Panama customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Panama permits duty-free imports of personal goods up to USD 800, with strict allowances: 1 liter of spirits (or 2 liters of wine/beer) and a choice among 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Narcotics, certain agricultural products, and counterfeit goods are banned. These rules apply as of 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of alcoholic beverages (spirits over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Cash or monetary instruments exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 in value are duty-free. Items exceeding this total 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 (unless with special permit from the Ministry of Public Security)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated materials
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed) without permits
  • Obscene materials and pornography
  • Agricultural products (fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy) without phytosanitary certification

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use: must be in original packaging with a prescription (Spanish or English) for controlled substances
  • Pets: require a health certificate, rabies vaccination proof, and import permit from the Ministry of Agricultural Development
  • Drones: require registration with the Civil Aviation Authority and prior authorization for import
  • Satellite phones: require a permit from the National Public Services Authority (ASEP)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques: require export permit from the National Institute of Culture (INAC) if leaving Panama

Rules worth knowing

Duty-Free for Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Tocumen International Airport and staying in the transit area are allowed duty-free purchases up to USD 500, but must not exceed the standard alcohol and tobacco limits if entering Panama.

Tobacco and Alcohol Combined Limit

You cannot combine allowances. For example, bringing 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars is not allowed; you must choose one tobacco category. Similarly, alcohol is limited to 1 liter of spirits OR 2 liters of wine/beer.

Currency Declaration at All Ports

Cash declarations apply at all entry points (air, land, sea). Failure to declare amounts over USD 10,000 can result in seizure and fines of up to 50% of the undeclared amount.

Personal Laptop and Camera

Laptops, cameras, and other electronic devices for personal use are generally allowed duty-free, but if you bring multiple units (e.g., 3+ laptops), customs may consider them commercial goods and require duties.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but only up to 3 liters total. The first liter is duty-free; the next 2 liters are subject to duties and taxes. You must declare all alcohol on arrival.
Customs can seize the undeclared amount and impose a fine of up to 50% of the total. You may also face legal penalties under Panama's anti-money laundering laws.
Yes. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products are prohibited without a phytosanitary certificate. Processed and packaged foods (e.g., canned goods, snacks) are generally allowed for personal use, but must be declared.
Yes, for personal use. Keep medicines in original packaging with a prescription in Spanish or English. For controlled substances (e.g., opioids), you need prior authorization from the Ministry of Health.
Yes, all items must be declared. Gifts up to a total value of USD 800 are duty-free. If the total exceeds USD 800, you pay duty on the excess amount.
You must register your drone with the Civil Aviation Authority of Panama (AAC) before arrival. Importing a drone without prior authorization can result in confiscation and fines. Recreational use is allowed in designated areas only.

Official source

National Customs Authority of Panama (Autoridad Nacional de Aduanas)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with National Customs Authority of Panama (Autoridad Nacional de Aduanas) before travelling.