"Tips for avoiding delays in the customs import clearance process"

"For every traveler entering Cuba, the moment of clearing their importation at the national Customs, commonly known as 'going through Customs,' is always a cause for concern."

"Unless you enter Cuba carrying only your personal effects (which is very uncommon), along with goods exempt from duty and goods worth up to 50 pesos, you will need to go through customs clearance for your importation."

"Most Cubans who leave the country usually return with a quantity of goods that requires customs clearance and the corresponding payment of customs duties. This is also the case for Cubans residing outside the national territory who come to the island to visit family and friends they have in the nation."

"In all cases where the procedure of customs clearance cannot be avoided (when the passenger does not go through the Green Channel at the airport), what the arriving Cuban desires most is always to spend as little time as possible in customs clearance, to minimize the time taken for the valuation of their goods, and to "clear customs" as quickly as possible."

"The time you spend inside the airport, dealing with customs and immigration procedures, is time that every passenger is annoyed to lose. Therefore, we believe that the information we are providing you with is valuable, in order to avoid delays in your customs clearance. We offer you some advice that will undoubtedly be useful to you."

"We suggest:"

"Please fill out the Customs Declaration for Passengers correctly and clearly, which will be given to you during your flight to Cuba. If you are not given this declaration on the plane, you have the option to request a declaration form from an official of this entity once you are in the Customs Hall."

"Carry medications and other items that are exempt from payment in separate and independent packages from the rest of the luggage. Other items that are exempt from payment include: wheelchairs; disposable adult diapers; scientific, technical, art, and literature books; materials for the visually impaired, religious articles. In the case of minors, all items for their entertainment, care, and feeding are exempt from payment."

"Please bring the household or durable goods, which do not qualify as miscellaneous, separated from the rest of the items that make up your luggage. Not taking this into account is one of the main causes of delays for passengers."

"Try to ensure that your importation stays within the authorized limit of 1000 pesos."

"Avoid importing items that are not allowed entry into Cuba."

"-Do not bring items that are subject to prior permissions without having the corresponding Authorization Document."

"-Do not bring quantities of the same item that may be considered commercial in nature."

"Immediately report to the Customs Inspector conducting the clearance if you are traveling with shared luggage (luggage belonging to more than one passenger, combined in one or more packages)."

"-Do not carry parcels for other people, nor drugs, even if it is for personal use."

"Bring the food you want to import in your carry-on luggage, with you on the plane."

"To the best of your ability, try to keep these tips in mind. They are all aimed at helping you contribute to the efficiency of your customs clearance and avoiding the unnecessary inconvenience of an unwanted delay at the airport premises."

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