DR Congo customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Travellers arriving in the Democratic Republic of Congo (2026) may bring duty-free: 200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco (no combination), 1 liter of spirits (or 2 liters of wine/beer), and personal goods up to USD 800. Cash or equivalent exceeding USD 10,000 must be declared. Narcotics, counterfeit currency, and unauthorized weapons are strictly prohibited. All travellers must be 18+ for alcohol and tobacco allowances.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol

1.0 L

1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Traveller must be at least 18 years old.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes

or 50 cigars / 250 g

Cash to declare

$10,000

Any amount of cash, traveller's cheques, or negotiable instruments equal to or exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in CDF or other currencies) must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare may result in seizure and fines.

Goods duty-free

$800

Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 in value are duty-free; items above this value are subject to standard customs duties.

Prohibited — banned from import

Narcotics and psychotropic substances
Counterfeit currency and goods
Weapons and explosives without prior authorization
Endangered species and products (CITES-listed)
Pornographic materials
Radioactive materials

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

Medicines: prescription required for psychotropics; limit 3 months' supply for personal use
Firearms and ammunition: prior permit from Ministry of Interior required
Plants and plant products: phytosanitary certificate required
Satellite phones and communication equipment: prior authorization from telecom regulator ARPTC required
Cultural artifacts and antiques: export permit from National Museum required

Rules worth knowing

Currency declaration

All travellers must declare cash, traveller's cheques, or negotiable instruments exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in CDF or other currencies) on the customs arrival form. Non-declaration can lead to seizure and fines.

Temporary import of vehicles

Non-residents may temporarily import a vehicle duty-free for up to 3 months, provided they obtain a carnet de passage en douane or a customs bond. Extensions are possible with approval from customs.

Prohibited food imports

Fresh meat, dairy products, and certain agricultural goods are banned without prior authorization from the Ministry of Agriculture due to disease control. Commercially packaged, shelf-stable items (e.g., canned meat, UHT milk) are generally allowed in small quantities for personal use.

Duty-free shop purchases

Items purchased at duty-free shops outside DR Congo are subject to the same duty-free allowances as those carried from origin. Keep receipts for inspection.

Frequently asked questions

You can bring 1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, or 2 liters of wine or beer. You must be at least 18 years old.

You must declare any amount of cash, traveller's cheques, or negotiable instruments equal to or exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in CDF or other currencies) on the customs arrival form.

Yes, for personal use up to 3 months' supply. Carry a doctor's prescription or medical certificate. Psychotropic substances require prior authorization from the Ministry of Health.

Drones are restricted. You need prior authorization from the Civil Aviation Authority (RVA) and the telecom regulator (ARPTC). Without it, they may be confiscated.

Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 in value are duty-free. Items above that value are subject to customs duty at standard rates.

Fresh meat and dairy products are generally prohibited without prior authorization from the Ministry of Agriculture. Commercially packaged, shelf-stable items like canned meat or UHT milk are usually allowed in small quantities for personal use.

Official source

Direction Générale des Douanes et Accises (DGDA)