News
EU ups travellers' allowances
10 March 2006
The European Commission has increased the value of goods travellers can bring into the EU.
The changes mean tourists returning from outside the EU by air will be able to bring in 500 (£340) worth of goods without paying duty from the beginning of next year.
This is a massive increase on the amounts people will be able to bring in without tax, currently standing at 175 (£120).
Taxation commissioner Laszlo Kovacs said: "Many of the rules regarding travellers' allowances, which were set down in a directive adopted in 1969, are no longer relevant in today's world and that is why we have come forward with this proposal."
People entering the EU by sea or through land borders have also had a slight increase in their allowance, to 220 (£150).
The decision will come as good news to those heading to the US or the Far East to get some shopping in, be it for fashion or electronic goods.
Limits on perfume, coffee and tea will also be abolished.
© Adfero Ltd
The changes mean tourists returning from outside the EU by air will be able to bring in 500 (£340) worth of goods without paying duty from the beginning of next year.
This is a massive increase on the amounts people will be able to bring in without tax, currently standing at 175 (£120).
Taxation commissioner Laszlo Kovacs said: "Many of the rules regarding travellers' allowances, which were set down in a directive adopted in 1969, are no longer relevant in today's world and that is why we have come forward with this proposal."
People entering the EU by sea or through land borders have also had a slight increase in their allowance, to 220 (£150).
The decision will come as good news to those heading to the US or the Far East to get some shopping in, be it for fashion or electronic goods.
Limits on perfume, coffee and tea will also be abolished.
© Adfero Ltd
