Honduras customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Honduras allows duty-free imports up to USD 800 in personal goods, including 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco). Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Narcotics and certain agricultural products are strictly prohibited. These rules apply in 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol

1.0 L

1 liter of alcoholic beverages over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes

or 50 cigars / 250 g

Cash to declare

$10,000

Amounts of USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the customs form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.

Goods duty-free

$800

Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 (or equivalent in HNL) are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to duties and taxes.

Prohibited — banned from import

Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with medical prescription and prior authorization)
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (without special permit from the Ministry of Defense)
Counterfeit currency and goods infringing intellectual property rights
Plants, seeds, soil, and fresh fruits/vegetables without phytosanitary certificate
Pornographic materials (as defined by Honduran law)
Used clothing and shoes (unless for personal use and in reasonable quantities)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

Medicines containing controlled substances (require a doctor's prescription and prior approval from the Ministry of Health)
Pets (dogs, cats) require a health certificate and rabies vaccination proof, issued within 10 days of travel
Drones and radio communication equipment require prior authorization from the Honduran telecommunications regulator (CONATEL)
Cultural artifacts and antiques require an export permit from the Honduran Institute of Anthropology and History (IHAH)
Commercial samples and goods for trade must be declared and may require an import license

Rules worth knowing

Temporary Import for Vehicles

Non-residents can bring a vehicle for up to 90 days without paying duty, but must obtain a temporary import permit at the border. A refundable deposit or bond may be required.

Agricultural Inspection

All arriving passengers must pass through agricultural inspection (SAG). Failure to declare food items can result in fines of up to USD 500.

Duty-Free Shop Purchases

Items bought at duty-free shops outside Honduras are included in the USD 800 personal allowance. If total exceeds USD 800, duty applies on the excess.

Currency Declaration Form

Cash declarations must be made on the official customs form (Declaración de Equipaje). Electronic funds transfers are not subject to this limit.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, personal electronics like laptops, cameras, and smartphones are considered personal effects and are duty-free as long as they are for your own use and not for resale. They count toward the USD 800 total allowance if new or high-value.

You must pay duties and taxes on the excess value. The duty rate varies by item, typically 15-30% plus 15% VAT (ISV). You can pay at the customs counter in HNL or USD.

Yes, if they contain controlled substances (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines). Carry a doctor's prescription and keep medicines in original packaging. Non-controlled meds for personal use are generally fine without declaration.

Processed, sealed food items for personal consumption are usually allowed, but fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products are restricted or prohibited. Declare all food at the agricultural inspection point.

There is no specific limit on Honduran lempiras, but any amount equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. Large sums may raise questions about money laundering.

Transit passengers staying in the international zone of the airport generally do not go through customs. If you leave the transit area, you must clear customs and follow all rules.

Official source

Dirección Ejecutiva de Ingresos (DEI) - Customs Division