Taking cash / currency out of Germany
Germany requires declaration when leaving with cash and bearer-form negotiable instruments above EUR 10,000 equivalent.
Details
Travellers departing from Germany carrying cash, banker's cheques, bearer bonds, or other bearer-form negotiable instruments totalling EUR 10,000 or more must complete Zoll cash 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 EU Cash Control Regulation 2018/1672 plus criminal prosecution for aggravated cases. Source-of-funds documentation (bank withdrawal receipts, payroll records, sale contracts) may be requested. Legitimate declared movements are not restricted; the requirement is transparency-based to combat money laundering and tax evasion.
Quantity limits
Above EUR 10,000 equivalent triggers declaration
Documentation required
- Zoll cash declaration
- Source-of-funds evidence if requested (bank statement, sale contract, payroll)
The other direction
Bringing cash / currency into Germany(restricted)