Import fees are taxes charged by a country when foreign items are brought into the country. Regardless of how you travel or where you travel, there will be some form of customs that the items must pass. Luckily, you have a few options to avoid import fees.
Know the import limit. Most countries have a limit on the value of items that can be brought into the country free of import fees. Some countries will allow you to bring in $100 worth of items before import fees will be charged. You may also be able to bring in a set quantity of items free of import fees. As long as you are under the limit, you can avoid import fees.
Shop duty free stores, where you do not have to pay the import fees. These stores are often located in airports and are sometimes available via the Internet. While this is a great way to purchase things that exceed the import limit and still avoid import fees, you will need to make sure that they are handled correctly. Otherwise, your newly acquired items may be confiscated by customs.
Use your items. Some countries will not charge an import fee on items that you have possessed and used for a set amount of time. If you plan to go this route, you must take all tags off the items and make sure you have no proof of purchase. This is most easily accomplished on articles of clothing.
Move to the country. If you really like a country's goods and you want to avoid import fees, it might be a better option for you to move to that country. Be sure to pick a good place for friends and family to visit.
Get diplomatic immunity. The best way to avoid import fees is to not be held to the laws. Marriage or adoption into a political family of a foreign country is really the best way to get diplomatic immunity.
