Estonia Cracks Down on Unintentional Customs Violations: What You Need to Know
Penalty for crossing Estonian borders illegally may lead to legal action
In a shift from previous policies, Estonia has expanded its legal provisions to hold individuals and businesses accountable for unintentional customs violations related to EU sanctions against Russia. As of April 27, failing to adhere to sanctions regulations could result in penalties, regardless of whether the violation was committed due tocarelessness, negligence, or recklessness.
According to Voldeamar Linno, the head of the customs control department of the Tax and Customs Board, the sanctions restrictions are comprehensive, making it necessary to consult the sanctions regulations of the Council of the EU against Russia for clarity.
Prior to this policy change, sanctions violations were punishable only if they were intentional. Previously, ignorance of the law exempted individuals from responsibility. However, it appears that this policy has been tightened to encourage proactive compliance.
Penalties for Unintentional Violations
The RBC Group reports that administrative offenses, or misdemeanors, can result in fines of up to 2,400 euros for individuals or 400,000 euros for legal entities. Goods are also confiscated through an expedited procedure. If the goods or cash exceed 10,000 euros, criminal prosecution follows. Repeat offenders may face imprisonment for up to 6 years and fines of up to 40 million euros for legal entities.
Common Customs Violations
A significant number of violations at Estonia's border with Russia in 2024 involved attempts to transport euros across the border. While importing up to 10,000 euros without declaration is allowed for personal use, it's crucial to have proof such as return tickets, hotel bookings, and to avoid hiding money in various places within luggage to avoid smuggling suspicions.
Other common customs violations include exporting car parts, electronics, and motor oils, and transporting goods with a value exceeding 300 euros per unit—which is strictly prohibited.
To ensure compliance, experts advise staying informed about any changes to customs regulations, seeking legal advice, and exercising caution when traveling across borders.
- In response to unintentional customs violations related to EU sanctions against Russia, Estonia has made changes to its policy and legislation, now holding individuals and businesses accountable for such violations.
- Violations of sanctions regulations, previously punishable only if intentional, can now result in administrative offenses or misdemeanors, leading to fines and goods confiscation.
- Repeat offenders may face imprisonment for up to 6 years and fines of up to 40 million euros for legal entities.
- Common customs violations in Estonia include attempts to transport large amounts of cash, exporting car parts, electronics, and motor oils, and transporting goods with a value exceeding 300 euros per unit.
- To avoid penalties and ensure compliance with these expansive sanctions restrictions, experts suggest staying informed about customs regulations, seeking legal advice, and being cautious when traveling across borders.
