Guyana customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Guyana's duty-free allowance for non-resident adults is GYD 160,000 (approx. USD 800) in personal goods. You must declare cash of USD 10,000 or more. Strictly prohibited: narcotics, firearms without a license, and certain meats. 2026 rules apply.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol

1.0 L

1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Must be 18 or older.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes

or 50 cigars / 250 g

Cash to declare

$10,000

Any amount of USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form upon arrival.

Goods duty-free

$800

Personal goods and gifts up to GYD 160,000 (approx. USD 800) are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to duty and taxes.

Prohibited — banned from import

Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, cocaine, heroin)
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a valid license from the Guyana Police Force
Counterfeit currency and goods
Pornographic materials
Meat and meat products from countries affected by foot-and-mouth disease or other epizootic diseases (check current list)
Endangered species and products (CITES-listed items) without a permit

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

Medicines for personal use (prescription drugs require a doctor's prescription or letter; over-the-counter in original packaging)
Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require a phytosanitary certificate from the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture)
Pets (dogs, cats) require an import permit, rabies vaccination certificate, and health certificate
Drones and unmanned aircraft (require prior approval from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority)
Satellite phones (require a license from the Guyana Telecommunications Agency)

Rules worth knowing

Currency declaration

Any amount of GYD 200,000 or more (approx. USD 960) in local currency must be declared. Foreign currency equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Gold and precious metals

Gold, diamonds, and other precious metals or stones require a declaration and proof of origin. Export of gold is strictly regulated; import for personal use is allowed but must be declared.

Temporary import of vehicles

Vehicles (cars, motorcycles) can be temporarily imported for up to 3 months with a Carnet de Passages or a security deposit. Must be re-exported or face heavy duties.

Duty-free shops at Cheddi Jagan International Airport

Duty-free purchases at the airport are limited to the standard allowances (alcohol, tobacco, perfume, etc.). Keep receipts for inspection.

Frequently asked questions

You can bring 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine/beer, plus 200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco. You must be 18 or older.

You can bring up to USD 9,999 (or equivalent) without declaring. Any amount of USD 10,000 or more must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form. Local currency (GYD) of GYD 200,000 or more must also be declared.

Yes, but meat and meat products from countries with foot-and-mouth disease are prohibited. All food items should be declared. Fruits, vegetables, and seeds require a phytosanitary certificate.

Yes, it is recommended. Carry a doctor's prescription or letter for any controlled substances. Over-the-counter medicines in original packaging are generally fine.

You must pay duty and taxes on the excess value. The duty rate varies by item (typically 10-20% plus VAT). You can pay at the customs counter in GYD or major credit cards.

Yes, but you need prior approval from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). Without it, the drone may be seized. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel.

Official source

Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) – Customs Division