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France · $800 exemption

Duty-Free Allowance from France

Returning from France: $800 personal exemption, up to 1 liter of alcohol duty-free.

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Frequently asked questions

What's my duty-free allowance returning from France?

You get an $800 personal exemption on goods for personal use, plus up to 1 liter of alcohol duty-free.

What happens if I go over the $800 exemption?

You simply pay duty on the amount over $800 — there's no penalty for exceeding it as long as you declare everything honestly.

What should I watch out for bringing things back from France?

Counterfeit designer goods (even 'obviously fake' luxury items) can be seized, and unpasteurized cheeses or meats need to be declared to USDA.

Do I need to declare gifts and items still in checked luggage from France?

Yes — everything you're bringing back needs to be declared, including gifts and anything packed in checked bags, not just what you're carrying on you.