Do I need to pay import costs for a gift?
In certain cases, a parcel received from outside the EU can be exempt from import costs. We then speak of a gift. Your parcel must meet the following conditions:
- The sender is a private person (e.g. family member, friend, acquaintance). A parcel from an online shop is never considered a gift (even if it says gift on the package).
- The contents of the parcel are for personal use. If the parcel contains alcoholic products, tea, coffee, perfume, eau de toilette, tobacco or tobacco products, the excise duty-free quantity is not exceeded. More detailed information can be found in the related Royal Decree.
- The value of the shipment does not exceed €45. If the total value of your shipment exceeds €45 and consists of several goods, you can get a partial exemption for the goods that (on their own or together) are worth max €45. (See table)
- As the recipient, you have not paid for the parcel.
It is important that the sender declares the shipment as a gift on the customs form (CN22 or CN23).
Please note: if your parcel meets all the requirements and you are still charged import costs, you can dispute these costs and apply for an exemption.
My gift consists of: | Maximum exemption | |
|---|---|---|
Example 1 | 1 sweater - 47 € | 0 € |
Example 2 | 2 jackets - 300 € | 45 € |
Example 3 | 1 hat - 20 € | 40 € |
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