Azores - Customs

Azores Customs

Arriving By Yacht

Yachts that have items to declare, or are coming from outside the EU, will have to see Customs (Alfândega).

Length of Stay

The Azores are part of the EU VAT area, so non-EU yachts may be placed under temporary import (TI) and stay for eighteen months before becoming liable for duty.

See Noonsite's EU page for further details on TI.

Because the VAT rate (IVA) here is lower than in mainland Portugal and other EU countries (currently 16% compared to 23% on the mainland and 22% in Madeira), water, fuel, food and pharmacy products are cheaper here. It is also a useful place to officially import a boat permanently into the EU (Mid-Atlantic Yacht Services offer this service).

Other Items

• Firearms must be declared.
• It may also be advisable to declare prescription medications as the Customs authorities can enforce strict regulations concerning the temporary importation of such items.

Importing Spares

No duty is paid on anything ordered in the EU (although it may take a little time to receive your order), but bringing items in from elsewhere can incur additional Customs costs. If you use a courier service (FedEx, DHL etc.) Customs will retain the order at Lisbon airport and want duty and forwarding fees paid before the item is sent on. This can take time and be costly. Try and use post office services instead or do via a chandlery or company such as MAYS.

Last updated: April 2025