GRA clarifies that carrying more than two phones into Ghana does not automatically trigger customs duty

Travellers entering Ghana with more than two mobile phones will not automatically face customs duty, the Ghana Revenue Authority's Customs Division has clarified. The key question is whether the devices are genuinely for personal use or are intended for sale, distribution or another commercial purpose.

The clarification followed public reaction to an educational campaign this week. During the campaign, customs officers said travellers arriving with more than two phones would have to pay duty, prompting the authority to explain that officers assess each case individually.

That assessment can include the nature and quantity of the items, whether the phones are already in use, whether they are new and commercially packaged, and how many similar devices a traveller carries. Officers may also examine whether the circumstances suggest an intention to sell or distribute the phones.

The authority said travellers could legitimately carry several phones for personal reasons, including a separate work device or a replacement handset. But several new or similarly packaged phones, especially devices intended for other people, may lead to further questions about whether they qualify as personal effects or should be treated as imports. Travellers who are unsure were advised to declare the items and seek guidance from customs officers at the point of entry.

The Customs Division also reminded passengers leaving Ghana that they may carry up to GH¢500 in Ghanaian currency. Visitors entering the country may bring up to US$10,000, or its equivalent in other foreign currencies and monetary instruments, without declaring it. Amounts above the departure limit may be seized. The guidance forms part of rules linked to the Bank of Ghana's amended foreign-currency guidelines and enhanced anti-money-laundering measures.