Bringing souvenirs into the country: what you must be aware of

Souvenirs from holidays are popular. However, not all goods purchased in the destination country are allowed to return home. Here you will find the most important provisions for importing souvenirs.

In tourist regions in particular, the souvenirs business is an important part of the local economy. Whether from sellers on a beach, at markets or in shops, the souvenirs on offer are tempting at every corner. In the euphoria of the holiday, it is quickly forgotten that the traveler bears responsibility for imported goods, and that breaches can involve serious sanctions. We’ll show you what you need to bear in mind when shopping in other countries.

Examples of products requiring a license

• living plant material (plants, fruits, vegetables, tubers, cut flowers, seeds, etc.) from outside the EU
• live animals
• leather and skins of many animal species
• antlers/horns of unprotected wild animals and domestic animals
• corals

New regulations covering the import of goods have been in force in Switzerland since July 1, 2014. Particular caution is called for when it comes to sensitive products such as imitations, food, plants and animals. It is worthwhile studying the actual laws in order to avoid unpleasant situations at customs and any criminal sanctions. All information without guarantee.

Examples of safe souvenirs

• Glass or stone jewelry
• Wire or sheet metal products 
• Items made of FSC wood
• Wickerwork (belts, bracelets, small mats)
• Stone sculptures
• Textiles made of wild silk or plant fibers

What do I need to be aware of when collecting shells abroad?

Summer, sun and sand – and ideally you’d like to take a little bit of that holiday feeling back home with you. A couple of shells, a bottle full of sand or a few pretty little pebbles. But be careful, as many countries do not permit the removal of sand or shells from a beach. In some regions of Italy, you could be faced with fines of up to EUR 3,000.

Are there countries where collecting shells is not permitted?

Yes, countries such as Italy, France, Greece, Iceland or the UK, for example, do not permit the removal of sand or shells. The best thing is to find out locally what is and what is not permitted, as fines are often draconian.

If, for example, you collect shells in Sardinia or remove sand as a souvenir, this may have wide-ranging consequences, as any change to sandy beaches is penalized there and may lead to a fine of between EUR 500 to EUR 3,000.

Importing shells: Can the Swiss customs authorities create problems?

Ordinary bivalve molluscs (beach goods) should not cause problems when imported. However, for certain species the quantity allowed is limited, for example:

• max. 3 kg shells of giant clams
• max. 3 queen conch shells
• max. 4 seahorses

Conclusion: Restraint when it comes to importing souvenirs

If you can’t make sure that a souvenir is OK, don’t take it. Enjoy the destination during your vacation! Take great photos of flora and fauna – but leave everything where it is. This preserves the unique beauty of nature for future generations.