanied by proper documentation. It's safer to avoid bringing perishable food.
Yes, you should declare any prescription medications. Carry a doctor's prescription or a letter explaining the condition and dosage. For controlled substances (e.g., opioids, sedatives), you may need prior approval from the Ministry of Health. Keep medicines in original packaging.
Drones require prior authorization from INARVIC (Angola's civil aviation authority). Without it, your drone will be confiscated at customs. Apply at least 30 days before travel. Even with authorization, you must follow strict no-fly zones.
For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Angola Customs (Serviço Nacional das Alfândegas) before travelling.