There are usually two lines at a point of entry: "To Declare" and "Nothing to Declare". If you are within the permissible limits of import, you can go through "Nothing to Declare". If you are carrying more than the limits (i.e. have more then the permissible level of cash), you will need to declare and pay the penalties. People are randomly selected out of the "Nothing to Declare" line and their goods are inspected. If found to be importing illegally, harsh fines will be imposed.

Imports

Visitors to Egypt over age 18 are given the following import allowances by Egyptian customs:

Permissible Imports:
• 200 cigarettes, 25 cigars or 200 g tobacco
• 2 liters of alcohol
• Perfume for personal use
• Gifts up to EGP 500.00 in value

Restricted Imports:
• Cash, travelers' checks, cash cards, and gold over the value of EGP 500.00 - must be declared
• Illegal Drugs
• Medicines
• Weapons
• Explosive Material
• Cotton

Exports Prohibited:

• Narcotics
• Firearms
• Cotton
• Gold and silver purchased locally (unless for personal use only and in small quantities)
• Any antiquity older than 100 years without a license

Pets

Many people want to bring their pet with them on their travels and while that is entirely possible, it does require some planning and preparation. Entry may be refused if the animal is not in good health.

Incoming passengers to Egypt can import up to two pets at one time, including domestic animals such as dogs, birds, cats, etc. It is required to show the animal's health certificates from their country of origin, along with an import permit with an examination of the animal upon entry into the country. Travel should be planned for weekdays to ensure arrival to ensure custom facilities are open.

Documentation Necessary

Microchip - to verify pets identity. All microchips conforming to the ISO standards are easily readable.

Vaccination - Every pet older than 3 months must be vaccinated against rabies. The pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before arrival. However the vaccination cannot be older than 12 months from the date of arrival to the EU. Dogs must also get full shots for Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvo, and DHLPP. Cats must also be vaccinated against Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calcivirus, and Panleukopenia.

Certificate of good health - Issued by a vet after an exam.

For complete information on taking your pet abroad, read EasyExpat's article on "Expat Pets".

Custom's Resources

U.S. Citizens: The free pamphlet "Know Before You Go" at www.cbp.gov is very helpful. (Click on "Travel" and then click on "Know Before You Go! Online Brochure").
You can also contact:
U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP)
1300 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, DC 20229
Tel. 877/287-8667

Canadian Citizens: "I Declare", issued by the Canada Border Services Agency (tel. 800/461-9999 in Canada, or 204/983-3500 ) is helpful.

U.K. Citizens: HM Customs & Excise at tel. 0845/010-9000 (from outside the U.K., 020/8929-0152) can help.

Australian Citizens: A helpful brochure is available from Australian consulates or Customs offices called "Know Before You Go". Call the Australian Customs Service at tel. 1300/363-263, or log on to http://www.customs.gov.au/.