Equatorial Guinea customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Equatorial Guinea's customs rules for 2026: duty-free allowances are 200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco (mixing not allowed), and 1 liter of alcohol (spirits over 22% ABV, or 2 liters of wine/beer) for travelers 18+. Cash over 10,000 USD (or equivalent in XAF) must be declared. Personal goods up to 800 USD duty-free; excess taxed up to 30%. Narcotics, unlicensed firearms, counterfeit goods, and plastic bags are banned. Vehicles can be temporarily imported for 3 months with a carnet. Source: General Directorate of Customs.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Traveler must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount equivalent to 10,000 USD or more (in XAF or any currency) must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines up to 50% of the undeclared amount.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to a total value of 800 USD (approx. 480,000 XAF) are duty-free. Items above this value are subject to customs duty at rates up to 30%.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, cocaine, heroin)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without prior authorization from the Ministry of Defense
  • Counterfeit currency and goods infringing intellectual property rights
  • Pornographic materials (including digital media)
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
  • Endangered species and products derived from them (e.g., ivory, rhino horn)
  • Plastic bags (including for packaging)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing narcotic or psychotropic ingredients (requires a prescription and prior approval from the Ministry of Health)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require a phytosanitary certificate)
  • Animals and animal products (require a veterinary certificate and import permit)
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters (require a license from the telecommunications authority)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require an export permit from the Ministry of Culture)

Rules worth knowing

Currency Declaration

All travelers entering or leaving Equatorial Guinea must declare any amount of cash (XAF or foreign currency) exceeding 10,000 USD or equivalent. The declaration is made on the customs form. Non-compliance can lead to confiscation and a fine of up to 50% of the undeclared amount.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Vehicles brought in for personal use (e.g., carnet de passages) are allowed for up to 3 months without duty, but must be re-exported. Overstaying results in seizure and duty payment. A bond may be required.

Prohibition on Plastic Bags

The import of plastic bags (including for packaging) is banned. Travelers should avoid bringing any plastic bags in luggage, as they may be confiscated at customs.

Duty-Free Shop Purchases

Items bought at duty-free shops outside Equatorial Guinea are subject to the same personal allowances. Any excess must be declared and duty paid. Receipts should be kept.

Frequently asked questions

No. The duty-free allowance for alcohol and tobacco applies only to travelers aged 18 and over. Minors cannot import these items duty-free.
You must declare the total value of goods. Duty is charged on the amount exceeding 800 USD at rates typically between 10% and 30%, depending on the item. Customs officers may assess the value.
Personal electronics like laptops and cameras for personal use are generally allowed duty-free as part of your personal effects. However, if you have multiple units (e.g., more than one laptop), customs may consider them commercial and require duty payment.
Small quantities of processed food for personal consumption (e.g., chocolate, cheese) are usually allowed. However, fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products are restricted and may require inspection or be prohibited. Declare all food items.
There is no specific limit on XAF, but any amount equivalent to 10,000 USD or more must be declared. Equatorial Guinea is part of the CEMAC zone, and large sums may raise questions about money laundering.
Carry a doctor's prescription and keep medicines in original packaging. For medications containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, morphine), obtain prior authorization from the Ministry of Health. Failure to do so may result in confiscation and legal issues.

Official source

General Directorate of Customs (Dirección General de Aduanas)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with General Directorate of Customs (Dirección General de Aduanas) before travelling.