San Marino customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

San Marino is not an EU member but applies a customs union with the EU. For non-resident adults arriving from outside the EU, duty-free allowances are: 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/beer (under 22% ABV); 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of smoking tobacco (choose one category); personal goods up to €430 (approx. USD 470). Cash of €10,000 or more (or equivalent) must be declared. The local currency is the euro.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer (under 22% ABV). Traveller must be 18 or older.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,900
Any amount of €10,000 or more (or equivalent in foreign currency) must be declared to customs upon entry. This includes cash, traveler's cheques, and negotiable instruments.
Goods duty-free
$470
Personal goods and gifts up to a total value of €430 (approx. USD 470) are duty-free for non-residents arriving from outside the EU. Above that, duty and VAT apply. Note: this matches the EU standard for non-EU arrivals.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except for medical use with authorization)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated items
  • Weapons, ammunition, and explosives (including pepper spray and stun guns)
  • Endangered species and products made from them (CITES)
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
  • Pornographic material (including digital media)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (require a prescription and prior authorization from the San Marino health authority)
  • Plants, seeds, and live animals (require phytosanitary certificate and import permit from the San Marino Ministry of Agriculture)
  • Firearms and hunting weapons (require a permit from the San Marino police)
  • Drones and radio equipment (require authorization from the San Marino telecommunications authority)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require an export certificate from the San Marino Ministry of Culture)

Rules worth knowing

EU vs. Non-EU Arrivals

San Marino applies different allowances depending on whether you arrive from an EU country or from outside the EU. The allowances above are for non-EU arrivals. If arriving from an EU country, the duty-free limits are higher: 10L spirits, 90L wine, 110L beer, and unlimited tobacco for personal use (subject to reasonable quantity).

VAT Refund for Non-Residents

Non-resident travellers can claim a refund of VAT (17%) on purchases over €155 in a single store, provided the goods are exported within 3 months. Keep the original receipts and ask the store for a VAT refund form.

Currency Declaration Form

If carrying €10,000 or more, you must fill out a written declaration form (available at customs) before the inspection point. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines up to 50% of the amount.

Frequently asked questions

You may bring 1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer under 22% ABV. You must be 18 or older.
Yes, but anything over 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars, or 250g tobacco) is subject to duty and VAT. You must declare the excess on arrival.
Yes, if you are carrying €10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) in cash, traveler's cheques, or bearer negotiable instruments. Declare it at customs.
For non-residents arriving from outside the EU, personal goods up to €430 (approx. USD 470) are duty-free. For arrivals from EU countries, the limit is €10,000 for personal goods.
Yes, for personal use, but if the medicine contains a controlled substance, you must carry a doctor's prescription and a letter of authorization from the San Marino health authority. Keep medicines in original packaging.
Yes, meat, dairy, and plant products from outside the EU are restricted. You may bring up to 2 kg of powdered infant formula, baby food, or special medical foods. Other food items must be declared and may be subject to inspection.

Official source

San Marino Customs and Excise Office (Ufficio Dogane e Imposte Indirette)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with San Marino Customs and Excise Office (Ufficio Dogane e Imposte Indirette) before travelling.