Guinea-Bissau customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Guinea-Bissau's duty-free allowance for non-resident adult travellers in 2026 is 1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 litres of wine/beer, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco (choose one category), and personal goods up to XOF 500,000 (approx. USD 800). Cash amounts equivalent to USD 10,000 or more in any currency must be declared on arrival. Narcotics, unlicensed firearms, counterfeit currency, and endangered species products are strictly prohibited. Special rules apply to cashew nut exports, currency export limits, and temporary vehicle imports.

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. Combined allowance not permitted.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount equivalent to USD 10,000 or more (in any currency) must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare may result in seizure and penalties.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts up to XOF 500,000 (approx. USD 800). Items exceeding this value are subject to customs duty at rates determined by the Direcção-Geral das Alfândegas.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (except with special medical authorization)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a permit from the Ministry of Interior
  • Counterfeit currency and goods infringing intellectual property rights
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
  • Pornographic materials (including digital media)
  • Endangered species and products derived from them (e.g., ivory, turtle shells) under CITES

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use: require a prescription or doctor's note for quantities exceeding 3 months' supply
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products: require a phytosanitary certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture
  • Pets (dogs, cats): require a valid rabies vaccination certificate and an import permit from the veterinary services
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters: require prior authorization from the National Communications Agency (ANAC)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques: require an export permit from the Institute of National Heritage

Rules worth knowing

Cashew nut export ban for travellers

Guinea-Bissau is a major cashew producer. Travellers are prohibited from exporting cashew nuts in any quantity without a commercial license. Personal consumption amounts (under 1 kg) are generally tolerated, but any larger quantity may be confiscated.

Currency export limit

Non-residents may export up to XOF 500,000 (approx. USD 800) in local currency. Amounts above this require authorization from the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO). Foreign currency export is limited to the amount declared on arrival.

Temporary import of vehicles

Vehicles (cars, motorcycles) may be temporarily imported for up to 3 months without duty, provided a valid international carnet de passage or a customs bond is presented. Extensions require approval from the customs office in Bissau.

Frequently asked questions

Drones are restricted. You must obtain prior authorization from the National Communications Agency (ANAC) and the Civil Aviation Authority. Unauthorized drones may be confiscated at customs.
You will be required to pay customs duty on the excess. Duty rates vary: typically 20-30% of the value. You may also choose to abandon the excess items at customs.
No, normal personal electronics like laptops and cameras for personal use are generally not subject to duty if they are clearly for your own use and not for resale. However, if you bring multiple units (e.g., 3+ phones), customs may treat them as commercial goods.
There is no limit on importing XOF, but amounts equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. Exporting XOF is limited to XOF 500,000 (approx. USD 800) without authorization.
Yes, but only for personal consumption and in small quantities. All food products are subject to inspection. Meat, dairy, and fresh produce may require a sanitary certificate. Dried fish is common but must be properly packaged and declared.
Keep medications in original packaging with a doctor's prescription or medical certificate. For quantities exceeding a 3-month supply, you may need prior approval from the Ministry of Health. Always declare them at customs to avoid issues.

Official source

Direcção-Geral das Alfândegas (General Directorate of Customs) of Guinea-Bissau

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Direcção-Geral das Alfândegas (General Directorate of Customs) of Guinea-Bissau before travelling.