Arriving as a traveller
What to declare on arrival, when to use the red channel, and how personal allowances and currency thresholds are applied.
- Who it is for
- Travellers
- Steps
- 4
- Indicative duration
- At the point of arrival
How it works
Step 1: Assess what you are carrying
Compare your goods against the personal allowance. Commercial quantities, restricted items and currency above the threshold always require a declaration.
- Traveller
Step 2: Choose the correct channel
Use the green channel only if you have nothing to declare. If you are unsure, use the red channel — declaring costs nothing and avoids a penalty.
- Traveller
Step 3: Complete the declaration
At the red channel, complete the declaration form and present the goods, receipts and any permit. Currency declarations are recorded separately.
- Traveller
Step 4: Pay any duty and collect your receipt
Duty and VAT on the amount above the allowance are payable at the counter. Keep the receipt — it is your proof of lawful import.
- Traveller
Before you start
- Truthful declaration of goods and currency
- Permit for restricted goods
Documents to prepare
- Passport or travel document
- Declaration form
- Receipts for high-value items
Related services and procedures
- Services — Travellers
Passenger Information
Personal allowances, prohibited and restricted goods, currency declaration thresholds and the red/green channel rules for travellers.
Read - Services — Relief & exemptions
Exemptions
Duty relief for diplomatic missions, investment projects, charitable bodies, returning residents and temporary admission of goods.
Read