Vanuatu

You're traveling with a GoPro Hero 12 in its original housing, a DJI Osmo Action, and a few filters, total value around €600. Upon arrival in Port Vila (Bauerfield) or Luganville, this equipment is considered personal effects: proceed through the green channel without formalities. No declaration is necessary for this value range, as VCIR customs officers easily recognize an action cam as tourist equipment. Nevertheless, keep your invoices (paper or photo on your phone) just in case. The risk is almost zero: the only point of concern would be visibly new equipment in its original packaging, which might suggest local resale – unbox everything before departure. No specific checks are expected upon departure for this profile.

You're carrying an APS-C mirrorless camera (Sony A6700), an Ikelite housing, two strobes, and a macro lens, total value around €3,500. This value approaches the threshold where the VCIR recommends a voluntary declaration. Upon arrival in Port Vila, voluntarily present yourself at the customs counter with a written list of your equipment (brand, model, serial numbers, value) and request that it be endorsed: this certificate will prove re-exportation upon your departure. Keep your invoices. This process takes a few minutes and protects you from any suspicion of commercial import, especially if you depart from Luganville after a dive trip to Santo (Coolidge wreck). Main risk: without a declaration, an overzealous customs officer might question the origin of the equipment upon departure or demand a deposit upon arrival. Remain courteous and emphasize strictly tourist use.

You're traveling with a full-frame camera (Sony A7R V), Nauticam housing, two Retra strobes, aluminum arms, macro and fisheye lenses: value around €15,000. Voluntary declaration is strongly recommended upon arrival in Vanuatu. Prepare a detailed inventory (serial numbers, values, photos) in duplicate and have it endorsed by the VCIR customs officer with an explicit request for a re-exportation certificate. As the acceptance of an ATA Carnet in Vanuatu is uncertain, do not rely on it: the endorsed inventory is your best protection. Risk: equipment of this value can be considered professional gear, triggering a formal temporary import with a possible bond (up to 15% duties + 15% VAT as guarantee). Emphasize private use (recreational diving), avoid any commercial indicators (production business cards, heavy filming equipment). Arrive with plenty of time, especially in Luganville where the office is small.