Côte d'Ivoire customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Arriving in Côte d'Ivoire, your duty-free allowance is 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco, 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine or beer, and personal goods up to 800 USD (approx. 480,000 XOF). Cash over 10,000 USD (or 6,000,000 XOF) must be declared. Narcotics, counterfeit goods, and unauthorized weapons are strictly prohibited. Restricted items like medicines, plants, and drones require permits.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Must be 18 or older.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount equivalent to or exceeding 10,000 USD (or 6,000,000 XOF) must be declared on the customs arrival form.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to 800 USD (approx. 480,000 XOF) are duty-free. Items above this value are subject to customs duties and VAT (18%).

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Weapons and ammunition without authorization
  • Radioactive materials
  • Endangered species and products (CITES)
  • Pornographic materials

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines (prescription required for controlled drugs; limit to personal use quantity)
  • Plants and plant products (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Animals and animal products (require veterinary inspection and permit)
  • Drones (require prior authorization from the Ministry of Defense)
  • Satellite phones (require approval from the telecommunications regulator)

Rules worth knowing

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Non-residents may temporarily import a vehicle for up to 3 months without duty, provided a carnet de passage en douane or a bank guarantee is presented. Overstay incurs penalties.

Gold and Precious Metals

Import of gold, platinum, or precious stones over 500,000 XOF (approx. 830 USD) must be declared and may require a permit from the Ministry of Mines.

Cultural Goods

Antiques, art, and cultural artifacts require an export certificate from the Ivorian Ministry of Culture. Unauthorized export is illegal.

Frequently asked questions

No. The duty-free alcohol allowance applies only to travellers aged 18 and older. Minors cannot import alcohol duty-free.
You must pay customs duties and VAT (18%) on the value exceeding 800 USD. The duty rate varies by item, typically 10-30%.
Personal electronics for your own use are generally allowed duty-free as part of the 800 USD goods allowance. If the total value exceeds 800 USD, declare them to avoid penalties.
Meat and dairy products are restricted. You need a veterinary certificate and prior import permit. Small quantities for personal consumption may be allowed but are subject to inspection.
There is no limit on importing XOF, but amounts over 6,000,000 XOF (approx. 10,000 USD) must be declared. Export of XOF is limited to 500,000 XOF without authorization.
Undeclared cash over the threshold can be confiscated, and you may face fines up to 50% of the amount or legal prosecution.

Official source

Direction Générale des Douanes de Côte d'Ivoire

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Direction Générale des Douanes de Côte d'Ivoire before travelling.