A non-EU resident planning on moving to France is also allowed furniture and personal effects free of duty, provided the items have be owned and used for at least six months previously. VAT must be paid on items owned for less than six months and purchased in non-EU countries, while a VAT receipt will be required for those purchased within the EU. You have up to 12 months to complete the shipment of your personal goods, beyond which time VAT will be payable on anything you bring in.

Restricted items

Items subject to restriction or prohibition fall into the following categories: animal products; plants; wild fauna and flora and derived products; live animals; medicines, except prescription items; firearms and ammunition; military-use goods; works of art and collectors’ items.

Restricted: Prescribed (with documentation) and over-the-counter medication for personal use, camera equipment, film, jewellery, and tobacco are not permitted in unaccompanied baggage without an import permit. Alcohol may be subject to quantity limitations.

Some sporting/recreational firearms require a permit, depending upon the intended resident status of the incoming owner. Consult your nearest French embassy, consulate, or hunting/sporting association for additional information.

Prohibited:

• Meat and meat products from Africa
• More than 1kg of animal products, 2kg of salt- or fresh-water products, 5kg of vegetable products
• Illegal drugs
• Pirated editions of copyrighted works
• Thermometers containing mercury
• Firearms and explosives other than those permitted for hunting or shooting practice.

Information courtesy of Living Abroad, www.livingabroad.com