New Caledonia

You're traveling with a GoPro Hero 12 and its housing (value ~€500). In New Caledonia, this equipment falls under personal effects: no formalities, no declaration to the DRNC upon arrival at Nouméa-La Tontouta, as long as it's strictly for personal use during your stay. Nevertheless, keep the purchase invoice (paper or photo on your smartphone) to prove its origin if checked. Note: the XPF 30,000 (~€251) allowance does NOT apply to your camera, but to new goods or gifts you might be importing in addition. Risk is almost zero: the equipment is clearly personal in nature and quantity. Simply leave with your gear at the end of your stay to comply with regulations.

You're arriving with an APS-C mirrorless camera (Sony A6700), an Ikelite housing, and two strobes (value ~€3,500). This kit remains personal effects, admitted without formalities or value limits, provided it doesn't appear commercial. Two identical camera bodies or new, packaged equipment could raise suspicions from the DRNC. Carry all invoices and, ideally, an inventory list with serial numbers. If in doubt during inspection, explain that the equipment will leave with you. For formal security, request temporary admission (AT application forms and AT inventory available on douane.gouv.nc) or an ATA Carnet before departure. Risk if reclassified: import duties (0-20%) plus 11% TGC on the total value, without reduction.

You're transporting a full-frame camera in a Nauticam housing, aluminum arms, two high-end strobes, and macro/fisheye lenses (value ~€12,000). Even at this level, personal effects rules theoretically apply, but a kit of this value in a Peli case will attract attention at La Tontouta. Strong recommendation: obtain an ATA Carnet in your home country (CCI in France, USCIB in the USA) — it is explicitly recognized by the CDNC (articles Lp. 374-1 et seq.). Have it stamped upon entry AND exit from the territory. Alternative: submit a temporary admission request via the DRNC forms. Without documentation, reclassification as an import would incur import duties up to 20% plus 11% TGC on €12,000, potentially over €3,500. Invoices and a detailed inventory remain essential in all cases.

Do I need to declare my underwater photo equipment when arriving in New Caledonia?

No, if it's strictly for personal use during your stay. Photo/video equipment falls under personal effects, admitted without formalities and without value limits, provided it doesn't appear commercial by its nature or quantity, and you take it with you when you leave. Keep invoices for any DRNC checks.

Does the XPF 30,000 allowance apply to my camera?

No. This allowance (~€251, for travelers aged 15 and over) concerns imported goods like gifts or new purchases, not your personal effects. Your photo equipment used during the trip is outside this allowance and requires no formalities. Note: if you exceed XPF 30,000 in goods, taxation applies to the total value without reduction.

Is the ATA Carnet accepted in New Caledonia?

Yes. The New Caledonian Customs Code (CDNC) explicitly recognizes the ATA Carnet for temporary admission. It is recommended for expensive kits (over €4,500) or for professional use. Have it issued before departure in your home country and ensure it is stamped upon entry and exit from the territory.