Bahamas customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Travellers arriving in the Bahamas in 2026 aged 18 or older may bring duty-free either 1 litre of alcohol (spirits over 22% ABV) or 2 litres of wine/beer, OR 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco (choose one category). Cash or monetary instruments of USD 10,000 or more must be declared. Narcotics, unlicensed firearms, and certain agricultural products are strictly prohibited.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 litres of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+. Choose either alcohol OR tobacco allowance, not both.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Amounts of USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency, including BSD) must be declared on the Bahamas Customs Declaration Form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties up to 25% of the amount.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 (or BSD 800 equivalent) are duty-free for non-residents. Items exceeding this value are subject to duty on the full value at the applicable rate.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and controlled substances (including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and synthetic drugs)
  • Firearms and ammunition without a valid Bahamas Firearms Licence
  • Explosives, fireworks, and pyrotechnic devices
  • Counterfeit currency, goods, or pirated intellectual property
  • Certain meats, poultry, and dairy products from countries with disease outbreaks (e.g., foot-and-mouth, avian flu)
  • Plants, soil, and untreated agricultural products without a phytosanitary certificate

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, morphine) require a doctor's prescription and advance approval from the Bahamas Ministry of Health
  • Pets (dogs, cats) require an import permit, up-to-date vaccinations, and a health certificate issued within 14 days of travel
  • Drones and unmanned aircraft require a permit from the Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters require a licence from the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA)
  • Cultural artefacts and antiques may require an export permit from the Bahamas National Trust

Rules worth knowing

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Non-residents may bring a vehicle (car, boat, aircraft) for up to 90 days duty-free by posting a bond or cash deposit equal to the duty. A Carnet de Passages en Douane is accepted.

Duty-Free Shopping Allowance for Returning Residents

Bahamian residents returning from abroad have a separate duty-free allowance of USD 500 (or BSD 500) for goods purchased abroad, with stricter limits on alcohol and tobacco.

Prohibition on Single-Use Plastics

The Bahamas bans the importation of single-use plastic bags, straws, and cutlery. Travellers should not bring these items, even for personal use.

Currency Declaration Threshold

Any person entering or leaving the Bahamas with cash or monetary instruments (e.g., traveller's cheques, money orders) totalling USD 10,000 or more must complete a Currency Declaration Form. This applies to all currencies combined.

Frequently asked questions

No. You must choose either the alcohol allowance (1 litre of spirits OR 2 litres of wine/beer) OR the tobacco allowance (200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g tobacco). You cannot combine both allowances in one trip.
Yes, if it contains a controlled substance (e.g., codeine, morphine, diazepam). Carry the original prescription and a doctor's letter. For large quantities or unusual medications, contact the Bahamas Ministry of Health in advance.
You must pay duty on the full value of the goods, not just the excess. For example, if your goods are valued at USD 1,000, duty is calculated on the entire USD 1,000 at the applicable rate.
Yes, but you must obtain a permit from the Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority before arrival. Drones are restricted in national parks and near airports. Fines apply for unauthorised use.
There is no limit, but any amount of USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and a fine of up to 25% of the amount.
Most fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products are prohibited unless accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate. Commercially packaged, shelf-stable snacks (e.g., chips, chocolate) are generally allowed.

Official source

Bahamas Customs and Excise Department

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