Mobile phone
AllowedPhones are allowed; multiple new units may be queried.
Rules vary by destination and the official customs or border authority makes the final decision, so verify before you travel.
Visual reference
Reference images are being added for this item.
What this means
A mobile phone is a handheld smartphone or cellphone containing a built-in lithium battery. One phone for personal use is allowed virtually everywhere and is carried in the cabin, though some countries can inspect devices at the border or regulate imports of multiple or new handsets. Be aware that customs and border officials in many countries may ask to inspect or unlock a device.
What's included
- Smartphones (iPhone, Android handsets)
- Basic feature phones and dual-SIM phones
- Built-in lithium-ion phone batteries
- Phone chargers and cables
- A small number of personal handsets
- Phone with installed SIM or eSIM
What's not included
- Satellite phones, which are banned or restricted in some countries (see satellite-phone)
- Two-way radios and walkie-talkies (see two-way-radio)
- Smartwatches (see smartwatch)
- Power banks and spare batteries (see power-bank)
Common types & examples
Personal smartphone
One personal handset is allowed in the cabin essentially worldwide.
Multiple or new phones
Several units or sealed new phones may be treated as commercial and dutiable.
Device inspection
Border officers in many countries may inspect or ask to unlock a phone.
Encryption-sensitive destinations
A few countries regulate encryption; consider a clean device for sensitive travel.
Why it's regulated
Phones carry lithium batteries that pose an aviation fire risk in checked baggage, and multiple or new handsets can attract import duty; border agencies in many countries also have authority to search electronic devices.
Typical allowance
Travelers can generally carry one personal phone without duty under a personal-effects allowance; the number that counts as commercial and any import tax vary by destination.
Provisional — confirm with your destination
Before you travel
Documents you may need
- Purchase receipt for high-value or new phones
- Proof-of-prior-possession registration to re-enter duty-free (e.g. U.S. CBP Form 4457)
Next steps
- 1.Carry your phone in hand luggage
- 2.Keep a receipt for a high-value or new phone
- 3.Check whether your destination restricts certain devices or encryption
- 4.Declare multiple or new phones that could be seen as commercial
- 5.Be prepared that border officers may inspect your device
Official sources
- Safe Travel with Lithium Batteries· IATA
- CBP authority to search electronic devices at the border· U.S. CBP
- CBP Form 4457 - Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad· U.S. CBP
Always verify with the official authority for your destination.
Country-specific rules
The default posture above applies worldwide. For the exact rules at your destination, check the country guide.
View country rules →