Diplomatic Processes: Tax Exemption Program

The importation of articles free of duties and the purchase of items in bonded warehouses are among the privileges which are accorded to the Permanent Missions and their diplomatic staff.

Importation of Personal Effects and Other Articles

Send to Protocol/OAS the following documents:

  • Form DS-1504
  • Specify in the "Carrier-Supplier" box: the name of the ship, the voyage number, and the estimated date of arrival
  • In the "Description of Merchandise" section include the number of boxes and a general description of the cargo (i.e. used household items and personal effects), the address where the cargo will be stored before leaving customs and the importer's delivery address
  • Note in the text of form DS-1504: "PL-486, 82nd Congress"
  • Attach a copy of the airway bill or bill of lading and Notice of Arrival

Bonded Warehouse

Send to Protocol/OAS the following documents:

  • Copy of the Duty-Free form that this office has prepared
  • Please note that the Office of Foreign Missions (OFM) requires that the estimated number of guests be provided if the purchase of liquor is used for a party or reception.

 Tax Exemption Cards

Diplomats and their dependents 18 years or older that are accredited through the Department of State are entitled to a tax exemption card.

To apply for a tax exemption card send the following documents to Protocol/OAS:

Gasoline Tax Exemption

Send to Protocol/OAS the following documents:

  • "Business Application" for a gas card
  • Form DS-99
  • Copy of the tax exemption card of the owner

Tax Exemption on Utilities: Electricity, Gas, Water, and Telephone
Send to Protocol/OAS the following documents:

  • Form DS-98, one for each service
  • Copy of the tax exemption card

*NOTE: Some counties do not grant tax exemption on certain services.