customs

I will be travelling to the DR in January and I am going to visit my sponsored child. Of course, I have many gifts for him and his family and I have recently learned that it is permissible to bring in $100 of gifts and anything over that amount will be taxed. Of course, I have more than $100 in gifts. A few questions: Is this $100 per person (I am going with my husband) and what proof of gift value do I need? Receipts are necessary? What is the rate of taxation on let's say $250 worth of gifts? I would pay anything because this visit is going to be priceless to us. Please advise and thanks in advance!

You read the news brief wrong (see www.dr1.com/daily/news111899.shtml). There is a tax exemption of US$1,000 on gifts, but you need to be a Dominican citizen to get this exemption. Nevertheless, at Christmas time, Customs people are very flexible about gifts brought in, especially toys. I would not be concerned about the taxes to be paid, if any on US$250 on gifts. Most of them could be part of your personal luggage and unless wrapped will not even be considered as gifts.

How wonderful! I hope you have a great stay, and blessed visit! Que chevere!

Rob, it is a superb thing you are doing, sponsoring a child and have gifts for him and his family. Please be aware of the airline baggage allowance you may have for your trip to the island, check with your airline. The air carriers during this travel period most likely will have an embargo on. It is usually a restrictive baggage allowance. [how restrictive it is depends on: when you check in, (travel class: 1st, business, coach, economy coach) kind of day the ticket agent is having]

Dominicans taking the holiday advantage of the $1000 US gift tax exemption travel home with as many gifts they can carry + more. This holiday behavior strains the baggage (cargo) carrying capacity of the airlines forcing them into strict baggage allowances. I have seen people forced on some occasions to fly home and leave packages at the departure airport. If you have more baggage than your allowance, it may be wise to ship it to the island in advance of your travel. Also, it is suggested you not giftwrap your gifts prior to your visit. Airport security, the airlines, and Customs frown on wrappings for obvious reasons. They want to see how generous you are.

Well, bless you for your generosity. May you all have a wonderful holiday season.

Regards, PJT