Romania customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Entering Romania in 2026: duty-free allowances follow standard EU rules — 1L spirits, 200 cigarettes, goods up to €430 for air travelers. Cash over €10,000 must be declared. Strict bans on narcotics and certain meats from non-EU countries.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1L of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2L of spirits under 22% (including sparkling wine), OR a proportional combination; plus 4L of still wine and 16L of beer. Traveler must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,800
Any amount equivalent to €10,000 or more (approx. USD 10,800) in cash, travelers cheques, or negotiable instruments must be declared in writing at customs. Use the standard EU cash declaration form.
Goods duty-free
$460
Duty-free allowance for goods (gifts, personal items) is €430 (approx. USD 460) for air travelers; €300 for other modes. Above that, duty and VAT apply.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with medical prescription and permit)
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed) without a permit
  • Counterfeit goods, including fake branded items and pirated media
  • Certain meats and dairy from non-EU countries (e.g., raw milk, fresh meat) without veterinary checks
  • Weapons, ammunition, and explosives without a special license
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, morphine) – require a doctor's prescription and a personal use declaration
  • Plants, seeds, and soil – must be declared and may require a phytosanitary certificate
  • Pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) – must have a valid EU pet passport, microchip, and rabies vaccination
  • Cultural goods (antiques, artworks over 100 years old) – require an export permit from the Romanian Ministry of Culture
  • Drones – must be registered with the Romanian Civil Aviation Authority; import may require additional permits

Rules worth knowing

EU Duty-Free Limits for Non-EU Travelers

If you arrive from a non-EU country, the duty-free allowance for goods is €430 (air) or €300 (land/sea). For EU arrivals, goods are generally duty-free if for personal use, but quantities above indicative thresholds (e.g., 800 cigarettes, 90L wine) may be challenged.

Cash Declaration Threshold in RON

The cash declaration threshold is €10,000 (approx. 49,700 RON at 2026 rates). Any amount in cash, travelers cheques, or bearer negotiable instruments at or above this must be declared. Failure can result in seizure and fines.

Tobacco and Alcohol Age Limit

You must be at least 18 years old to import duty-free tobacco and alcohol. Customs officers may ask for ID.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Non-residents can bring a private vehicle into Romania for up to 6 months without paying duty, provided it is not sold or lent. A Carnet de Passages is recommended for high-value vehicles.

Frequently asked questions

You can bring 1L of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2L of spirits under 22% (including sparkling wine), plus 4L of still wine and 16L of beer. You must be 18+.
You must declare any cash or equivalent (travelers cheques, money orders) equal to or exceeding €10,000 (approx. 49,700 RON or USD 10,800). Use the EU cash declaration form at customs.
Generally no. Fresh meat, milk, and dairy products from non-EU countries are prohibited unless they meet strict EU veterinary requirements. Small quantities of powdered infant formula or special medical foods may be allowed.
Only if it contains controlled substances (e.g., codeine, morphine, certain sleeping pills). Carry a doctor's prescription and a personal use declaration. For regular over-the-counter meds, no declaration is needed.
For air travelers arriving from outside the EU, personal goods up to €430 (approx. USD 460) are duty-free. For land or sea arrivals, the limit is €300. Above that, you pay customs duty and 19% VAT.
Yes, but only dogs, cats, and ferrets. They need an EU pet passport, a microchip (ISO 11784/11785), and a valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days old). For non-EU countries, a rabies antibody test is required.

Official source

Romanian Customs Authority (Autoritatea Vamală Română)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Romanian Customs Authority (Autoritatea Vamală Română) before travelling.