Brazil launches automated customs clearance to speed up airport arrivals

Brazil has introduced a new automated customs clearance system designed to accelerate the arrival process for international air travellers while maintaining border security and customs oversight, as reported by Agência Brasil.

The digital service, which became operational on 27 July, automatically processes eligible Electronic Travelers’ Customs Declarations submitted by passengers arriving by international flights. The initiative forms part of the Federal Revenue Service's wider programme to modernise customs administration through risk-based digital screening.

Under the previous procedure, travellers declaring goods above the duty-free allowance were generally required to visit a customs desk before leaving the airport. The new system enables many declarations to be approved electronically, allowing low-risk passengers to exit the customs area without attending an in-person inspection.

After a declaration is submitted online, the system evaluates the information using automated risk-management criteria. Where no irregularities are detected, the declaration is registered immediately. Passengers whose declarations require further verification will continue to be referred to customs officers for inspection under existing procedures.

The authorities emphasised that the reform does not change the legal obligation to declare goods. Travellers exceeding duty-free limits or carrying items subject to taxation or customs controls must still complete the electronic declaration as required by Brazilian legislation.

Officials also stressed that automation will not weaken customs enforcement. Border authorities retain full powers to inspect baggage, review declarations, assess duties and taxes, and carry out additional checks whenever necessary.

The new approach is expected to reduce queues at international airports by allowing customs officers to focus on higher-risk cases while routine declarations are processed digitally. According to the authorities, the initiative follows internationally recognised risk-management practices already used in other areas of customs administration and is intended to improve efficiency without compromising border controls.