Spain customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Spain's duty-free allowance for non-resident adults arriving from outside the EU is 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/beer, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco, and goods up to €430 (about USD 470). Cash of €10,000 or more (about USD 10,900) must be declared. Strict bans apply to narcotics, certain meats, and counterfeit goods.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine/beer. Traveler must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,900
Cash or equivalent monetary instruments of €10,000 or more (about USD 10,900) must be declared on the S-1 form before customs. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines up to €6,000.
Goods duty-free
$470
Personal goods up to €430 (about USD 470) are duty-free for non-residents arriving from outside the EU. Above that, duty and 21% VAT apply.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with medical prescription and permit)
  • Counterfeit goods, including fake branded items
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed, e.g., ivory, rhino horn)
  • Meat and dairy products from outside the EU (unless in small quantities for personal use and from approved countries)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (without a Spanish permit)
  • Pornographic material deemed obscene by Spanish law

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (must carry a doctor's prescription and a personal use declaration)
  • Plants, seeds, and soil (require a phytosanitary certificate from the source country)
  • Pets (cats, dogs, ferrets) must have a microchip, rabies vaccination, and EU pet passport or third-country certificate
  • Drones over 250g (must comply with Spanish drone regulations; registration and insurance may be required)
  • Cultural goods and antiques (export/import permits needed for items over 100 years old or of national heritage value)

Rules worth knowing

EU vs. non-EU allowances differ

Allowances above apply to arrivals from outside the EU. Travelers from within the EU can bring unlimited goods for personal use, but must be able to prove they are for personal consumption (e.g., 10 liters of spirits may trigger scrutiny).

Tobacco and alcohol age limit

You must be 18 or older to bring in duty-free tobacco and alcohol. Spanish customs may ask for ID.

Cash declaration is mandatory

Any person entering or leaving Spain with €10,000 or more (or equivalent in other currencies) must complete the S-1 declaration form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines of up to €6,000.

Goods for personal use vs. commercial intent

Customs officers may assess quantity and frequency of travel to determine if goods are for personal use. Multiple trips with similar goods can be considered commercial, leading to duty and penalties.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, Cuban cigars are legal in Spain. You can bring up to 50 cigars duty-free if arriving from outside the EU, as long as they are for personal use. No special permit is needed.
No, personal electronics like laptops and cameras for your own use do not need to be declared, as long as they are clearly for personal use and not for resale. Keep receipts if you want to prove they were bought abroad.
You must declare the excess goods on the customs form. Duty and 21% VAT will be applied to the value above the €430 allowance. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.
Meat and dairy products from outside the EU are generally prohibited unless in small quantities (under 5 kg) and from approved countries (e.g., Switzerland, Norway). Check the EU's personal import rules. Most non-EU cheeses and cured meats are not allowed.
There is no limit, but any amount of €10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared. You can carry less without declaring, but customs may still ask about the source if they suspect illegal activity.
Yes, for personal use. Carry a doctor's prescription or a letter explaining the medication. For controlled substances (e.g., opioids, ADHD meds), you may need a special permit from the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS).

Official source

Agencia Estatal de Administración Tributaria (Spanish Customs)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Agencia Estatal de Administración Tributaria (Spanish Customs) before travelling.