Either you have purchased something from outside the EU or you’re receiving some gifts from your family and friends. If the package hasn’t been sent properly or it simply doesn’t meet the requirements to pass through on its own, The package will end up waiting (and waiting) for you at the Spanish customs in Madrid.
It might seem straightforward, but retrieving a package from Spanish customs can be surprisingly complex and frustrating. To make things easier, we’ve outlined the process below and included some helpful tips we’ve learned over the years.
If you want to avoid dealing with Spanish customs, check out our article about international shipping to and from Spain to make sure you select a company that handles everything for you!
1. What is the Spanish Customs Office?
Spanish customs is located in Spain’s capital, Madrid. Specifically at the Baraja’s airport. It’s responsible for controlling items and goods that enter and exit the country from outside the European Union. All packages, regardless if they are gifts sent between family members or items purchased online, must go through customs before making their way to their final destination. While in customs, the items could be subjected to taxes or duty fees and will also be inspected by Aduanas to ensure they have met all regulatory requirements. If the items do not pass this inspection, they could be returned to their original location.
2. When and Why a Package will be Held at Customs in Madrid
Reasons that a package might not be released from customs include:
- Exceeding a certain value (typically 150€ or more), which means the receiver will need to pay an import tax before the package can be released
- Missing or incomplete paperwork
- Suspicious content (falsely declared value or falsely declared items)
- The package contains illegal or prohibited items
- Instable or broken packaging
In most cases, customs in Madrid will give the recipient of the package a chance to rectify the issue with the package. For more information on how this works, skip ahead to chapter 4.
3. Making the Customs Process Easier
Whether you’re the one sending or receiving the package, you can avoid complications from the very beginning of your shipping process by following a few very simple tips.
Use a shipping Company that will Handle Customs for you
While more expensive, shipping companies like Correos and ADTPostales will often handle the customs process on their customers’ behalf.
Be Aware of Spain’s Restricted and Prohibited Items
Just because your country might allow something, doesn’t mean Spain or the EU will. Always check with your shipping company before including items that could get your into trouble.
Include a Copy of the Receipt Inside your Package
If the external label is damaged or unreadable, having a copy of the invoice or order confirmation inside the package gives customs another way to verify the contents.
Always Choose to Track your Shipment
Even though it might cost more, using a service that allows tracking helps you to follow your package throughout its entire journey. This usually also allows you to keep in touch with customer support.
Inform the Recipient of the Package Arrival
Surprises are nice, but ensuring that the recipient of the package keeps an eye out for notice letters, claimant forms or notification emails will only help the customs process stay smooth and simple.
Declare the Package Properly From the Start
We understand you might want to save money and avoid taxes. But the consequences of falsely declaring something as a gift or of less value will be more expensive than the initial cost.
4. Step by Step Guide: How to Get a Package Out of Spanish Customs
If you’ve run into the situation where your package is being held at customs in Madrid, you’ll need to follow a few careful steps to ensure it gets released. While the process is always evolving, we’ve done our best to outline the most current and updated process for you in the chapter below. Good luck.
Step 1: Tracking your Package
If you took our advice and chose a tracking service for your shipment, then you’ll be able to see exactly when your package lands in Madrid. You’ll also be able to see if the package has been processed and will continue to its final destination or if it has been flagged and will stay at customs (en tramitación aduanera).
Step 2: Wait for an Official Notification
You will receive an official notification from the Correos office when it’s time to release your package from customs. Depending on the contact information that was provided by the sender, the notice could come in the form of a posted letter, an email or even an SMS.
Important: If you know your package has arrived in Spain be sure to check your inbox/mailbox regularly. These notices have an expiration date and if you miss the window, your package will be returned to its original location.
Step 3: Visit the Correos Aduanas Portal & Submit the Requested Documentation
If you receive an electronic communication, the link to the portal will be included in the message. If not, you can simply follow this link. Once there, you can start the process by indicating the package reference number, which will also be provided in the official communication. If you have a Correos user account you can also manage everything about your package there.
Each situation is unique, but in most cases, the documents you’ll need to provide include the following:
- Scanned copy of your ID (DNI, NIE/TIE, Passport)
- An invoice or receipt to prove that your package matches what was originally declared
- Recipt of payment of any outstanding taxes or duty fees (can be done directly on the portal)
Once done, your submission will be reviewed by Correos. If something is still missing, they will contact you again and if everything is ok they will release your package and send it to your address.*
If there is a complication with sending the package to your address, Correos will send it to the nearest Correos office to that address. Similar to the original customs notice, you will be informed about where you can pick the package up via email, SMS or postal mail.
5. FAQ
Do I have to pay customs duties or taxes?
Yes, if the value of your package exceeds tax-free thresholds (usually €45 for gifts, €22–150 for goods). Correos will inform you of the exact amount.
Can I refuse to pay customs fees?
Yes, but the package will either be returned to the sender or destroyed after a set period.
How long does it take to clear customs in Madrid?
It usually takes 2–5 business days after uploading documents and making payment, but can take longer during busy seasons or if more inspection is needed.
Can I go to the Madrid customs office in person to pick up my package?
No, most packages are cleared online and delivered by Correos. In-person pickup is rare and typically reserved for specific, complex cases.
What happens if I don’t do anything?
If you ignore the customs notice, the package will be returned to the sender or destroyed after approximately 15–30 days.
Are gifts exempt from customs fees?
Only if marked correctly and valued under €45. Anything above that may incur VAT and duty charges.
