Customs & Import Regulations
Within the EU (and Spain has been a member since 1986), there are no customs controls for personal use. You can take unlimited Jamón Ibérico and Rioja to Germany — as long as it's for personal consumption.
Within the EU — Guidelines for "Personal Use"
- Tobacco: 800 cigarettes, 200 cigars, 1 kg of tobacco
- Alcohol: 10 liters of spirits, 20 liters of liqueur wine (Sherry!), 90 liters of wine, 110 liters of beer
- If exceeded, you must prove it's for personal use (wedding, party, etc.)
From Outside the EU (Canaries!)
Attention: The Canary Islands are part of Spain and the EU but have a special status (no EU VAT, instead IGIC of 7%). When entering from the Canaries to the Spanish mainland or Germany, the non-EU duty-free limits apply:
- 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars
- 1 liter of spirits over 22% or 2 liters under 22%
- 4 liters of wine, 16 liters of beer
- Goods up to €430 in value (air travel) or €300 (land/sea travel)
Prohibitions & Restrictions
- Food: No restrictions within the EU. Cheese, ham, olive oil — all allowed
- Conservation: No corals, shells, snail shells, animal specimens, or plants from nature reserves
- Medications: Personal needs for the duration of the trip, prescription medications require a doctor's certificate (preferably in English)
- Cultural Goods: Antiques and artworks over 50 years old require an export permit from the Spanish Ministry of Culture
💡 Tipp
On the Canary Islands, tobacco, alcohol, and perfume are significantly cheaper due to lower taxes than on the mainland. But beware: Non-EU duty-free limits apply when returning to the mainland!