Slovakia customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Slovakia, as an EU member, applies standard EU duty-free allowances for non-resident travellers arriving from outside the EU. In 2026, key limits are 1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 litres of wine/beer, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of smoking tobacco, and personal goods up to EUR 430 (approx. USD 470) duty-free. Cash of EUR 10,000 or more (approx. USD 10,900) must be declared in writing. Note: These limits apply only to non-EU arrivals; EU travellers have no fixed limits for personal use.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1L of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2L of wine/beer (under 22% ABV). Traveller must be 18+. Combination allowed as long as total alcohol content does not exceed 1L of pure alcohol (approx. 10L of beer or 4L of wine).
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,900
Cash (including banknotes, coins, cheques, and negotiable instruments) of EUR 10,000 or more (approx. USD 10,900) must be declared in writing to customs upon arrival or departure. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines up to 100% of the amount.
Goods duty-free
$470
Personal goods and gifts up to EUR 430 (approx. USD 470) are duty-free. Above that, duty and VAT apply on the full value. This limit does not apply to goods bought duty-free within the EU. For travellers under 15, the limit is EUR 150 (approx. USD 165).

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except for medical use with a permit)
  • Counterfeit goods (including fake branded items)
  • Endangered species and products made from them (CITES)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (without a Slovak police permit)
  • Pornographic material depicting minors
  • Certain meats and dairy products from non-EU countries (unless accompanied by a veterinary certificate)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (require a doctor's prescription and a customs permit)
  • Plants, seeds, and soil (require a phytosanitary certificate)
  • Drones (must comply with EU drone regulations; registration may be required)
  • Cultural heritage items (antiques over 50 years old may need an export permit from the Ministry of Culture)
  • Satellite phones (require a permit from the Slovak Telecommunication Office)

Rules worth knowing

EU traveller vs. non-EU traveller

If you arrive from another EU country, you can bring unlimited amounts of alcohol and tobacco for personal use, as long as you can prove it's for personal consumption. Non-EU arrivals are subject to the standard duty-free limits.

Cash declaration threshold

Any person entering or leaving Slovakia with cash of EUR 10,000 or more (or equivalent in other currencies) must declare it to customs. Failure to do so can result in seizure and fines up to 100% of the amount.

Temporary import of vehicles

Non-residents can bring a vehicle into Slovakia for up to 6 months without paying duty, provided it is not sold or used for commercial purposes. A carnet de passage may be required for non-EU vehicles.

Pets and animal products

Pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) must have an EU pet passport, be microchipped, and have a valid rabies vaccination. Non-EU travellers need a rabies antibody test and a health certificate.

Frequently asked questions

No, the duty-free limit is 1 litre of spirits over 22% ABV. If you bring more, you must declare it and pay duty and VAT on the excess.
Customs can seize the undeclared cash and impose a fine of up to 100% of the amount. Always declare amounts over EUR 10,000 in writing.
Yes, meat and dairy products from non-EU countries are generally prohibited unless accompanied by a veterinary certificate. Fruits, vegetables, and nuts are allowed in small quantities for personal use, but may be subject to inspection.
If the total value of gifts and personal goods is under EUR 430 (approx. USD 470), they are duty-free. Above that, you must pay duty and VAT on the full value.
Yes, for personal use, but if the medication contains controlled substances (e.g., strong painkillers or ADHD meds), you need a doctor's prescription and a customs permit. Carry a letter from your doctor explaining the need.
No fixed limit, but customs may question you if you have more than 800 cigarettes (4 cartons) or 1kg of tobacco. You must be able to prove it's for personal use, not resale.

Official source

Financial Administration of the Slovak Republic (Customs Section)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Financial Administration of the Slovak Republic (Customs Section) before travelling.