How much money can I take out of the country? Full analysis of cash carrying limits in various countries
As international travel gradually resumes, many tourists are beginning to plan outbound travel itineraries. However, cash carrying limits vary greatly from country to country, and failure to understand this in advance may result in fines or confiscation. This article summarizes the latest cash carrying regulations in popular tourist countries around the world, and attaches a structured data table to help you travel compliantly.
1. China Customs regulations on carrying cash out of the country

According to the regulations of the China Administration of Foreign Exchange, carrying cash when leaving the country must comply with the following standards:
| currency type | Limit (equivalent) | Declaration requirements |
|---|---|---|
| RMB | 20,000 yuan | Declaration required for exceeding the limit |
| foreign currency banknotes | USD 5,000 | A "carrying permit" is required if the limit is exceeded |
2. Cash carrying restrictions in popular tourist countries
The following are the regulations of 10 common destination countries (data source: latest customs policies of various countries in 2023):
| country | Limit (USD equivalent) | special request |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 10,000 | Written declaration is required for exceeding the limit |
| South Korea | 10,000 | Declaration required upon entry |
| thailand | 20,000 | Group tourists need to declare separately |
| USA | 10,000 | Failure to declare may be confiscated |
| EU countries | 10,000 | Applies to all member states |
| Australia | 10,000 | Traveler's checks included |
| Canada | 10,000 | Including other financial instruments |
| singapore | 20,000 | Land entry limits are lower |
| United Arab Emirates | No upper limit | Need to prove source of funds |
| United Kingdom | 10,000 | Contains virtual currency |
3. Suggestions on how to deal with excess cash limit
1.Declaration in advance: Most countries allow the entry of excess cash, but a declaration form is required;
2.dispersed carry: Carrying family members separately can reduce the risk;
3.electronic payment: Recommended to be used with credit card/travelers’ checks;
4.keep credentials: Bank withdrawal records can prove the legal source of funds.
4. Typical case warnings
In August 2023, a Chinese tourist was fined 20% of the excess amount for failing to declare US$25,000 in cash he carried with him in Thailand. In September of the same year, a passenger traveling to the United States failed to declare the amount of US$12,000 he brought, and his cash was temporarily detained by the customs for three months.
5. Expert reminder
Data from the International Anti-Money Laundering Organization (FATF) show that undeclared cash seized by global customs in 2023 increased by 17% year-on-year. Travelers are advised to:
• Check the latest policies of the destination country before departure (some countries update monthly);
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use dual-currency credit cards instead;
• If you must carry large amounts of cash, it is recommended to apply for the "Exit Permit for Carrying Foreign Exchange" in advance.
Through compliance management of cash carry, you can not only ensure the safety of funds, but also avoid legal risks during travel. It is recommended to save the form in this article and check it before traveling!
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