Guyana

Specific Information

Duty on household goods: Guyana charges customs duty on all imported goods. Duty rates range from 5% to 20% under the CARICOM Common External Tariff (CET), with some items subject to higher rates. A 14% VAT applies on top of import duties, calculated on CIF value plus duties.

CARICOM membership: Guyana is a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Goods originating from other CARICOM member states may qualify for preferential duty rates with a CARICOM Certificate of Origin.

ASYCUDA World system: Guyana uses the ASYCUDA World electronic customs system. Importers or their customs broker must complete an eSAD and upload supporting documents (invoice, bill of lading, tax exemption letter, import license, etc.).

Excise tax: An excise tax applies to alcoholic beverages (40%), tobacco products (100%), petroleum products (50%), and motor vehicles (rates vary by age, engine capacity, type, and usage). Items subject to excise tax also attract 14% VAT.

Environmental tax: Guyana levies an environmental tax (approximately GYD 10, about USD 0.05) on every unit of non-returnable metal, plastic, glass, or cardboard container of any alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage imported.

ISPM 15: Wood packaging materials must comply with ISPM 15 standards.

Duties & Taxes

Duty-free allowances for personal effects: Individuals may be entitled to duty-free allowances on certain personal effects and household goods. Returning Guyanese nationals and persons establishing residence may qualify for reduced duty rates on used household effects. Confirm specific eligibility with the destination agent or GRA.

Prohibited & Restricted Items

Importing a Used Personal Vehicle

Required Documents

• Original vehicle title or registration
• Commercial invoice or proof of value
• Bill of lading
• Import license (if required)
• TIN registration with GRA

Specific Information

Excise tax on vehicles: Motor vehicles are subject to excise tax. Rates vary widely by age, engine capacity, type, and usage. The excise tax is calculated on CIF value plus import duties and fees. VAT of 14% is then applied on top.

Temporary import: Excise taxes may be waived by the Commissioner General of the GRA for vehicles imported for temporary use. In such cases, goods must be exported within three months and a deposit left with the Commissioner General.

Left-hand drive: Guyana drives on the left side of the road. Both left-hand-drive and right-hand-drive vehicles are found on Guyanese roads, but right-hand-drive vehicles are standard.

Pets

• Import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture (must be obtained prior to arrival)
• Rabies vaccination certificate
• Veterinary health certificate confirming the animal is vaccinated and in general good health
• ISO-compliant microchip (recommended)

Import permit required: All cats and dogs require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture. This must be obtained before the animal arrives in Guyana.

Rabies vaccination: Required for all dogs and cats.

No quarantine (if compliant): Quarantine is not required for animals arriving with proper documentation. However, animals found to have rabies upon arrival must be quarantined.

Livestock and other animals: Livestock and other animals also require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture. Plant materials require a permit from the Plant Quarantine Section.

CDC high-rabies-risk: Guyana IS on the CDC's list of high-risk countries for dog rabies. Dogs returning to the United States from Guyana must meet CDC requirements for dogs from high-risk countries, including the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form (completed before departure from the U.S.), microchip, minimum age of 6 months, and potentially a rabies titer test. Plan return travel requirements before departure.

Special Categories