Login/Create Account
Ramadan gifts to relatives abroad: How to use the CN22 form to avoid excessive fees
With the arrival of the blessed month of Ramadan, many Muslims living in Germany and other European countries are keen to send traditional Ramadan gifts such as dates, sweets, clothing and cultural products to their relatives and friends abroad.
However, sending these gifts by post or courier is subject to customs and value regulations that determine whether duties or taxes will be charged.
1. What is the CN22 form?
The CN22 form is a simple customs declaration that is attached to postal parcels sent from one country to another, especially when the value of the contents does not exceed €425.
The form contains details about the contents of the parcel and their value and is used to facilitate customs procedures and reduce the risk of unnecessary customs charges.
2. Why should you use the CN22 form for Ramadan gifts?
-
When sending Ramadan gifts, it must be clear that the parcel contains personal, non-commercial gifts.
-
The CN22 form helps customs authorities in the destination country to assess the parcel correctly and not to impose excessive customs duties or taxes.
-
It increases the chances that your gifts will arrive quickly without delays due to complicated customs procedures.
3. How to fill in the CN22 form correctly
-
Describe the contents accurately: For example, write “Dates – Ramadan gift” or “Oriental sweets – gift”.
-
State the real value of the contents: Do not overstate or understate the value in order to avoid problems with customs.
-
Tick the “Gift” box: Use the designated field to indicate that the contents are a gift.
-
Provide clear sender and recipient details: Name, address and, if possible, contact information.
-
Make sure the form is attached visibly on the parcel so that customs officers can easily see it.
4. Value and quantity limits for duty-free gifts
-
If the value of the parcel is up to €45:
-
It is usually exempt from customs duties and taxes in many countries.
-
Using the CN22 form makes it easier for customs to treat it as a gift.
-
-
If the value exceeds €45:
-
Customs duties and value-added tax may be charged, depending on the rules in the destination country.
-
Stating that the parcel is a gift can simplify the process but does not always guarantee full exemption.
-
5. Tips for successfully sending Ramadan gifts
-
Use small or medium-sized parcels to avoid the suspicion of commercial shipments.
-
Choose well-packaged products to ensure that the gifts arrive in good condition.
-
Check the import regulations of the destination country, especially regarding food products.
-
Keep a copy of the invoice or receipt to support the declared value if customs ask for proof.
6. What happens if you do not use the CN22 form?
-
Parcels may be significantly delayed due to extended customs inspections.
-
There is a higher chance of additional or higher customs duties and taxes being imposed or even refusal of entry for the parcel.
-
It becomes more difficult to prove that the contents are personal gifts rather than commercial goods.
Summary
| Point | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Use of CN22 form | Necessary for parcels with a value ≤ €425 |
| Description of contents | Accurate and clear, including the word “gift” |
| Declared value | State the real value to avoid problems |
| Parcel | Well packed and of reasonable size |
| Customs delays | Using CN22 reduces the risk of customs delays |
By following these steps, you can send Ramadan gifts to your loved ones safely and easily, while avoiding excessive fees and taxes that might delay or hinder the delivery of your gifts.
The editorial team of the website strives to provide accurate information based on extensive research and consultation of multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some information may be incomplete or not fully verified. Therefore, please regard the information in this article as an initial reference only and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed and up-to-date information.
