Barbados customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Barbados allows non-residents aged 18+ to import up to 800 BBD (approx. 400 USD) in goods duty-free. Prohibited items include narcotics, unlicensed firearms, and certain meats from disease-affected regions. Cash over 10,000 USD must be declared. Alcohol and tobacco allowances are limited to one option from a set.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine/beer. Must be 18+. Combined allowance not permitted; choose one.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Cash or monetary instruments equivalent to 10,000 USD or more must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts up to 800 BBD (approx. 400 USD). Excess is subject to duty and 17.5% VAT.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with special license)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (without a valid permit from the Commissioner of Police)
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Pornographic materials
  • Certain meats and poultry products (from countries with disease outbreaks, e.g., avian flu)
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed) without permit

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use (prescription required; over 3 months' supply may need approval from Ministry of Health)
  • Plants, fruits, vegetables, and seeds (require phytosanitary certificate and inspection)
  • Pets (dogs, cats) require import permit, vaccination records, and quarantine
  • Drones (require prior approval from the Barbados Civil Aviation Authority)
  • Satellite phones (require a license from the Telecommunications Authority)

Rules worth knowing

Duty-Free Allowance for Residents vs Non-Residents

Non-residents get 800 BBD duty-free; residents returning after 48+ hours abroad get 150 BBD. Keep receipts for goods over 50 BBD.

Agricultural Inspection

All food, plants, and animal products must be declared and inspected by the Barbados Agricultural Health and Food Safety Authority. Failure to declare can result in fines.

Currency Declaration

Cash or monetary instruments over 10,000 USD (or equivalent) must be declared. Non-declaration can lead to seizure and penalties.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Vehicles brought in for tourism (e.g., carnet de passage) require a temporary import permit. Duty-free stay limited to 3 months.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, up to 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/beer duty-free. You must be 18+. Excess is subject to duty.
You can bring up to 10,000 USD (or equivalent) without declaring. Any amount over that must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form.
Yes, all food items must be declared. Meats, dairy, fruits, and vegetables are restricted and may require inspection. Certain meats from countries with disease outbreaks are prohibited.
Yes, but you need prior approval from the Barbados Civil Aviation Authority. Drones are restricted and may be confiscated if not declared.
Non-residents can bring personal goods and gifts up to 800 BBD (about 400 USD) duty-free. Items above that value are subject to duty and 17.5% VAT.
Yes, declare all medications. Carry a doctor's prescription or letter for any controlled substances. Over 3 months' supply may require prior approval from the Ministry of Health.

Official source

Barbados Customs and Excise Department

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