Alert issued on potential risks during holiday season
When travelling from non-EU countries like Turkey, Egypt, or the UK to Germany, it's essential to be aware of the customs restrictions and allowances for alcohol, tobacco, and nature souvenirs.
**Alcohol and Tobacco Allowances:** Germany, as part of the EU, has set certain limits for travelers bringing alcohol and tobacco products from non-EU countries for personal use without paying customs duties. Typically, travelers can bring up to 200 cigarettes, 100 cigars, 50 cigarillos, or 250 grams of smoking tobacco. For alcohol, the allowances usually include up to 1 liter of spirits over 22% volume, or 2 liters of fortified wine (e.g., port), 4 liters of still wine, and 16 liters of beer. Exceeding these quantities will subject the goods to customs duties and taxes.
**Nature Souvenirs:** For natural products such as plants, shells, or wood souvenirs, restrictions depend on species and environmental protection laws. Certain plants and animal products may be prohibited or require certificates (e.g., CITES permits for endangered species). Carrying such souvenirs without proper documentation can lead to fines or confiscation at customs. Customs advises against buying souvenirs made from animals and plants, as they could be strictly protected.
**VAT and Customs Duties:** Purchases from non-EU countries may also be subject to VAT and customs duties when entering Germany. Travelers can sometimes benefit from VAT refunds on goods purchased in Germany if they export them to a non-EU country within three months, proving export at the border.
**Special Notes for UK Travelers:** Since the UK is now a non-EU country post-Brexit, travel from the UK to Germany follows the same customs rules as other non-EU countries regarding allowances and duties on alcohol, tobacco, and other goods.
For exact current limits and procedures, travelers should consult German customs official sources before traveling, especially regarding protected natural products. The main customs office in Aachen provides tips on how to avoid unnecessary stress upon your return. Customs recommends checking online before traveling to see if your travel souvenirs are allowed.
When returning from a non-EU country, the limit for air travelers aged 15 and above is €430, and for other means of transport, it's €300. Ignorance of these rules can lead to expensive mistakes. It's essential to be aware of these regulations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey through customs.
For more information on prohibited products, visit www.artenschutz-online.de. Customs have clear rules about what can be brought back from abroad, so it's always best to check before you travel to avoid any pitfalls.
- When travelling to Germany from a non-EU country, it's crucial to consider the restrictions on alcohol, tobacco, and nature souvenirs to avoid customs duties and fines. For instance, travelers can bring up to 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of smoking tobacco, or specific alcohol amounts as per the EU limits.
- In addition, be mindful of restrictions on natural products such as plants, shells, or wood souvenirs, as certain species may be protected and require certificates. To ensure a smooth journey through customs, it's advisable to check German customs official sources and avoid purchasing souvenirs made from animals or plants, as they could be strictly protected.
