Antigua and Barbuda customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Antigua and Barbuda allows duty-free imports of 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes for adults 18+. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Narcotics and certain meats are strictly prohibited. These rules apply in 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Must be 18 or older.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Cash or monetary instruments equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to USD 800 (or XCD 2,160) duty-free. Items above this value are subject to duty and taxes.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with special license)
  • Firearms and ammunition without a valid permit from the Commissioner of Police
  • Explosives, fireworks, and pyrotechnics
  • Counterfeit currency and goods infringing intellectual property rights
  • Pornographic materials
  • Certain meats and animal products (e.g., uncooked pork from countries with African Swine Fever)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (require a prescription and prior approval)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require a phytosanitary certificate)
  • Pets (dogs, cats) require an import permit and valid rabies vaccination certificate
  • Drones and unmanned aircraft (require prior approval from the Antigua and Barbuda Civil Aviation Authority)
  • Firearms and ammunition (require a police permit and customs clearance)

Rules worth knowing

Duty-Free Shopping at V.C. Bird International Airport

Duty-free goods purchased at the airport are subject to the same allowances as personal imports. Keep receipts for inspection.

Temporary Importation of Vehicles

Vehicles brought in for tourism can be temporarily imported for up to 3 months with a Carnet de Passages en Douane or a security deposit.

Currency Declaration for Residents

Residents leaving with over XCD 10,000 (approx. USD 3,700) must declare it. Non-residents follow the USD 10,000 threshold.

Prohibited Food Items from Certain Countries

Fresh fruits, vegetables, and uncooked meats from countries with outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease or avian flu are banned. Check with the Ministry of Agriculture before travel.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can bring additional alcohol, but duty and taxes will apply on the excess. Rates vary by type and volume.
Yes, if it contains controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam). Carry a doctor's prescription and a letter explaining the condition. Up to a 30-day supply is typically allowed.
Undeclared cash over USD 10,000 can be seized, and you may face fines or prosecution. Always declare on the customs form.
Yes, commercially packaged cheese and chocolate for personal use are generally allowed. Avoid fresh produce, meat, and dairy from restricted regions.
Gifts and personal goods up to USD 800 (XCD 2,160) are duty-free. If the total exceeds that, duty is charged on the full value.
Yes, drones require prior approval from the Antigua and Barbuda Civil Aviation Authority. Contact them at least 2 weeks before travel.

Official source

Antigua and Barbuda Customs and Excise Division

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