Cuban Cigars - Import to Germany

When exporting goods from Cuba, as with any country, specific local regulations must be observed. Items of animal or plant origin belonging to protected species may not be exported. Similarly, items of cultural or historical significance, such as those considered part of Cuba's national heritage, are also prohibited from export. To avoid complications, consult the local authorities at Bienes Culturales Vedado, Ciudad La Habana to determine which goods you may export.

Exporting Cigars from Cuba

Each person is allowed to export up to 20 loose cigars without providing proof of purchase. You may export up to 50 cigars per person if they are in sealed, official packaging with an anti-counterfeit hologram and you can present a receipt from an authorized tobacco shop.

For exports exceeding 50 cigars, you must provide the original receipt issued by officially authorized state stores, detailing the total quantity of tobacco intended for export. Make sure the cigars have tax stamps and that the invoice includes Cuban VAT to comply with regulations.

The foreign VAT amount is important for calculating the value limits of goods per person in Germany.

Importing Cuban Cigars to Germany

German import regulations stipulate that goods can only be imported within certain quantity and value limits. Individuals must be at least 17 years old to import tobacco or alcohol into Germany. These goods must accompany the traveler in the same means of transport and be intended solely for personal use.

This means the tobacco products must be for personal consumption, for members of your household, or as gifts. The goods must not be intended for commercial purposes, and it is strictly prohibited to bring them on behalf of others for compensation.

The quantity limits for tobacco products are:

• 50 cigars
• 200 cigarettes (including e-cigarettes or tobacco sticks)
• 100 cigarillos
• 250 grams of smoking tobacco
• A proportional combination of these goods

A proportional combination could, for example, include 25 cigars and 100 cigarettes brought into Germany.

Should you wish to import additional goods, you must declare them to German customs and pay the applicable import duties. Cuban cigars and cigarillos up to 250 pieces are taxed at a flat rate of 42%.

It is advisable to voluntarily declare these items rather than risk being caught during an inspection, as undeclared goods constitute tax evasion and may result in significantly higher fines. Having an official receipt detailing the quantities and value of the tobacco, including VAT, can help customs calculate the applicable duty rate.

If this process seems too complicated, we offer a wide selection of Cuban cigars for purchase directly on our website.

Exporting Other Goods from Cuba

Besides cigars, Cuba is also renowned for its rum. You may export up to 3 liters of high-proof alcohol. However, note that only 1 liter of spirits with an alcohol content above 22% can be imported duty-free into Germany. For currency exports, amounts up to 5,000 CUC in freely convertible currency are allowed without declaration. Amounts above this must be declared.

An exception applies if it can be proven that the money was already present upon entry or was legally withdrawn from a Cuban bank.

Related Articles:

• Cuban Cigar Formats
• Havana Cigars