Peru customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Peru allows duty-free imports up to USD 800 for personal goods, including 1 liter of alcoholic beverages and 400 cigarettes. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Strict bans apply to narcotics, certain meats, and cultural artifacts.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of alcoholic beverages (spirits, wine, or beer) for travelers 18+.
Tobacco
400 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Cash or monetary instruments over USD 10,000 (or equivalent in PEN) must be declared on the Single Customs Declaration (DUA) form.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 (or equivalent in PEN) are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to 20% duty plus 18% VAT.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with medical prescription and prior authorization)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (unless authorized by SUCAMEC)
  • Cultural heritage items (pre-Columbian artifacts, archaeological pieces) without export permit from Ministry of Culture
  • Endangered species products (CITES-listed items) without permit
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated materials
  • Certain meats (pork, poultry) from countries with active disease outbreaks (e.g., African swine fever, avian flu)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (require prescription and prior authorization from DIGEMID)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require phytosanitary certificate from SENASA)
  • Drones (must be registered with the Ministry of Transport and Communications; may require prior authorization)
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters (require authorization from the Ministry of Transport and Communications)
  • Pets (dogs and cats) require rabies vaccination certificate and health certificate from origin country

Rules worth knowing

Used clothing and shoes

Used clothing and shoes are generally prohibited unless they are personal items in reasonable quantities. Commercial imports of used clothing are banned.

Peruvian products returning

Peruvian products (e.g., alpaca wool, pisco) purchased abroad and brought back may be subject to duties if they exceed the personal allowance. Keep receipts.

Valuables over USD 800

If you bring a single item worth over USD 800 (e.g., a laptop, camera, or jewelry), you must declare it and may pay duty on the full value, not just the excess.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but only processed, sealed commercial food. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy are restricted and may require inspection or be prohibited. Declare all food on the customs form.
You can bring up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent in PEN) without declaring. Any amount over that must be declared on the Single Customs Declaration form.
If the item is for personal use and valued under USD 800, no declaration is needed. If it's worth more than USD 800, you should declare it to avoid issues on departure.
Yes, for a maximum of 30 days' supply. If it contains controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam), you need a doctor's prescription and prior authorization from DIGEMID.
You must pay 20% duty plus 18% VAT on the value exceeding USD 800. For example, if goods are worth USD 1,000, duty applies to USD 200.
You can bring 1 liter of alcoholic beverages duty-free if you are 18 or older. Any additional alcohol is subject to duty and taxes.

Official source

Superintendencia Nacional de Aduanas y de Administración Tributaria (SUNAT)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Superintendencia Nacional de Aduanas y de Administración Tributaria (SUNAT) before travelling.