Duty free: what does it mean?
Duty free literally means 'free of tax'. At the airport you buy products without VAT and excise duty — which makes them cheaper than in an ordinary shop. The savings are greatest on alcohol, tobacco and perfume.
At Schiphol you will find the duty-free shops after the security check, in the departure lounges. You can also shop there on your return via Schiphol (tax refund).
Good to know
The duty-free shops at Schiphol are operated by Gebr. Heinemann and Capi-Lux. The well-known 'AH to go' and 'Relay' shops by the gates are regular shops — not duty free.
Duty-free limits for flights within the EU
Are you flying from Schiphol to another EU destination (such as Spain, Italy or Greece)? Then there are no duty-free limits for personal use. You may take as much as you like, provided the goods are not intended for commercial sale.
That said: the shops at EU airports do apply purchase limits per transaction — this is shop policy, not a legal limit.
Duty-free limits for flights outside the EU
Are you flying to a destination outside the EU (USA, Canada, Turkey, etc.)? Then the import rules of your destination apply. Commonly used limits that countries apply:
Alcohol:
- 1 litre of spirits (over 22% alcohol)
- 2 litres of wine or beer (per person, 18+)
Tobacco:
- 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of smoking tobacco
Perfume/cosmetics:
- 50 ml eau de parfum
- 250 ml eau de toilette
Other goods:
- Value up to €430 when travelling by air (per person)
⚠️ The exact limits vary greatly per country — always check the customs website of your destination country.
Good to know
The USA applies an import limit of $800 per person for goods (2025). Anything above that must be declared at customs and may be taxable.
What may you take in your hand luggage from the duty free?
Liquids you buy in the duty free at Schiphol may be taken with you as hand luggage, provided they are packed in a special STEB (Security Tamper-Evident Bag). This is a sealed plastic bag that you receive at the till. Rules:
- The bag must not be opened until you arrive at your destination
- With a stopover outside the EU, the bag may be confiscated by security — check this in advance
Are you buying duty free on your return (already ordered on the outbound flight via Schiphol's pre-order system)? Then you receive it on arrival at Schiphol.
Practical tips for duty free at Schiphol
- Order online in advance via the Schiphol Duty Free website — you collect it at the gate or on arrival
- Pay by credit card for the best exchange rates in foreign currencies
- Do not buy perfume in the arrivals hall — those prices are higher than in the departure lounge
- Keep your receipt in case you are later asked about your purchases at customs
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