As a member of the European Union (EU), Portugal adheres to strict customs regulations when it comes to receiving packages from countries outside the EU. Understanding these rules is essential to avoid unexpected fees and delays in receiving your items. This article provides an in-depth guide to Portugal’s customs rules, how to potentially avoid customs charges for gifts, and a step-by-step guide on how to pay customs duties on the official Portuguese customs website.
General Customs Regulations in Portugal
When receiving packages from outside the EU, several factors determine whether customs duties, VAT, or additional charges apply. The value of the package is crucial. Packages marked as gifts with a value of up to €45 are exempt from customs duties and VAT, while for commercial items, VAT and customs duties apply to packages valued above €150. VAT may also apply to items valued above €22. The nature of the item also matters, as some items, such as alcohol, tobacco, and certain high-value goods, are subject to specific excise duties regardless of their declared value. Accurate declaration is essential; the sender must declare the value and nature of the items accurately on the package. Undervaluing items can lead to fines and confiscation. Customs inspections are routine, and additional documentation may be required to verify the declared value and contents.
What if I get a notice from CTT that my package is stuck in customs?
You may get a notice or letter from the Portuguese post office (CTT) which indicates that your package is being withheld “Desalfandegamento” pending customs clearance procedures. If this happens, you need to complete some customs clearance procedures by going to the CTT website.
1. Once you go to the website, click on the settings tools to the right of the magnifying glass icon on the right side of this toolbar below.
2. Then, click on “desalfandegar uma encomenda” and log into the CTT website. You may need to make an account if this is your first time using the CTT website.
3. Next, choose “Start” and then click “Add New Object.” In the “tracking number” field, put the “No. do objeto,” which is in your letter/SMS/email.
4. Then, you need to complete the missing information. If necessary, you may need to correct the “Nature of Shipment.” If it is a purchase, mark it “comercial.” If it is a gift seny by relatives or friends, mark it as “não comercial”=”oferta.” As we mentioned above, gifts under €45 are tax-free.
5. Once you’ve registered your package, you can check the status on the CTT website and opt to receive alerts by SMS or email. If you have any questions, contact the CTT information helpline at +351210471616.
Avoiding Customs Charges for Gifts
If you are receiving gifts from family or friends outside the EU, there are ways to legally avoid paying customs duties and VAT. First, ensure the sender marks the package as a gift on the customs declaration form. The value of the gift, including shipping costs, must not exceed €45. If the value is higher, VAT and duties will apply to the entire amount, not just the portion above the exemption. It is important to avoid sending restricted items, such as alcohol, tobacco, or other excisable goods, as these cannot benefit from the €45 exemption, even if they are gifts.
The customs declaration should include a clear description of the items and their value. Generic descriptions like “personal items” may raise suspicion. If the total value of the gifts exceeds €45, consider splitting them into multiple shipments, and keep each below the exemption threshold. Note that this should be done in good faith and within legal limits. Finally, avoid sending multiple packages from the same sender to the same recipient within a short time frame, as customs authorities may combine their values.
Make sure that family and friends know what to write on their forms when they send their packages. A friend’s mother, for example, sent a T-shirt to her from the United States and gave it a value of €60. The friend ended up paying €30 in customs fees on the CTT website and waiting 5 weeks to receive the package – all for a T-shirt meant to be sent as a gift to her daughter.
Tips for Simplifying the Customs Process
Using reputable couriers can simplify the process as they often handle customs clearance and collect duties and VAT on your behalf. Track your package closely to ensure timely payment of customs charges and avoid storage fees. Plan for delays, as customs clearance can take time, especially during peak shipping periods. Account for potential delays when expecting packages.
It should be mentioned here that many people have found customs procedures in Portugal to be frustrating enough that they have stopped ordering packages from outside of the EU altogether, opting instead to have friends bring packages for them from the UK, the US, Australia, etc. when they come for a visit. Thus, one tip might be to order items from retailers inside the EU including Amazon Spain or Amazon Germany.
Under current EU regulations, packages purchased online from a non-EU country are not subject to customs duties if their value is under 150 euros. This has allowed to AliExpress, Temu, Shein, and other retailers to send packages to Portugal without getting stuck in customs and having buyers pay additional fees, but the EU is now considering imposing customs duties on cheap goods bought from Chinese online retailers.
Common Questions about Customs in Portugal
Are second-hand items subject to customs duties?
Yes, second-hand items are treated like new items for customs purposes and may be subject to VAT and duties if their value exceeds the exemption thresholds.
What happens if I don’t pay the customs charges?
If customs duties are not paid within the specified time, the package may be returned to the sender or confiscated by customs authorities.
Can I appeal a customs decision?
Yes, you can file an appeal with the Portuguese customs authorities if you believe the charges are incorrect. You will need to provide supporting documents to justify your claim.
Final Thoughts
Navigating Portugal’s customs rules for receiving packages from outside the EU can be straightforward with proper understanding and preparation. As we mentioned, however, it can also be frustrating if you make a mistake or don’t realize that your package is being held in customs. By adhering to the exemption thresholds for gifts and ensuring accurate declarations, you can avoid unnecessary fees. If customs duties are unavoidable, the official Portuguese customs portal provides an efficient way to settle charges and receive your package without delay. Staying informed and proactive will help ensure a smooth experience when receiving international shipments.
