Taking cash / currency out of Ecuador
Ecuador requires declaration when leaving with cash and bearer-form negotiable instruments above USD 10,000.
Details
Travellers departing from Ecuador carrying cash, banker's cheques, bearer bonds, or other bearer-form negotiable instruments totalling USD 10,000 or more must complete the SENAE currency declaration at customs before boarding. This threshold aggregates all currencies at exchange-rate parity. Failure to declare is grounds for seizure of the entire cash amount under Ley Orgánica de Prevención de Lavado de Activos; SENAE regulations plus criminal prosecution for aggravated cases. Source-of-funds documentation may be requested. Legitimate declared movements are not restricted; the requirement is transparency-based to combat money laundering and tax evasion.
Quantity limits
Above USD 10,000 triggers declaration
Documentation required
- SENAE currency declaration
- Source-of-funds evidence if requested (bank statement, sale contract, payroll)
The other direction
Bringing cash / currency into Ecuador(restricted)