Barbados
Key advice
Barbados does not accept ATA Carnets. Your personal, used dive photography equipment is duty-exempt. For new equipment, cameras have a 0% import duty, but VAT (17.5%) applies. For temporary professional importation, contact customs in advance.
- Customs authority
- Barbados Revenue Authority — Customs Division
- Personal duty-free allowance
- 50
- ATA Carnet
- Not accepted
- Official website
- asycuda.customs.gov.bb ↗
Practical scenarios
You're traveling to Barbados with a GoPro Hero 11 and its waterproof housing, valued at approximately €600. Upon arrival, verbally declare your equipment as 'used personal effects' to the customs officer. Show them that the device is already used (scratches, signs of wear). It's highly likely you'll pass through without formalities or taxes, as used personal photo equipment is generally exempt. The risk is minimal, unless the equipment appears new and exceeds the 100 BBD allowance for new purchases.
You're arriving in Barbados with a Sony A6700 mirrorless camera, a Nauticam housing, and a macro lens, with a total value of about €3,500. Your equipment is visibly used. Present it as 'personal photographic equipment for temporary recreational use.' Given that cameras have a 0% import duty and your equipment is used, you shouldn't have to pay customs duties. The 17.5% VAT does not apply to personal used goods. The main risk would be a strict interpretation by the officer if the equipment appears too new or professional.
You're carrying a complete system: a Canon R5 full-frame mirrorless camera, a Subal housing, two lenses (macro and fisheye), valued at €12,000. Your equipment is used. Declare it as 'personal professional photographic equipment for temporary use.' Since Barbados does not accept ATA Carnets, you'll need to emphasize the temporary and personal nature of the import. Although cameras have a 0% duty, the high value might raise questions. Be prepared to explain that it's your work/passion tool and not intended for sale. In case of doubt, a temporary import declaration might be requested, but for personal used equipment, this is rare.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to declare my underwater photography equipment to Barbados customs if I'm just a tourist?
Yes, it's always recommended to verbally declare your photo equipment, especially if it has significant value. Specify that it's used personal effects for temporary use. Used personal photo equipment is generally exempt from duties and VAT in Barbados.
Does Barbados accept ATA Carnets for the temporary import of professional photo equipment?
No, Barbados does not accept ATA Carnets. For the temporary import of professional equipment, it's advisable to contact the Barbados Revenue Authority's customs division in advance to discuss specific procedures, which may include a customs bond.
What duties and taxes apply if I buy new photo equipment in Barbados or import new equipment?
Cameras (HS 9006) have a 0% import duty. However, VAT (Value Added Tax) of 17.5% applies to permanent purchases or the import of new equipment. There is a small allowance of 100 BBD (approximately 50 USD) for new purchases. For more information, consult the official website directly: https://asycuda.customs.gov.bb/portal/services/dutyCalculator/calculateDuties.jsf