Eswatini customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Eswatini allows duty-free imports of 1 liter of spirits (or 2 liters of wine/beer), 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco), and personal goods up to SZL 2,000 (approx. USD 110) for non-resident adults aged 18+. Cash equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. Strict bans on narcotics, unprocessed game meat, and other items apply. Residents face currency export limits.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% alcohol, OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Must be 18 or older. Combined allowance not permitted; choose one.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties. Non-residents may export up to the amount declared on arrival.
Goods duty-free
$110
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts is SZL 2,000 (approx. USD 110). Items above this value are subject to duty and VAT.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, heroin, cocaine)
  • Firearms and ammunition without a permit from the Royal Eswatini Police
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Pornographic materials
  • Unprocessed game meat and certain animal products without veterinary clearance
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (require a prescription and prior approval from the Ministry of Health)
  • Plants, seeds, and live animals (require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture)
  • Drones and unmanned aircraft (require a permit from the Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority)
  • Satellite phones and two-way radios (require a license from the Eswatini Communications Commission)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require an export permit from the Eswatini National Trust Commission)

Rules worth knowing

Temporary import of vehicles

A carnet de passage is required for temporary import of a vehicle. Without it, you must pay a refundable deposit equal to the vehicle's duty and taxes.

Currency restrictions for residents

Residents may not export more than SZL 5,000 without central bank approval. Non-residents can export up to the amount they declared on arrival.

Duty-free shops at border posts

Duty-free purchases at land borders (e.g., Oshoek/Ngwenya) are limited to SZL 3,000 per person per day. Keep receipts for inspection.

Gifts and samples

Commercial samples and gifts valued over SZL 2,000 are dutiable. You must declare them and may need a temporary import bond.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but only if the total alcohol does not exceed 1 liter of spirits (e.g., whiskey) OR 2 liters of wine. You cannot bring both full allowances.
If they are for personal use and valued under SZL 2,000 total, no. If over that, declare them to avoid duty on departure. You may be asked to register them on a temporary import form.
The excess is subject to duty and VAT. You must declare them on the arrival form. Failure to declare can result in a fine or confiscation.
Yes, for up to 30 days' supply. Carry a doctor's prescription or letter. For controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam), you need prior approval from the Ministry of Health.
No limit on entry, but amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared. For exit, non-residents can take out up to the amount declared on arrival.
Yes, for personal consumption. Avoid fresh meat, dairy, or unprocessed animal products without a permit. Sealed commercial packages are fine.

Official source

Eswatini Revenue Authority – Customs and Excise

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Eswatini Revenue Authority – Customs and Excise before travelling.