What should I know about French customs regulations?

Question: What should I know about French customs regulations?

First off, note that this information pertains only to individuals traveling to France as tourists. Organizations and individuals traveling on business should consult this page for more information.

Answer:

Duty Free Items

U.S. and Canadian citizens may bring goods into or from France up to a certain value before having to pay custom duties, excise taxes, or VAT (Value-Added Tax). You should keep the following in mind:

• U.S. and Canadian citizens aged 15 and over may bring articles totaling 175 Euros (approx. $225) into France duty and tax-free. Citizens under the age of 15 are permitted 75 Euros (approx. $96) worth of goods.
  
  
• Individuals over 17 may also purchase and import certain duty-free items from France up to a certain limit. This includes tobacco and alcoholic beverages, perfume, water, coffee and tea, motor fuel, and medications. The limits for these items are listed below:
  
  
  • Cigarettes: 200 units
  • Cigarillos: 100 units (max. 3 grams each)
  • Cigars: 50 units
  • Still wines: 2 liters
  • Spirits over 22 degrees volume: 1 liter
  • Fortified wines, 22 degrees volume or less: 2 liters
  • Perfumes: 50 grams
  • Eaux de Toilettes: 1/4 liter
  • Coffee: 500 grams
  • Coffee extracts and essences: 200 grams
  • Tea: 100 grams
  • Medications: Varies according to traveler's health requirements
  • Motor fuel: Quantities equal to that found in a normal full fuel tank, or in an emergency can, not exceeding 10 liters.

• Duty and tax exemptions are strictly individual. You cannot apply them to a group.
  
  
• Items worth more than the maximum exempt amount will be subject to duties and taxes.
  
  
• You can bring personal items such as guitars or bicycles to France and not be charged any taxes or fees as long as the items are clearly for personal use. You may not sell or dispose of these while in France. All personal items declared to customs upon entry into France must be transported back with you.

Money and currency

There are no restrictions in terms of the amount of money (in the form of cash, check, or other monetary instrument) that can be brought into or out of France. However, when the amount or equivalent value of goods exceeds 7600 Euros (approx. $9,700), you will need to fill out a Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instrument (déclaration de sommes, titres et valeurs). To do this, follow these steps.

Other Items

For more detailed information on French customs regulations, including information on bringing pets, plants, or fresh food items into and out of France, consult the French Embassy Customs FAQ page.