Import duty & taxes when importing into France

Overview

Import duty and taxes are due when importing goods into France from outside of the EU whether by a private individual or a commercial entity. The import duty and taxes payable are calculated on the value of the imported goods plus the cost of importing them (shipping and insurance). 

Duty Rates

The duty rates applied to imports into France typically range between 0% (for example books) and 17% (for example Wellington Boots).  Some products, such as Laptops, Mobile Phones, Digital cameras and Video Game consoles, are duty free. Certain goods may be subject to additional duties depending on the country of manufacture, for example Bicycles made in China carry an additional (anti dumping) duty of 48.5%.

VAT Rates

The standard VAT rate for importing items into France is 19.6%, with certain products, for example books, attracting VAT at the reduced rate of 5.5%. VAT is calculated on the value of the goods, plus the international shipping costs and insurance, plus any import duty due. 

Minimum thresholds

When importing goods into France, duty is not charged, if the total value of the goods (not including shipping charges or insurance) does not exceed €150. Neither duty nor VAT is payable if the total value of the goods (not including shipping charges or insurance) does not exceed €22.

Other taxes and custom fees

• Excise duty is payable on for example tobacco and alcohol.
• Additional custom fees can be charged to cover the expense of performing any required examinations, verification and or testing of the imported goods.

Local Customs office and contacts

More information on import declaration procedures and import restrictions you can find at the French Customs website.