Home

Customs Regulations for Tourists in Gran Canaria: What You Can Bring In and Take Out

Gran Canaria is a popular destination with a special customs status within the European Union. The Canary Islands Special Zone (ZEC) is a low tax zone created within the framework of the Canary Islands Economic and Taxation Regime (REF) for the promotion of the economic and social development of the islands and to diversify their productive structure. ZEC was authorized by the European Commission in January 2000 and is regulated by Law number 19/94 of July 6, 1994.

This means that the rules for what you may import and export may vary slightly depending on your country of origin. Below are general guidelines, but we recommend that you always check the specific rules for your country before you travel.

Import of Goods to Gran Canaria

For Travelers from the EU

If you are traveling to Gran Canaria from another EU country, the same tax-free limits apply as for mainland Spain. This means:

• Tobacco: 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, or 1 kg of smoking tobacco.
• Alcohol: 10 liters of spirits, 20 liters of fortified wine, 90 liters of wine (including up to 60 liters of sparkling wine) and 110 liters of beer.
• Other Goods: Goods for personal use, without limits on value, as long as they are not for commercial purposes.

For Travelers from Outside the EU

Stricter limits apply to travelers from outside the EU:

• Tobacco: 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of smoking tobacco.
• Alcohol: 1 liter of liquor over 22% alcohol, or 2 liters of liquor up to 22% alcohol content, plus 4 liters of wine and 16 liters of beer.
• Other Goods: Tot een waarde van €430 voor lucht- en zeereizigers (€300 voor andere reizigers).

Export of Goods from Gran Canaria

For Travelers to the EU

If you leave Gran Canaria and travel to another EU country, the usual EU rules apply:

• Tobacco and Alcohol: The same quantities as for imports to Gran Canaria.
• Tax refund: Non-EU residents may be eligible for a tax refund on certain purchases.

For Travelers to Outside the EU

When leaving Gran Canaria for a non-EU country, be sure to check the customs rules of that country, as they may vary:

• Tobacco and Alcohol: Limits can vary significantly by country.

Protected Goods: Ensure that you do not export protected flora, fauna or products thereof without the appropriate permits.

E-Cigarettes or Vapes

You may carry e-cigarettes or vapes if it is for your own use. You may not market these products. For more information on the rules for e-cigarettes or vapes, visit the NVWA website.

Exceptional areas Within the EU countries

Different rules apply to certain areas that are part of EU countries, the exception areas. These areas are, for example:

• Åland (Finland)
• the Canary Islands (Spain)
• The French overseas departments of Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Mayotte and Réunion

Different rules for excise and sales tax (VAT) apply to these areas. Are you entering an EU country from an exemption area? Then the tax exemption applies to the goods you bring with you as if you were from a non-EU country.

General Tips for All Travelers

• Medications: Always bring a doctor’s note or prescription when transporting medications.
• Money and Valuables: If you are traveling with more than €10,000 in cash or valuables, it must be declared to customs.
• Customs checks: Regardless of your origin or destination, you may be checked by customs at any time. Make sure you always follow the rules to avoid problems.

Gran Canaria welcomes travelers from all over the world. While the rules mentioned above provide a good general guide, it is essential to check the specific customs rules of your country of origin and destination. That way, you can enjoy your stay on this beautiful island without any worries.

Share Your Experiences and Suggestions about Customs on Gran Canaria!

Did you recently deal with Customs in Gran Canaria? We would love to hear about your adventures and recommendations! Your insights help us keep our tourism page updated and improved. Whether you’ve discovered a hidden gem, found a great restaurant or have tips for other travelers, your feedback is invaluable. Share your experiences and suggestions with verschueren.eddy@gmail.com and help others get the most out of their visit to this beautiful island. Together we will create the ultimate guide to Gran Canaria!