Taiwan customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Taiwan allows duty-free imports of 1 liter of alcohol (any strength, traveler must be 18+), 200 cigarettes (or 25 cigars or 450g of other tobacco products, choose one category), and personal goods up to TWD 20,000 (approx. USD 640). Cash or equivalent instruments over TWD 100,000 (approx. USD 3,200) must be declared; amounts over USD 10,000 equivalent require a written declaration. Strict bans on narcotics, counterfeit goods, certain agricultural products, and pork products due to African swine fever apply. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are prohibited.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of alcoholic beverages (any strength). Traveler must be 18+. Beer and wine are included in this single liter limit.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 25 cigars / 450 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount of cash, traveler's checks, or negotiable instruments exceeding TWD 100,000 (approx. USD 3,200) must be declared. For amounts over USD 10,000 equivalent, a formal written declaration is required.
Goods duty-free
$640
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts is TWD 20,000 (approx. USD 640) per traveler. Items above this value are subject to duty on the full amount.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, ketamine)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated materials (including fake brand items and unauthorized reproductions)
  • Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and weapons (including replicas and air guns)
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed animals, plants, ivory, rhino horn, tiger parts)
  • Soil, fresh fruits, vegetables, and live plants without quarantine approval
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste
  • E-cigarettes, vaping devices, and heated tobacco products
  • Pork products from regions affected by African swine fever (including sausages, ham, jerky, canned pork)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (require a prescription and prior approval from the Food and Drug Administration; limit to 30-day supply)
  • Animals and animal products (require quarantine inspection and import permit from the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine)
  • Plants and plant products (require phytosanitary certificate and quarantine inspection)
  • Radio transmitters and wireless devices (e.g., drones, walkie-talkies, satellite phones) require approval from the National Communications Commission
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (export/import may require a permit from the Ministry of Culture)

Rules worth knowing

Duty-Free Limit in Local Currency

Taiwan sets its duty-free allowance for goods at TWD 20,000, not a fixed USD amount. This is per traveler and applies to the total value of all dutiable items. If the value exceeds TWD 20,000, duty is charged on the entire amount.

Cash Declaration Threshold

Any traveler carrying cash, traveler's checks, or negotiable instruments with a total value exceeding TWD 100,000 (approx. USD 3,200) must declare it on the customs declaration form. For amounts over USD 10,000 equivalent, a separate written declaration is required.

Pork Products Ban Due to African Swine Fever

Due to African swine fever, bringing any pork products (including sausages, ham, jerky, and canned pork) from affected regions is strictly prohibited. Fines start at TWD 200,000 (approx. USD 6,400) for first offenses.

Duty-Free Alcohol and Tobacco Age Restriction

The duty-free allowance for alcohol and tobacco applies only to travelers aged 18 and over. Minors cannot bring in any duty-free alcohol or tobacco.

E-Cigarette and Vaping Device Ban

Taiwan bans the import of e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and heated tobacco products. They are considered prohibited items. Violators face fines and confiscation.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but only for personal use. Carry a doctor's prescription or a letter explaining the condition and dosage. For controlled substances (e.g., painkillers, sleeping pills), you must apply for an import permit from the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration before travel. Limit to a 30-day supply.
If the total value of your goods exceeds TWD 20,000, you must declare them. Duty is charged on the full value, not just the excess. The rate varies by item, typically 5-20% plus 5% VAT. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.
No. Taiwan bans the import of e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and heated tobacco products. They are considered prohibited items. Violators face fines and confiscation.
You can bring up to TWD 100,000 (approx. USD 3,200) in cash or equivalent instruments without declaring. Any amount above that must be declared. For amounts over USD 10,000 equivalent, a written declaration is required.
Yes, but with restrictions. Commercially packaged snacks (candy, chips, cookies) are generally allowed. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products are prohibited without quarantine inspection. Dried fruit and nuts are allowed if commercially sealed and labeled. Declare all food items.
No, personal electronics for your own use (laptops, cameras, phones) do not need to be declared. However, if you are carrying multiple units that look like commercial goods, customs may ask for proof of personal use. Drones require prior approval from the National Communications Commission.

Official source

Taiwan Customs Administration, Ministry of Finance

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Taiwan Customs Administration, Ministry of Finance before travelling.