PROHIBITED GOODS Applying for permission to import tobacco

​​Applying for permission to import tobacco products​

You will need a permit to import the following tobacco products:

• cigarettes
• shisha/molasses tobacco
• loose-leaf tobacco for use in pipes or roll-your-own cigarettes
• 'heat-not-burn' tobacco products, including heat sticks and IQOS.

Heat-not-burn tobacco products are also controlled under Regulation 5A of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956.

You do not need a permit to import:

• cigars
• chewing tobacco and snuffs intended for oral use under 1.5kg
• any tobacco in unaccompanied personal effects provided that you:
  • are 18 years of age or older
  • declare any tobacco product; and
  • pay duty and taxes that apply on arrival into Australia.

Tobacco permit conditions

Tobacco permits are subject to the following conditions:

• you must be 18 years of age or older
• applicable tobacco products can only be imported through air or sea cargo and cannot be imported through international mail (post). See: The difference between air or sea cargo and international mail​.​
  
• tobacco products imported for personal use must not be sold, distributed, supplied or exported
• all tobacco products sold within Australia must comply with packaging requirements. See Tobacco product and packaging requirements | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

Tobacco permits are not transferable. This means that your family and/or friends cannot use your permit to import tobacco.

Failure to adhere to the conditions of the permit may result in the permit being revoked.

The ABF may place additional conditions on an importer based on their individual circumstances.

Application for permission to import tobacco