Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Tobacco Cigarettes → Russia
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-07-25
Tobacco Cigarettes is restricted for travelers entering Russia; declare above the personal allowance.
Details
Tobacco Cigarettes requires declaration at customs (and in some cases an import permit) when carried by travelers into Russia. Federal Customs Service (FTS Russia) applies a personal-allowance threshold per item category; quantities above attract duty + the destination's VAT/GST rate (20%) plus, for select categories, an additional excise tax. EU customs harmonisation and EU Regulation 608/2013 IPR enforcement apply alongside national rules. Travelers should consult Federal Customs Service (FTS Russia) for the current quantity threshold + documentation requirement before departure.
Leaving with this item
Cigarettes for personal use may be exported from Russia freely; destination duty-free allowances (typically 200 cigarettes) govern the arrival side.
Sanctions screening
Russia is named by UK OFSI Russia sanctions. Commercial or high-value movements may require a licence.
Practical advice
Carry Tobacco Cigarettes in carry-on where applicable (medication / lithium battery / valuables). On arrival, walk the Red Channel and declare on the customs form. Federal Customs Service (FTS Russia) computes duty + VAT at the published rate. Have the purchase receipt + (for medication) the original prescription available.
Customs authority
Federal Customs Service (FTS Russia) · https://eng.customs.gov.ru/