Palau customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Palau strictly prohibits the import of firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a permit from the Bureau of Public Safety. Duty-free allowances for alcohol and tobacco are generous: up to 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine/beer, and 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco. All goods over USD 800 in value are subject to duty. Cash amounts of USD 10,000 or more must be declared on arrival. 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 21 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 foreign currency) must be declared on the Palau arrival form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to a total value of USD 800 are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to duty at rates determined by the Palau Bureau of Revenue and Taxation.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without a permit from the Palau Bureau of Public Safety
  • Illegal narcotics and controlled substances (including marijuana, even for medical use without prior approval)
  • Pornographic materials and obscene publications
  • Products made from endangered species (e.g., turtle shell, coral, certain shells) without CITES permits
  • Live animals without a quarantine permit from the Palau Ministry of Agriculture
  • Soil, sand, or any earth materials without a permit (to protect against invasive species)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances: require a prescription or doctor's note for quantities exceeding a 30-day supply
  • Plants, seeds, and fresh produce: require an import permit from the Palau Ministry of Agriculture and must be declared
  • Drones (unmanned aerial vehicles): require prior approval from the Palau Bureau of Aviation and must be registered on arrival
  • Satellite phones and two-way radios: require a permit from the Palau National Communications Corporation
  • Cultural artifacts or antiques: require an export permit from the Palau Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs if leaving Palau, and import may be restricted

Rules worth knowing

Biosecurity Declaration Required

All arriving travellers must complete a biosecurity declaration form. Failure to declare food, plants, or animal products can result in a fine of up to USD 1,000. Palau is serious about protecting its unique ecosystem.

No Duty-Free Shops on Arrival

Palau does not have duty-free shops in the arrival area. Any duty-free purchases must be made at your departure airport and declared on arrival if they exceed the personal allowance.

Strict Coral and Shell Export Ban

It is illegal to export any coral (dead or alive), sea turtle products, or giant clam shells without a permit. Even small souvenirs made from these materials will be confiscated at departure.

Tobacco and Alcohol Age Limit

The legal age to purchase and import alcohol and tobacco products in Palau is 21. Minors found with these items will have them confiscated and may face fines.

Frequently asked questions

No. Marijuana is illegal in Palau, even for medical purposes. Possession can lead to arrest and imprisonment. Do not attempt to bring any cannabis products.
You can bring up to USD 9,999 without declaring. Any amount of USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the arrival form.
No. Fresh produce, seeds, and plants are strictly regulated. You must declare them and have a valid import permit from the Palau Ministry of Agriculture. Without a permit, they will be confiscated and destroyed.
Personal electronics for your own use are generally allowed duty-free. However, if you bring multiple units (e.g., 5 smartphones), customs may consider them commercial goods and charge duty. Drones require prior approval.
You must declare the excess on your arrival form. Customs will assess duty on the overage. If you fail to declare, you risk confiscation and a fine of up to USD 500.
Yes, but only with an import permit from the Palau Ministry of Agriculture, a valid rabies vaccination certificate, and a health certificate issued within 14 days of travel. Pets must be declared and may be subject to quarantine.

Official source

Palau Bureau of Revenue and Taxation

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Palau Bureau of Revenue and Taxation before travelling.