The EU and Switzerland have now waived the requirement for an ATA Carnet for musicians hand-carrying their own instruments for the purpose of performing at an event or concert.
In the EU only, this dispensation also extends to accessories such as amplifiers or microphones, provided such accessories are carried by the traveller together with the musical instrument. The traveller should therefore use the green “nothing to declare” channel on arrival.
Musicians may refer to the following regulations if encountering problems at the border:
Please also note that the above dispensation does not apply to portable musical instruments which are to be used for any other purposes, such as for servicing, tuning, repairs, valuation or possible sale.
When travelling, musicians are advised to carry copies of their performance/engagement contracts, as well as proof of ownership of instruments, a CITES certificate (if applicable), and to ensure they accompany their own instruments at all border crossing points.
What if I am transporting my musical instruments via freight forwarder/haulier?
It is still recommended that musicians obtain an ATA Carnet when their musical instruments are shipped by a freight forwarder/haulier or under transport contract. The new dispensation only refers to musicians who are hand-carrying their own instruments.
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