Do we really need to fill out a personal declaration form (and take it to the local customs office) prior to leaving for france? Really?
For hand-held electronic games, watches, jewelry (wedding rings), camera?
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
No.
Posted by
Los Angeles, California
1986 posts
The only reason we used to do that was if we had something valuable which was very new- which the Customs would possibly claim we bought on our trip, and require import duty. Even then it was suggested that a copy of the purchase invoice (in the USA) would be sufficient. So only need to be concerned if you may have something questionable
Posted by
Washington, DC, USA
571 posts
Laura, I've never done that and have never heard of anyone doing it. Where did you hear or read that it might be necessary?
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5557 posts
No one travelling with normal tourist stuff does this. Years ago, they used to advise that be done for things like Japanese made cameras, Swiss watches, etc. that you had purchased in the U.S. The whole point was to have proof that you did not buy the items abroad so that you would not have to pay duty when entering the U.S. Now, foreign-made electronics, watches, etc. are readily available in the U.S. Plus, no one goes to France to buy electronic goods to bring back to the U.S. In some 30 years of travel, I've never filled out such a form and customs has ever asked me about my camera, computer, or anything else I brought with me from the U.S.
Posted by
Texan in CA
4408 posts
Uh, double post; you've probably already seen my answer. AKA 'ditto'! Matt, you're probably too young...;-)