Burkina Faso permits duty-free import of 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/beer, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco (no combination), and personal goods up to 80,000 XOF (approx. USD 130). Cash over 1,000,000 XOF (approx. USD 1,600) must be declared; amounts over USD 10,000 equivalent require prior authorization from the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO). Narcotics, counterfeit goods, and unlicensed firearms are strictly prohibited. Travelers must be 18+ for alcohol and tobacco.
Duty-free allowances
Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine/beer. Must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$1,600
Any amount over 1,000,000 XOF (approx. USD 1,600) must be declared on the customs form. Amounts over 10,000 USD equivalent require prior authorization from the BCEAO.
Goods duty-free
$130
Personal goods and gifts up to 80,000 XOF (approx. USD 130) duty-free. Above that, duty is assessed at 20-30%.
Prohibited — banned from import
Narcotics and psychotropic substances
Counterfeit currency and goods
Firearms and ammunition without prior authorization
Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
Pornographic materials
Endangered species and products (CITES)
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
Medicines: require a prescription or import permit for quantities exceeding 3 months' supply
Plants and seeds: require phytosanitary certificate
Drones: require prior authorization from the Ministry of Transport
Satellite phones: require a license from the telecommunications regulator (ARCEP)
Cultural artifacts: require export permit from the Ministry of Culture
Rules worth knowing
Temporary import of vehicles
Non-residents may import a vehicle duty-free for up to 6 months. A carnet de passage is recommended. After 6 months, duty is payable.
Gold and precious metals
Import of gold bars or coins over 500g requires a declaration and proof of origin. Failure to declare can result in seizure.
Food products
Meat and dairy products from outside the WAEMU zone require a veterinary certificate. Commercial quantities are prohibited without an import license.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, personal electronics like laptops, cameras, and phones are considered personal effects and are duty-free as long as they are for personal use and not for resale.
You must pay customs duty on the excess value. Duty rates vary by item, typically 20-30% of the value. You can pay at the customs office at the airport or border post.
No, amounts under 1,000,000 XOF (about USD 1,600) do not need to be declared. However, if you are carrying more than 10,000 USD equivalent, you need prior authorization from the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO).
Yes, for personal use up to 3 months' supply. If the product contains controlled substances (e.g., codeine), you need a prescription. Larger quantities require an import permit from the Ministry of Health.
Yes, the duty-free limit is 1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, or 2 liters of wine or beer. If you bring more, duty is charged on the excess. You must be 18 or older.
Yes, but you need a valid rabies vaccination certificate and an international health certificate issued by a veterinarian within 10 days of travel. Dogs and cats must be microchipped. No quarantine is required if documents are in order.
For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Direction Générale des Douanes du Burkina Faso before travelling.