Cuba customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Cuba allows non-residents duty-free imports of 1 liter of alcohol (spirits over 22% ABV or 2 liters of wine/beer), 200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco (choose one, no mixing), and personal goods up to USD 800. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Prohibited items include narcotics, unlicensed medicines, and certain meats. Restricted items like drones and medicines require permits.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer. 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 Customs Declaration Form (DUA) upon arrival.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 in total value are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to duty at the rate of 30% on the excess amount.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, cocaine, heroin)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (without prior authorization from the Ministry of the Interior)
  • Pornographic material (including digital files)
  • Meat and meat products (fresh, frozen, or processed) from countries with animal disease outbreaks (e.g., African swine fever)
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated products

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use: must be accompanied by a prescription or medical certificate; limited to a 30-day supply
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products: require a phytosanitary certificate from the National Center for Plant Health
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles: require prior authorization from the Cuban Civil Aviation Institute
  • Satellite phones and GPS devices with encryption: require a permit from the Ministry of Communications
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques: require an export permit from the National Heritage Council

Rules worth knowing

Cuban Cigars for Export

Non-residents may purchase Cuban cigars from authorized shops (e.g., Casa del Habano) for export. Keep the official receipt; customs may ask to see it. There is no limit on the number of cigars exported if purchased legally, but you must declare them.

Currency Declaration

All travellers must declare any currency, traveler's checks, or negotiable instruments exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent) on the DUA. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and fines.

Prohibition on Importing Cuban Peso (CUP)

Non-residents are prohibited from importing Cuban pesos. Any CUP found will be confiscated. Exchange foreign currency only at official exchange houses (CADECA) or banks.

Medicines and Medical Equipment

Travellers bringing medicines for personal use must carry a prescription or doctor's note. For controlled substances, a prior import permit from the Cuban Ministry of Public Health is required.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can bring up to 50 cigars duty-free as part of your personal allowance. If you buy more from authorized shops, you must declare them and may pay duty on the excess. Always keep your receipts.
No, personal electronics like laptops and cameras for your own use do not need to be declared. However, if you are carrying multiple units (e.g., 3+ laptops), customs may treat them as commercial goods and require duty payment.
You will pay a flat 30% duty on the value exceeding USD 800. For example, if your goods are valued at USD 1,000, you pay duty on USD 200 (30% = USD 60).
Yes, packaged food for personal consumption is generally allowed. However, fresh meat, fruits, and vegetables are prohibited. Coffee and chocolate are fine in reasonable quantities.
There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring in, but any amount over USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form. Undeclared amounts can be confiscated.
Drones are restricted. You must obtain prior authorization from the Cuban Civil Aviation Institute (IACC). Without it, your drone will be confiscated at customs. Apply at least 30 days before travel.

Official source

Aduana General de la República de Cuba (General Customs of the Republic of Cuba)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Aduana General de la República de Cuba (General Customs of the Republic of Cuba) before travelling.