Passing customs in Andorra: taxes and exemptions

Andorra or Principality of Andorra, is a small sovereign state nestled in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. This mountainous territory of 468 km² attracts millions of visitors each year thanks to its preserved natural environment, its rich cultural heritage and its attractive commercial offer, particularly in terms of zero-rated products such as tobacco, alcohol or perfumes.

Known for its ski resorts such as Grandvalira and Vallnord, Andorra is a popular tourist destination in winter and summer. The country also has a unique political status, as it is led by two co-princes: the President of the French Republic and the Spanish Bishop of Urgell.

Its geographical location and its customs specificities make it a separate destination at the gates of France. Before any purchase or crossing of the border, it is therefore essential to know the rules regarding exemptions, taxes and customs controls to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Since August 1, 2020, new thresholds apply to the introduction of manufactured tobacco in France when it comes from other EU member states. These thresholds are set out in Article 575 I of the General Tax Code. These thresholds are identical to the exemptions applicable to third countries. It should be noted, however, that they do not apply to Andorra: for the Principality of Andorra, the exemptions provided for in the EC/Andorra Agreement of 28 June 1990 remain applicable (cf. the limits on quantities of tobacco brought back into France).

Formalities on your return from Andorra

While the general rule is the obligation to declare, at the time of customs clearance, the goods transported in order to pay the corresponding duties and taxes, a certain number of products, under agreements between the European Union and Andorra, benefit from duty and tax exemptions, in value or in quantities, whether they be purchases or gifts.

 

The limits in quantities of products brought back to France after your trip to Andorra:

Quantities allowed for tobacco brought back to France
ProductsLimits in quantities1
Cigarettes300 units
or Cigarillos2150 units
or Cigars75 units
or Smoking tobacco400 g

1 These deductibles apply to persons 17 years and older (no tolerance for those under 17 years).
Tobacco may be the subject of an assortment within its category.
2 Cigarillos: cigars up to 3 grams per piece.

Quantities allowed for alcoholic beverages brought back to France
ProductsLimits in quantities1
Still wines (non-sparkling)5 liters
Drinks containing more than 22°, undenatured ethyl alcohol of 80 % vol. and more1.5 liter
Drinks measuring 22° or less3 liters

1 These deductibles apply to persons 17 years and older (no tolerance for those under 17 years).
Alcoholic beverages may be assorted within their category.

Quantities allowed for coffee brought back to France
ProductsLimits in quantities1
Coffee1000 g
or extracts and essences of coffee400 g

1 These deductibles apply to persons 17 years and older (no tolerance for those under 17 years).

Quantities allowed for tea brought back to France
ProductsLimits in quantities1
Tea200 g
or extracts and essences of tea80 g

1 These deductibles apply to persons 17 years and older (no tolerance for those under 17 years).

  • Quantities allowed for perfume brought back in France: 75 ml

  • Quantities allowed for eau de toilette brought back to France: 37,5 cl

Quantities allowed for foodstuffs brought back to France
ProductsLimits in quantities3
Milk powder2.5 kg
Condensed milk3 kg
Fresh milk6 kg
Butter1 kg
Cheese4 kg
Sugar and sweets5 kg
Meat5 kg

3 Food is subject to limits in terms of value and quantity.

 

Limits in product values reported in France

Value limits for travelers over 15 and under
 Limits in values3
per traveler aged 15 years and over€300
per traveler under the age of 15€150

3 Food is subject to limits in terms of value and quantity.

Value limits for travelers over 15 and under
 Limits in values
per traveler aged 15 years and over€900
per traveler under the age of 15€450

 

 

The amounts or quantities of the allowances shown in the tables may not be accumulated by several persons traveling together for the same object or purchase.

Make your trip easier: the free movement card in Andorra

To avoid carrying with you, in the form of purchase invoices, proof of previous purchases of objects such as cameras, camcorders, mobile phones, etc., have them entered on a free movement card. Free, valid for 10 years, this card will be issued to you at any customs office, and it will prove the regularity of the situation of your belongings during all your travels.

Any item whose value is greater than the deductible will have to be declared to the customs service. You will pay the duties and taxes on the total value, without any discount.

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