Arnold Schwarzenegger's Munich Customs Ordeal Over Undeclared Luxury Watch
In a recent incident at Munich Airport, actor and former Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, faced a significant fine for failing to declare a luxury watch. Schwarzenegger, traveling from Los Angeles to Kitzbühel for a climate conference, was detained by customs officials who discovered the undeclared watch, valued at approximately $28,000.
Schwarzenegger, known for his roles in Hollywood as well as his political career, was subjected to an unexpected delay upon his arrival in Munich. The Austrian-born actor had intended to donate the custom-made Audemars Piguet watch at a charity auction for his Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative. However, during a routine check, customs officials charged him a fine of €35,000 (about $37,900), inclusive of the watch’s value, unpaid import taxes, and a penalty. The actor was required to pay half of this amount in cash, resulting in a visit to a nearby bank, while his partner, Heather Milligan, waited at the airport.
The incident, lasting three hours, involved questioning on personal matters, which Schwarzenegger reportedly found uncomfortable. His charity’s spokesperson criticized the actions of the customs officials, calling the investigation a "comedy of errors" and suggesting that it could inspire a humorous police film. Despite this criticism, Munich Airport customs defended their actions, emphasizing the need for all travelers, regardless of their fame, to declare goods entering the EU.
This event at Munich Airport raises awareness about the importance of declaring luxury items when traveling. Whether it's a vintage Louis Vuitton bag from Tokyo or a Van Cleef bracelet from Dubai, understanding and adhering to customs regulations is crucial. In the US, passengers can bring up to $800 worth of goods without duty, while the EU and UK have stricter limits of €300 and £390, respectively. To avoid similar situations, travelers are advised to check and adhere to these regulations, ensuring a smooth and fine-free journey.
