Most countries impose strict restrictions on the cash that foreign travellers can carry. Such limitations are essential to regulate the cash flow, maintain the integrity of financial systems and most importantly to prevent illegal activities like money laundering and financing terrorism. Each nation has specific limits and regulations for the amount of cash that foreign travellers can carry inside their country. So, having a clear idea about such matters would help you stay away from unwarranted risks.
Even though there are restrictions for carrying cash, travellers are usually free to use digital transactions such as debit cards, credit cards and other electronic payment methods.
France, Italy, Spain, Germany
Indians travelling to European countries like France, Italy, Spain and Germany are allowed to carry up to 10,000 euros. The restrictions regarding the cash that foreign travellers can carry are almost similar in these countries, which are the most visited nations in Europe. In case, you have more cash than what is allowed, you need to declare it and seek prior approval as soon as you enter the country.
United States of America
As per RBI guidelines, Indians can only carry cash up to $3,000 to the United States of America. An amount greater than this can be carried in the form of traveller’s cheque, cards or bank transfers. This measure has been implemented to prevent illegal financial activities.
Canada
Canada is one of the most preferred countries for Indians to visit or migrate to. Indians travelling to Canada can carry not more than 10,000 Canadian Dollars. An amount more than this would be seized by the authorities.
Thailand
The Asian country known for its incredible tourism sector encourages tourists from foreign nations. The income from tourism comprises around 18% of their GDP. Thailand has also imposed limitations on the amount of currency that Indian visitors can carry within their borders. Individuals can carry up to 10,000 Thai Bhat (THB) while families can carry up to 20,000 THB. However, the maximum amount that could be kept at hand has been limited for 50,000 THB.
United Kingdom
Both individuals and travellers who arrive in groups can keep a maximum of 10,000 Pounds in cash. The amount that you carry must be declared as soon as you enter the country. Besides, travellers may have to face penalties if they carry more than what is allowed.
Australia
Australia too has imposed restrictions on the cash that foreign travellers can carry. The limit of currency that a foreign traveller can carry is 10,000 Australian Dollars. Special permission has to be sought to carry more than this amount.
Nepal
Lots of Indian travellers visit the various tourist destinations in Nepal. Those visiting the country can carry up to Rs 25,000 in currency. It must also be noted that currency denominations that exceed Rs 100 are not allowed to be carried inside the country. The Nepali Rupee has a low exchange rate than the Indian Rupee. You could exchange Indian Rs 100 for 160 Nepali Rupees.
Bhutan
While Indian currency is widely accepted in Bhutan, Indian travellers aren’t allowed to carry currency denominations of 500 or more. The exchange rate of the Bhutanese Ngultrum is almost as same as the Indian Rupee. Bhutan has restricted bringing currencies of higher denominations to prevent confusion regarding the exchange rate.
Dubai
Dubai has imposed limitations on the cash that foreign travellers can carry to prevent illegal financial transactions. Indians can carry up to AED 1,00,00 in the country. In case you are carrying more than this, it should be declared to the authorities.