Macau customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Macau allows non-resident adults (18+) to bring 1L of spirits (over 22% vol) or 2L of wine/beer, and 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco duty-free. Cash or bearer instruments over MOP 80,000 (≈USD 10,000) must be declared. Strict bans on narcotics, counterfeit goods, and unapproved meat. Updated for 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1L of spirits with alcohol content over 22% vol, OR 2L of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Cash or bearer negotiable instruments exceeding MOP 80,000 (≈USD 10,000) must be declared to the Macau Customs Service upon arrival.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to MOP 6,400 (≈USD 800) duty-free. Above that, standard duty rates apply.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with a valid prescription for personal medical use, pre-approved)
  • Counterfeit currency, coins, and goods (including fake branded items)
  • Uncanned meat and poultry products from regions with animal disease outbreaks (e.g., avian flu zones)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (including pepper spray and tasers without a permit)
  • Endangered species and their derivatives (CITES-listed items, e.g., ivory, rhino horn)
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam) – require a doctor's prescription and advance notification to the Health Bureau
  • Plants, seeds, and soil – require an import permit from the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM)
  • Drones (unmanned aircraft) – require registration and a permit from the Macau Civil Aviation Authority
  • Satellite phones and cryptographic equipment – require a license from the Macau Telecommunications Bureau
  • Live animals (pets) – require a health certificate, rabies vaccination, and import license from IAM

Rules worth knowing

Duty-Free Only for Non-Residents

The standard duty-free allowances (1L spirits, 200 cigarettes, MOP 6,400 goods) apply only to non-resident travellers arriving from abroad. Residents have lower or no duty-free allowances and must declare all goods exceeding MOP 3,000.

Macau-Mainland China Border Crossings

Travellers entering Macau from mainland China (e.g., via Zhuhai) are subject to the same customs rules, but the duty-free goods limit for personal use is MOP 3,000 (≈USD 375) for non-residents crossing the land border.

Strict Enforcement on Counterfeit Goods

Macau Customs actively targets counterfeit luxury goods (bags, watches, electronics). Even single items for personal use can be seized, and fines up to MOP 50,000 apply. Declare any branded items if unsure.

Tobacco and Alcohol Age Limit

The legal age to purchase and import tobacco or alcohol is 18. Minors found carrying these items will have them confiscated and may face a fine.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, if you pass through customs (i.e., leave the transit area), you are treated as an arriving traveller and can use the duty-free allowances. If you stay airside, no customs clearance occurs.
You must declare the excess on the arrival form. Duty is calculated at 5% to 20% ad valorem depending on the item category. Failure to declare can result in seizure and a fine of up to MOP 10,000.
No, personal electronics for your own use (laptop, camera, phone) are generally exempt from duty as long as they are not new in box or multiple units. Customs may ask you to prove they are for personal use.
Yes, for personal use up to a 30-day supply, with a doctor's prescription in English or Chinese. Controlled substances (e.g., sleeping pills, strong painkillers) require prior approval from the Macau Health Bureau.
Yes, any amount equivalent to MOP 80,000 (≈USD 10,000) or more must be declared. This includes cash, traveler's cheques, and bearer bonds. No limit on the amount you can bring, but undeclared amounts can be confiscated.
Yes, commercially packaged, shelf-stable food items (chocolate, cheese, biscuits) are allowed in reasonable quantities for personal use. Fresh meat, fruits, and vegetables are restricted and may require inspection.

Official source

Macau Customs Service (Serviços de Alfândega de Macau)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Macau Customs Service (Serviços de Alfândega de Macau) before travelling.