Rwanda customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Rwanda allows duty-free entry of 1 liter of spirits (or 2 liters of wine/beer), 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco), and personal goods up to USD 800. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Narcotics and single-use plastics are strictly prohibited. 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 18 or older.
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 arrival form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to USD 800 (or equivalent in RWF) are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to customs duty at the standard rate.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine)
  • Single-use plastic bags, bottles, and straws (Rwanda has a nationwide ban on non-biodegradable plastics)
  • Firearms and ammunition without prior authorization from the Rwanda National Police
  • Counterfeit currency, goods, and pirated materials
  • Endangered species and products (e.g., ivory, rhino horn, pangolin scales) under CITES
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing narcotics or psychotropic substances (require a prescription and prior approval from the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require a phytosanitary certificate from the Rwanda Agriculture Board)
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (require a permit from the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority)
  • Satellite phones and radio communication equipment (require a license from the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority)
  • Precious metals and gemstones (require a certificate of origin and may be subject to export controls)

Rules worth knowing

Plastic Bag Ban

Rwanda strictly prohibits the import, use, and possession of non-biodegradable plastic bags and single-use plastics. All plastic bags will be confiscated at the border, and fines apply. Use reusable bags or cardboard packaging.

Currency Declaration for RWF

There is no limit on importing Rwandan francs, but any amount exceeding RWF 1,000,000 (approx. USD 800) must be declared. Export of RWF is limited to RWF 100,000 unless authorized.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Foreign-registered vehicles may be temporarily imported for up to 3 months without duty, provided a carnet de passage or a bank guarantee is presented. Extensions require prior approval from Rwanda Revenue Authority.

Duty-Free for Returning Residents

Rwandan residents returning from abroad are entitled to the same duty-free allowances as non-residents, but goods exceeding USD 800 in value are subject to duty. Residents must declare all goods purchased abroad.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but you need a permit from the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA) before arrival. Drones are restricted and must be declared. Unauthorized drones can be confiscated and you may face a fine.
All non-biodegradable plastic bags will be confiscated at the border. You may be fined up to RWF 100,000 (approx. USD 80) for possession. Use cloth bags or cardboard packaging instead.
Personal electronics like laptops and cameras for personal use are generally duty-free and do not need to be declared unless they are new and exceed the USD 800 duty-free allowance. If the total value of all goods exceeds USD 800, duty applies on the excess.
Yes, for personal use with a valid prescription. If the medication contains narcotics or psychotropic substances, you must obtain prior approval from the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority. Carry the prescription and a doctor's note.
Yes, duty-free allowance is 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine or beer. You must be 18 or older. Any amount beyond that is subject to duty and taxes.
You must declare any cash (in any currency) equivalent to USD 10,000 or more. This includes traveler's checks and money orders. Use the customs arrival form to declare. Failure to declare can lead to seizure and penalties.

Official source

Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) - Customs Services

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) - Customs Services before travelling.