Dominica customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Travellers arriving in Dominica in 2026 may bring duty-free goods worth up to XCD 540 (approx. USD 200), including 1 litre of spirits and 200 cigarettes. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Narcotics, unlicensed firearms, and certain agricultural products are strictly banned.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 litres of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18 years or older.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount of cash or monetary instruments equal to or exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form upon arrival.
Goods duty-free
$200
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts is XCD 540 (approx. USD 200) for non-residents. Goods exceeding this value are subject to duty and taxes.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with a prescription for personal medical use and prior approval)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a valid licence from the Commissioner of Police
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Pornographic materials
  • Certain agricultural products (e.g., fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy) without a phytosanitary certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (require a prescription and a letter from a doctor, plus prior approval from the Ministry of Health)
  • Pets (dogs, cats) require an import permit, up-to-date vaccination records, and a health certificate issued within 14 days of travel
  • Plants, seeds, and soil require a phytosanitary certificate and an import permit from the Dominica Ministry of Agriculture
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles require prior approval from the Dominica Civil Aviation Authority
  • Satellite phones require a licence from the Ministry of Telecommunications

Rules worth knowing

Duty-Free Allowance is Low

The duty-free allowance for non-residents is only XCD 540 (approx. USD 200) for personal goods. Any single item valued above this threshold is fully dutiable, not just the excess. Plan accordingly.

Agricultural Inspection

All arriving passengers must declare any food, plants, or animal products. Failure to declare can result in fines and confiscation. Dominica is strict about preventing the introduction of pests and diseases.

Currency Declaration

Cash declarations are mandatory for amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent). Use the Customs Declaration Form (CDF) provided on the aircraft or at the airport. Non-declaration can lead to seizure and penalties.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can bring in additional alcohol, but you must declare it and pay customs duty and taxes on the excess. The duty-free allowance is 1 litre of spirits or 2 litres of wine/beer per adult.
If the total value of your goods exceeds XCD 540 (USD 200), you must pay duty on the full value of the goods, not just the excess. Duty rates vary by item, typically 20-30% plus 15% VAT.
Yes, you should declare all medications. For controlled drugs (e.g., opioids, sedatives), you need a valid prescription and a doctor's letter. It's best to carry them in original packaging and have prior approval from the Ministry of Health.
No, fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products are generally prohibited without a phytosanitary certificate and import permit. Processed and packaged foods are usually allowed if declared.
There is no limit on the amount of cash you can bring, but any amount equal to or exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and fines.
Yes, but you must obtain prior approval from the Dominica Civil Aviation Authority. Drones are restricted and may require a temporary import permit. Contact the authority at least two weeks before travel.

Official source

Dominica Customs and Excise Division

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