International parcel import limits by country: 2025 guide

Every country allows some level of duty-free import for personal goods. Knowing these thresholds helps senders declare correctly and avoid surprises at the border.

United Kingdom. Gifts valued under GBP 39 enter duty-free. Commercial goods have a GBP 135 VAT threshold. Above these values, duty and VAT apply. Post-Brexit rules mean EU goods are treated the same as any other origin.

European Union. Goods valued under EUR 150 enter duty-free (the de minimis threshold). VAT applies from EUR 1 but is often not collected on low-value personal imports. Member states vary slightly on enforcement.

United States. The de minimis threshold is USD 800, one of the most generous in the world. Goods below this value can typically be imported without duty or formal customs entry.

Canada. CAD 20 for postal imports, CAD 200 for courier imports. These are significantly lower than the US threshold and catch many senders off guard.

Nigeria. No general de minimis. All imports are in principle dutiable, though personal-effects allowances exist for returning residents. Customs enforcement is variable.

Ghana. Gifts up to USD 50 may enter duty-free under personal effects provisions. Commercial-looking shipments attract scrutiny regardless of value.

Kenya. Gifts for personal use valued under KES 10,000 (approx. USD 75) are generally exempt. Electronics are closely scrutinised.

South Africa. Goods brought in personally (in accompanying baggage) have an R 5,000 allowance. Unaccompanied goods face the standard tariff structure.

UAE. No customs duty on goods valued under AED 1,000 for personal imports. Strict rules on alcohol and certain food products independent of value.

These thresholds change. Always verify current rules through the official customs authority of the destination country before sending.