Off to Germany in a few weeks via ET.
First time we have travelled this way since the rules changed on 1/01/2021.
What are the rules now for taking gifts ? We want to take our Son and Daughter-in-laws Xmas presents and also my sons birthday present ( thats when we are there ) can see things about meat/dariy/tobacco/alcohol etc but not a limit for the value of goods ?
Can anybody tell me what the limits are say for instance we wanted to buy him a new iphone ?
Would we need to declare this and its value ?
For taking stuff into Germany you would need to look at German rules not UK. You can bring stuff into UK up to value of £390 before you must declare anything & pay vat but Germany might be different.
A quick search finds limit is 430€ worth of goods into Germany before you are required to declare & pay local vat.
In practise though it is doubtful if you would be searched. Once into France then EU borders are open although there can be random checks but unlikely. You can buy an iPhone in Germany of course.
Thanks Billy, I presume the €430 is per person so €860 between the two of us ?
I was just using an iphone as an example but the value of goods doesn’t exceed €860 so I think we should be fine.
Many thanks for your reply.
We've been through the Tunnel 3 times since Brexit, and have never been checked for anything. In fact our recent trip they didn't even ask if the gas was off (it was), they were so keen to get us away.
Not to say they won't check, though. They do pull people over sometimes for random checks.
You can't pool allowances, they are 'personal' so if the figure is €430 any item purchased for more than that is subject to duties and VAT.
However as others have stated the customs checks are minimal, but there is always a risk you are 'the chosen one'!
As we are no longer in the EU it may make more financial sense for you to purchase the items in Germany and claim the VAT back. I've done it in Norway and Iceland and it was straightforwards.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: EU Allowances ?
via mobile 19/9/2022 at 10:13am
