Interview with Bakhytzhan Berdibekov, Head of the “Auezhai-Aktau” Customs Post of the Department of State Revenues of the Mangystau Region
Could you please tell us what the main customs rules are for passengers arriving by air?
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov: The main rule is that all goods a passenger brings with them must be intended for personal use (not for commercial activities). When importing by air transport, an increased duty-free limit applies: goods with a value of up to 10,000 euros and a total weight of up to 50 kg. These norms are established by the Decision of the Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission and are uniform for the EAEU countries.
What happens if the limit is exceeded?
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov: In the part exceeding the value and/or weight, customs payments must be paid. The rate is 30% of the excess value, but not less than 4 euros for each kilogram of excess weight. A passenger customs declaration is used for clearance.
What restrictions apply to alcohol and tobacco products?
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov: For persons over 18 years of age:
- Alcoholic beverages and beer — up to 3 liters duty-free. From 3 to 5 liters can be imported with payment of 10 euros for each liter exceeding the norm. More than 5 liters cannot be imported;
- Tobacco products — 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars (cigarillos), or 250 grams of tobacco (or an equivalent combination).
These norms are not included in the general value limit of 10,000 euros and are accounted for separately.
How to handle cash?
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov: An amount equivalent to up to 10,000 US dollars can be imported and exported without declaration. If the amount exceeds this threshold upon import, it is mandatory to fill out a passenger customs declaration. When exporting cash foreign currency from Kazakhstan, there is a direct ban established by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated March 14, 2022, No. 830 “On Measures to Ensure the Financial Stability of the Republic of Kazakhstan”. According to this Decree, the export of cash foreign currency and (or) monetary instruments in foreign currency in an amount exceeding the equivalent of 10,000 US dollars, calculated at the exchange rate of the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the date of export, is prohibited. The ban is unconditional: export of an amount exceeding the limit is not allowed even if a declaration is filled out and the origin of the funds is confirmed. The restriction applies to each passenger separately, including minor children.
When should a passenger go through the red corridor, and when can they use the green one?
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov:
- Green corridor — if there are no goods subject to mandatory declaration and the established norms are not exceeded.
- Red corridor — if there are goods exceeding the limits, cash over 10,000 US dollars, goods requiring permits (for example, some medicines, cultural values, jewelry in a certain quantity), or if the passenger is in doubt.
It is important to understand: choosing the green corridor means that the passenger confirms the absence of goods subject to declaration. Customs authorities have the right to conduct selective control.
What goods are prohibited or restricted for import?
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov: Completely prohibited are narcotic and psychotropic substances, weapons and ammunition (without appropriate permits), explosive substances, toxic and radioactive materials, as well as goods threatening security. Restricted for import are some food products of animal and plant origin (veterinary and phytosanitary requirements apply), certain medicines (documents are required), as well as a number of technical means. Electronic cigarettes have their own restrictions regarding transportation by air.
How should a passenger correctly fill out a passenger customs declaration?
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov: The passenger customs declaration is completed electronically through the “Keden” information system or the “e-Salyq Azamat” mobile application. A paper form can also be used at the airport. The declaration is filled out in Kazakh, Russian, or English. Documents confirming the value and purpose of the goods (receipts, invoices) are attached to it. Clearance for individuals is free of charge.
What advice would you give to passengers to avoid problems at customs control?
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov:
- Familiarize yourself with the current norms in advance.
- Keep receipts for large purchases.
- If in doubt — choose the red corridor and declare the goods.
- Do not try to hide goods or understate their value — this entails administrative liability up to confiscation.
- If necessary, contact the employees of the customs post — we are always ready to explain the rules.
Thank you very much for the detailed explanations.
Bakhytzhan Berdibekov: You’re welcome. I remind you: compliance with customs rules protects both the state and the passengers themselves. Safe and peaceful flights!