Flying with cash is common among travelers because it makes purchasing items quick and easy. However, the amount you can carry on a flight is limited. So how much money can you travel with and who makes the rules?

It is legal to carry cash on a plane, but the amount you can carry is limited and varies depending on country policy. Before you travel, you need to understand the regulations for a smooth airport and in-flight experience.

How much money can you travel with?

According to the South African Revenue Service, any traveler entering or leaving the country must have prior authorization from the SARB to travel with an amount exceeding R25,000. Airline regulations align with a country’s safety policies.

International flights have a limit that must be declared to authorities, while domestic flights are generally not subject to such restrictions. Here is an overview of the limits of some countries:

Read also

What is the minimum wage to benefit from car financing in South Africa?

In Singapore, more than 87 people were caught at Changi Airport with undeclared cash worth more than $20,000 in June 2024. The country recommends travelers declare their cash over $20,000 before taking the plane. A statement from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) read:

It is the responsibility of travelers upon arrival to make accurate and complete declarations of dutiable and taxable items in their possession.

To avoid heavy penalties and for their own convenience, foreign travelers and local residents are strongly encouraged to pre-declare and pay for their taxable goods or GST up to three days before arriving in Singapore.

US Customs Cash Limit Per Person

Is it legal to travel with a lot of money? According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), there are no limits on the amount of money or monetary instruments you can carry on flights to the United States. You must nevertheless declare to customs amounts greater than $10,000 per person.

Read also

How long does it take for Shein to ship to the US? Shipping times and what to expect

How much money can you travel internationally with?

The TSA cash limit applies to international travelers flying to or from the United States. The regulations cover all forms of monetary instruments. U.S. Customs and Border Protection defines money as:

Monetary instruments include U.S. or foreign coins currently in circulation, foreign currency, traveler’s checks in any form, money orders, and bearer negotiable instruments or investment securities.

How much money can you travel domestically with?

The TSA does not restrict cash payments on domestic flights within the United States. However, it is advisable to carry documents proving the source and purpose of your money.

Where to put money while traveling

When packing your travel essentials, consider the following tips to ensure your money is safe and avoid being lost or stolen.

• You can carry it in a hidden pouch, like a money belt on your waist or neck.
• Keep it hidden and close to your body at all times.
• Do not place cash in one place.
• Never leave your bags or purses unattended.

Read also

Do you need a passport for Hawaii? Simple answers for US and non-US citizens

How much money can you travel in Europe with?

According to the European Union, you can travel with any money when you land in or leave a European Union country. However, any amount greater than or equal to €10,000 (or the equivalent in another currency) must be declared to customs.

The EU also restricts certain in-flight items and goods of equivalent value, such as:

• Banknotes and coins.
• Coins with a gold content of at least 90%.
• Travelers checks, promissory notes or money orders.
• Bars such as ingots, nuggets or clusters with a gold content of at least 99.5%.

How to declare money when traveling

Declaring cash before travel is often done at customs inside the airport in the arrivals area. In the United States, you must report the excess to Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The process involves:

• Complete the Currency Reporting Form (FinCen 105) online.
• Complete and print FinCen Form 105 before traveling and present it to a CBP officer.
• Ask a CBP officer for a paper copy and fill it out at customs.

Read also

How much does a criminal record certificate cost in South Africa? Latest Fees and Application Process

What happens if you don’t declare your money?

You will be penalized if you fail to report your money or provide an incorrect report. The sanction varies depending on the country. In the United States, CBP sanctions include:

• Confiscation of all cash or monetary instruments.
• A fine of up to $500,000.
• Up to 10 years of imprisonment.

Frequently asked questions

Although traveling with cash is permitted, there is a limit to the amount you can bring on board. Declaring what you own will help you avoid having your money withheld or seized or getting a penalty or fine. Here are some frequently asked questions about cash thefts.

• Is there a limit to traveling with money? There is no limit, but you must report to the authorities if you exceed a certain amount. The limit to be declared differs from country to country.
• Can you fly with more than $10,000 in cash? Yes. Traveling with more than $10,000 in cash is legal, but you must first declare it to customs.
• Is the cash limit $10,000 per person or family in the United States? In the United States, the limit applies to the combined total of a family traveling together.
• Can you carry cash in your pocket through airport security? Yes. You can have the money in your pocket passing through the metal detector or body scanner.
• How much money can you take to the USA? There is no maximum limit, but any amount over $10,000 must be declared to customs upon arrival.

Read also

Average Salary for Flight Attendants in South Africa (2023)

How much money can you travel with? You can carry up to R25 000 into South Africa but you must declare it to customs. In the United States, the limit is 10,000 dollars, while in European Union countries it is 10,000 euros.

ALSO READ: Can you use Bluetooth on a plane? Dos and Don’ts of Wireless Technology

In brief.co.za has published the do’s and don’ts of using Bluetooth on airplanes. Did you know that Bluetooth frequency can sometimes interfere with aircraft communications?

You can use Bluetooth on a plane, but there are restrictions. To ensure an easy and hassle-free flight, learn the rules and guidelines for using Bluetooth on an airplane.

Source: In brief News