Austria customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Austria enforces EU-wide duty-free allowances for non-residents arriving from outside the EU: 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/beer, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco, and personal goods up to EUR 300 (about USD 320) are duty-free. Cash of EUR 10,000 or more (about USD 10,700) must be declared. Narcotics, counterfeit goods, and certain meats from non-EU countries are strictly prohibited.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer (under 22% ABV). Traveller must be 17+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,700
Cash or equivalent monetary instruments of EUR 10,000 or more (about USD 10,700) must be declared in writing to Austrian customs upon arrival.
Goods duty-free
$320
Personal goods up to EUR 300 (about USD 320) are duty-free for non-residents arriving from outside the EU. Above that, duty and VAT (20%) apply.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with a medical prescription)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated items
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed) without permits
  • Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries (except limited quantities from approved countries like Andorra, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a permit
  • Obscene or pornographic materials

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use (prescription required for controlled substances; carry a doctor's note)
  • Plants, seeds, and soil (must be declared and may require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Pets (cats, dogs, ferrets) require an EU pet passport and rabies vaccination
  • Drones over 250g must be registered with Austro Control and operator must have an EU drone license
  • Cultural goods (antiques, artworks) may require an export permit from the country of origin

Rules worth knowing

EU Duty-Free vs. Intra-EU Travel

If arriving from another EU country, duty-free allowances do not apply; goods for personal use are generally free of duty and tax. The limits above apply only to arrivals from outside the EU.

Tobacco and Alcohol Age Limits

You must be 18 to bring in tobacco products and 17 to bring in alcoholic beverages. Customs may ask for ID.

Cash Declaration Threshold

Any person entering or leaving Austria with cash or equivalent monetary instruments totaling EUR 10,000 or more must declare it. This includes banknotes, coins, traveler's checks, and negotiable instruments.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Non-residents can temporarily import a vehicle for up to 6 months without paying duty, provided it is not sold or used for commercial purposes in Austria.

Frequently asked questions

Meat and dairy products from most non-EU countries are banned. Limited quantities of powdered infant milk (up to 2 kg), infant food (up to 2 kg), and pet food (up to 2 kg) are allowed if for medical reasons and in original packaging. Fruits, vegetables, and nuts are generally allowed in small quantities (up to 5 kg) for personal use, but must be declared.
You must declare the excess goods and pay customs duty and VAT (20% standard rate) on the total value. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines up to EUR 2,180.
No, personal electronics for your own use during your stay are generally not subject to duty. However, if you are carrying multiple high-value items (e.g., more than 2 laptops), customs may ask for proof they are for personal use.
Yes, for personal use up to a 3-month supply. Carry a doctor's prescription or a letter explaining the condition and dosage. For controlled substances (e.g., strong painkillers), you may need an import permit from the Austrian health authority (AGES).
No limit, but any amount of EUR 10,000 or more (or equivalent in other currencies) must be declared. Undeclared cash can be seized and you may be fined up to 50% of the amount.
Yes, but if it weighs over 250g, you must register it with Austro Control and have an EU drone operator license (A1/A3 or A2). Drones over 25kg require additional permits. Flying in no-fly zones (e.g., near airports) is prohibited.

Official source

Austrian Customs (Zollamt Österreich)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Austrian Customs (Zollamt Österreich) before travelling.