Palau
Key advice
Palau offers a USD 1,000 duty-free allowance for non-commercial personal effects, which covers most dive photography equipment. Drones must be declared upon arrival without exception. Above the threshold, customs duties and PGST (Palau Goods and Services Tax) apply to the total amount.
- Customs authority
- Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) - Republic of Palau
- Personal duty-free allowance
- 1 000 USD
- ATA Carnet
- Not accepted
- Official website
- bcbp.pw ↗
Practical scenarios
You're arriving in Palau with a GoPro Hero 11 and its waterproof housing, with a total value of approximately USD 600. This value is well below the USD 1,000 allowance for non-commercial personal goods. You don't need to take any specific steps at customs, unless you're carrying a drone (even a mini-drone). Your equipment will be considered personal effects and will not be subject to customs duties or PGST. The risk is virtually zero.
You're bringing an APS-C mirrorless camera (e.g., Sony a6700) with an Isotta housing, estimated at a total value of USD 3,500. This value exceeds the USD 1,000 allowance. You will need to declare this equipment to Palau customs. Customs duties and PGST will be applied to the entire USD 3,500. Have your purchase invoices ready to justify the value. The risk is paying unexpected taxes if you don't declare or if you undervalue the equipment.
Your equipment includes a full-frame camera (e.g., Canon R5) with a Nauticam housing, macro and fisheye lenses, totaling USD 12,000. This amount significantly exceeds the allowance. You absolutely must declare this equipment upon arrival. Customs duties and PGST will be calculated on the full USD 12,000. Keep all your invoices. If you fail to declare, you risk confiscation of equipment, significant fines, or even prosecution for illegal importation. Declaration is crucial to avoid any problems.
Frequently asked questions
What is the customs allowance for underwater photography equipment in Palau?
Palau offers a USD 1,000 allowance for non-commercial personal goods. If the value of your underwater photography equipment exceeds this amount, customs duties and PGST will be applied to the total value of the equipment.
Do I need to declare my drone even if it's small and for personal use?
Yes, in Palau, all drones must be declared upon arrival, regardless of their size or intended use (personal or commercial). Failure to comply with this rule can result in penalties.
Where can I find official information on Palau's customs regulations?
For more information, please consult the official website directly: https://bcbp.pw/