Namibia customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Namibia allows duty-free imports of up to NAD 1,250 (about USD 70) for personal goods, plus 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes for travellers 18+. Strictly prohibited: narcotics, unprocessed meat, and counterfeit goods. Cash over NAD 25,000 (or equivalent USD 10,000) must be declared. These rules apply in 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol

1.0 L

1 liter of spirits (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

Cash amounts exceeding NAD 25,000 (or equivalent in foreign currency, including USD 10,000) must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Goods duty-free

$70

Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts is NAD 1,250 (approximately USD 70). Items above this value are subject to duty and VAT at 15%.

Prohibited — banned from import

Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with a permit for medical use)
Unprocessed meat and meat products from foot-and-mouth disease affected areas (e.g., certain African countries)
Counterfeit goods and pirated materials
Firearms and ammunition without a permit from the Namibian Police
Endangered species and products (CITES-listed) without a permit
Pornographic material (as defined by Namibian law)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

Medicines for personal use: must be in original packaging with a prescription or doctor's letter for controlled substances (e.g., codeine, morphine)
Plants, seeds, and agricultural products: require a phytosanitary certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture
Pets (dogs, cats): require an import permit, rabies vaccination certificate, and health certificate
Drones: require a permit from the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for import and operation
Cultural artifacts and antiques: require an export permit from the National Heritage Council

Rules worth knowing

Temporary import of vehicles

Foreign-registered vehicles can be brought into Namibia for up to 12 months without duty, but you must obtain a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) at the border. A cash deposit or carnet de passage may be required.

Duty-free shop purchases

Duty-free allowances apply to goods bought at airport shops before arrival. If you exceed the NAD 1,250 personal goods limit, duty is charged on the full value, not just the excess.

Currency declaration for residents

Namibian residents leaving or entering with more than NAD 25,000 in cash must declare it. Non-residents are subject to the same threshold for foreign currency.

Frequently asked questions

No. The duty-free alcohol allowance applies only to travellers aged 18 and over. Minors cannot import alcohol duty-free.

You must pay duty and 15% VAT on the full value of the goods, not just the excess. For example, if your goods are worth NAD 2,000, duty is calculated on the entire NAD 2,000.

Personal electronics like laptops and cameras for your own use are generally allowed duty-free as part of your personal effects. However, if they appear new or high-value, customs may ask for proof of ownership (e.g., receipt) to ensure they are not for resale.

Yes, but only if it is commercially packaged and cooked or processed. Raw meat, fresh dairy, and products from foot-and-mouth disease zones are prohibited. Always declare food items.

There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring in, but any amount equivalent to USD 10,000 or more (or NAD 25,000) must be declared on arrival. Failure to declare can lead to confiscation.

Yes, but only with a valid prescription from your doctor. Carry the medication in original packaging and a letter explaining the condition and dosage. Codeine is a controlled substance in Namibia.

Official source

Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) – Customs and Excise