Paraguay customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Paraguay allows non-resident adults arriving from abroad to bring in up to USD 800 in duty-free goods, including 1 liter of alcoholic beverages over 22% ABV (or 2 liters of wine or beer) and a combined tobacco allowance of 200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco. Cash amounts equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. Narcotics and unregistered firearms are strictly prohibited.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of alcoholic beverages 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
Any amount equivalent to USD 10,000 or more (in any currency) must be declared on the customs declaration form upon arrival.
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 import duties and taxes.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with a medical prescription and prior authorization from the National Directorate of Health Surveillance - DINAVISA)
  • Firearms and ammunition without a permit from the National Directorate of War Materials (DIMABEL)
  • Explosives, fireworks, and pyrotechnic devices without special authorization from the Ministry of National Defense
  • Pornographic material (including digital media) that violates national laws on public morality
  • Endangered species and products made from them (CITES-listed) without proper permits
  • Counterfeit currency, goods infringing intellectual property rights

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use: must be accompanied by a medical prescription; quantities exceeding 3 months' supply require prior authorization from DINAVISA
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products: require a phytosanitary certificate from the National Service of Plant and Seed Quality (SENAVE)
  • Animals and animal products: require a veterinary certificate from the National Service of Animal Quality and Health (SENACSA)
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles: must be registered with the National Civil Aviation Authority (DINAC) and may require a temporary import permit
  • Satellite phones and radio communication equipment: require authorization from the National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL)

Rules worth knowing

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Foreign-registered vehicles may be temporarily imported for up to 90 days without a bond, provided the traveller presents the vehicle's registration and proof of insurance. Overstaying may result in seizure and fines of up to 50% of the vehicle's value.

Agricultural Inspection

All arriving passengers must pass through an agricultural inspection (SENAVE/SENACSA) for any food, plants, or animal products. Failure to declare prohibited agricultural items can lead to fines of up to USD 5,000 and confiscation of goods.

Currency Declaration Form

The customs declaration form (Declaración Jurada de Equipaje) must be completed and submitted upon arrival. It is available in Spanish and English. Keep a copy until departure. Failure to declare cash over USD 10,000 can result in seizure and penalties.

Duty-Free Shops at Silvio Pettirossi Airport

Duty-free purchases made at the airport are included in the USD 800 personal allowance. Any excess is subject to duty at rates of 10% to 30%.

Frequently asked questions

You may bring in 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/beer, plus 200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco. The combined tobacco allowance cannot exceed the equivalent of 250g. You must be 18 or older.
You can bring up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) without declaring. Any amount equal to or greater than USD 10,000 must be declared on the customs form. Failure to declare can lead to seizure and fines.
Personal electronics for your own use (laptop, camera, smartphone) are generally allowed duty-free as part of your personal baggage. However, if you bring multiple units of the same item (e.g., more than 2), customs may consider them commercial goods and charge duty of 10% to 30%.
Yes, but all food products must be declared at the agricultural inspection. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products are subject to strict controls and may require permits. Processed and packaged foods for personal consumption (up to 5 kg) are usually allowed in small quantities.
You must pay import duties and taxes on the excess value. Duties vary by product category but typically range from 10% to 30% of the declared value. You can pay at the customs office at the airport using cash or credit card.
Yes, you should declare any prescription medications. Carry the original prescription and keep medicines in their original packaging. For quantities exceeding a 3-month supply, you need prior authorization from DINAVISA. Controlled substances require additional permits.

Official source

National Customs Directorate of Paraguay (Dirección Nacional de Aduanas)

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