Senegal customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Senegal allows duty-free import of 200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco, 1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV (or 2 liters of wine/beer), and personal goods up to 800,000 XOF (approx. USD 1,300). Cash of 1,000,000 XOF (approx. USD 1,600) or more must be declared. Strict bans apply to narcotics, counterfeit goods, weapons, endangered species, radioactive materials, hazardous waste, and pornography. Restricted items include medicines, plants, pets, satellite phones, and firearms. Travelers must be 18+ for tobacco and alcohol allowances.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, or 2 liters of wine or beer. Traveler must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$1,600
Amounts of 1,000,000 XOF (approx. USD 1,600) or more must be declared on the customs form. Equivalent in foreign currency also requires declaration.
Goods duty-free
$1,300
Personal goods and gifts up to 800,000 XOF (approx. USD 1,300) are duty-free. Above that, duty is assessed at the rate applicable to the item.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, cocaine, heroin)
  • Counterfeit currency and goods (pirated DVDs, fake branded items)
  • Weapons of war, explosives, and ammunition without prior authorization
  • Endangered species and products (ivory, rhino horn, certain reptile skins) under CITES
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
  • Pornographic materials (including digital media)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use: must have a prescription or medical certificate for controlled substances; quantity limited to 3 months' supply
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products: require a phytosanitary certificate from the source country
  • Pets (dogs, cats): must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate and an international health certificate issued within 10 days of travel
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters: require prior authorization from the Senegalese Ministry of Telecommunications
  • Firearms and ammunition: require a permit from the Ministry of Interior

Rules worth knowing

Currency Declaration for XOF and Foreign Cash

Any amount of West African CFA francs (XOF) or foreign currency equivalent to 1,000,000 XOF (approx. USD 1,600) or more must be declared on arrival. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Non-residents may import a vehicle duty-free for up to 6 months. A carnet de passage en douane (CPD) is required for vehicles valued over 2,000,000 XOF (approx. USD 3,200). The vehicle must be re-exported within the period.

Prohibition on Import of Used Clothing (Friperie)

Commercial import of used clothing is strictly prohibited for non-residents. Personal used clothing in reasonable quantities (e.g., a suitcase) is allowed duty-free.

Duty-Free Allowance for Residents Returning from Abroad

Senegalese residents returning from abroad have the same duty-free allowances as non-residents, but goods exceeding 800,000 XOF in value must be declared and may be subject to duty.

Frequently asked questions

You can bring 1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, or 2 liters of wine or beer, duty-free. You must be 18 or older.
You must declare any amount of cash (XOF or foreign currency) equal to or exceeding 1,000,000 XOF, which is about USD 1,600 as of 2026. This includes traveler's checks and money orders.
Yes, for personal use. Carry a doctor's prescription or medical certificate. For controlled substances (e.g., opioids), limit to a 3-month supply and declare them on arrival.
Drones require prior authorization from the Senegalese Civil Aviation Authority (ANACIM). Without it, they may be confiscated. Apply at least 30 days before travel.
Personal goods and gifts up to 800,000 XOF (about USD 1,300) are duty-free. Items above that value are subject to customs duty.
Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries are generally prohibited unless accompanied by a veterinary certificate. For small quantities for personal use, declare them; they may be inspected and allowed if from approved sources.

Official source

Direction Générale des Douanes Sénégalaises (Senegal Customs)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Direction Générale des Douanes Sénégalaises (Senegal Customs) before travelling.