Lebanon customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Lebanon permits duty-free entry of 1 liter of spirits (or 2 liters of wine/beer) and 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco) for non-resident adults aged 18+. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Israeli goods or currency are strictly prohibited. Personal effects up to USD 800 are duty-free.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (any strength) OR 2 liters of wine/beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the customs form upon arrival.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to USD 800 duty-free. Items above this value are subject to customs duty at rates up to 30%.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (except with special medical authorization)
  • Israeli goods, currency, or any items bearing Israeli logos or names
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (except with prior permit from Ministry of Interior)
  • Pornographic materials (including digital media)
  • Counterfeit currency or goods
  • Endangered species products (ivory, rhino horn, etc.) without CITES permit

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
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles: require prior approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters: require a license from the Ministry of Telecommunications
  • Antiques and cultural artifacts: require an export permit from the Directorate General of Antiquities (for items leaving Lebanon)

Rules worth knowing

Israeli Boycott Law

Any item of Israeli origin, or bearing Israeli names/logos, is strictly prohibited. This includes goods, currency, and publications. Violation can lead to confiscation and legal penalties.

Currency Declaration

All travellers must declare cash, negotiable instruments, or precious metals exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in LBP or other currencies) on the customs form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Non-residents may bring a vehicle for up to 6 months without duty, provided a Carnet de Passages en Douane is presented. After 6 months, duty applies or the vehicle must be re-exported.

Duty-Free Shop Purchases

Duty-free allowances apply to goods purchased at the airport before arrival. Additional purchases beyond the limits are subject to duty and must be declared.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but any amount over 1 liter of spirits (or 2 liters of wine/beer) is subject to customs duty. You must declare it on the arrival form and pay duty at the customs counter.
No, personal electronics like laptops and cameras for personal use are generally allowed duty-free. However, if you are carrying multiple units (e.g., 3+ phones), customs may consider them commercial and require duty.
If discovered, the cash can be confiscated and you may face a fine of up to 20% of the undeclared amount, plus potential legal proceedings. Always declare amounts over the threshold.
Yes, for personal use. Carry a doctor's prescription or medical certificate. For controlled substances (e.g., opioids), you must have prior approval from the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health. Quantities exceeding 3 months' supply may be questioned.
Yes. Meat and dairy products from countries with foot-and-mouth disease or avian flu are restricted. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and seeds require a phytosanitary certificate. Processed, sealed food for personal consumption is generally allowed.
Drones are restricted. You must obtain prior approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Without a permit, the drone may be confiscated at customs. Contact the DGCA at least 2 weeks before travel.

Official source

Lebanese Customs Administration (Direction des Douanes)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Lebanese Customs Administration (Direction des Douanes) before travelling.