Tanzania customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Tanzania allows duty-free import of 1 litre of spirits, 200 cigarettes, and personal goods up to USD 800. Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared. Narcotics and counterfeit currency are strictly prohibited. These rules apply in 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 litres of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Amounts of USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare may result in seizure and penalties.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to USD 800 (or TZS equivalent) are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to duty and taxes.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, heroin, cocaine)
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Pornographic materials
  • Firearms and ammunition without a permit from the Tanzanian Police
  • Wildlife trophies and products (e.g., ivory, rhino horn) without CITES permit
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing narcotics or psychotropic substances (require a doctor's prescription and prior approval from the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require a phytosanitary certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture)
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (require a permit from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority)
  • Satellite phones (require a permit from the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority)
  • Firearms and ammunition (require a police permit and import license)

Rules worth knowing

Currency declaration

All travellers entering or leaving Tanzania must declare any amount exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent) in cash, traveller's cheques, or negotiable instruments. Use the customs declaration form.

Wildlife product ban

Tanzania strictly enforces the ban on importing or exporting wildlife products, especially ivory and rhino horn. Even antique items require a CITES permit. Penalties include heavy fines and imprisonment.

Temporary import of vehicles

Non-residents may temporarily import a vehicle for up to 3 months without paying duty, provided a carnet de passage is obtained. After 3 months, duty must be paid or the vehicle must be exported.

Duty-free shop purchases

Items purchased at duty-free shops outside Tanzania are subject to the same allowances. Any excess must be declared and duty paid.

Frequently asked questions

You can bring 1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 litres of wine or beer. You must be 18 or older.
200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco. You cannot combine these; choose one option.
Yes, if you are carrying USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency), you must declare it on the customs form. Failure to do so can lead to confiscation and fines.
Yes, but you need a permit from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA). Apply in advance. Without a permit, the drone may be confiscated at the border.
You must declare the excess goods and pay customs duty and VAT. The duty rate varies by item. Unreported goods may be seized and you may be fined.
Yes, if your medication contains narcotics or psychotropic substances (e.g., codeine, morphine, diazepam), you need a doctor's prescription and prior approval from the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority. Carry the prescription and a letter from your doctor.

Official source

Tanzania Revenue Authority - Customs Department

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Tanzania Revenue Authority - Customs Department before travelling.