Brazil customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Brazil's duty-free allowance for arriving adult travellers in 2026 is USD 800 in goods, plus specific alcohol and tobacco limits. Cash or equivalent over USD 10,000 must be declared. Strict prohibitions apply to narcotics, certain meats, and unlicensed firearms.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
12.0 L
12 litres of alcoholic beverages (any type). Traveller must be 18+.
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) must be declared on the electronic arrival declaration (e-DDV).
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 (retail value) are duty-free. Items exceeding this limit are subject to 50% import duty on the excess value.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and illegal drugs
  • Fresh, frozen, or processed meat products (including beef, pork, poultry) without official certification
  • Firearms and ammunition without prior authorisation from the Brazilian Army
  • Endangered species products (e.g., jaguar pelts, turtle shells, certain tropical wood) without CITES permit
  • Counterfeit or pirated goods
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use: require a medical prescription (in Portuguese or English) for controlled substances; limit to 3 months' supply
  • Plants, seeds, and live animals: require phytosanitary certificate and prior authorisation from Ministry of Agriculture
  • Drones and radio transmitters: require ANATEL (telecom agency) approval and registration
  • Satellite phones: require prior authorisation from ANATEL
  • Cultural heritage items (e.g., antiques, artworks over 100 years old): require export licence from IPHAN

Rules worth knowing

Electronic Arrival Declaration (e-DDV)

All arriving travellers must complete an electronic declaration (e-DDV) before passing through customs. This replaces the old paper form. Failure to declare correctly can result in fines.

Duty-Free Shop Purchases

Goods bought at airport duty-free shops in Brazil count toward the USD 800 allowance. If you exceed the limit, duty is charged on the entire excess amount.

Used Personal Items

Used personal items (clothing, jewellery, electronics) are generally exempt from duty if they are clearly for personal use and not for resale. However, customs officers may assess value if items appear new or excessive.

Currency Declaration

Carrying BRL (Brazilian Real) equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. There is no limit on the amount you can bring in, but failure to declare can lead to seizure and fines.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, if they are clearly for personal use and not new in box. Customs officers may ask for proof of ownership (e.g., receipt or travel history). If they appear new, they may count toward the USD 800 allowance.
You pay 50% import duty on the value above USD 800. For example, if your goods are valued at USD 1,000, duty is 50% of USD 200 = USD 100.
Yes, but only if they are commercially packaged and for personal consumption. Fresh meat, fruits, and vegetables are prohibited. Dairy products are generally allowed in small quantities.
Yes, if it contains controlled substances (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines). Carry a doctor's prescription in Portuguese or English, and keep medicines in original packaging. Limit to 3 months' supply.
No limit, but amounts equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. You can bring any amount, but undeclared amounts above the threshold may be confiscated.
Yes, but it must be registered with ANATEL and the drone registration system (SISANT). You may need to show proof of registration at customs. Drones over 250g require a licence.

Official source

Brazilian Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Brazilian Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal) before travelling.