🇪🇬 Egypt— Cash & Currency
Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA) — part of Egyptian Tax Authority
2026-04-25
Declaration Threshold
US$10,000
EGP
You must declare to customs if you are carrying cash, traveler's cheques, money orders, or negotiable bearer instruments totaling above this amount when entering or leaving Egypt.
What Must Be Declared
| Instrument | Declaration Required |
|---|---|
| Physical currency (any currency) | Yes, if above threshold |
| Traveler's cheques | Yes, if above threshold |
| Bank drafts / money orders | Yes, if above threshold |
| Bearer bonds / negotiable instruments | Yes, if above threshold |
| Credit cards / debit cards | Generally no |
| Electronic payment apps | Generally no |
Failure to declare
Carrying undeclared cash above the threshold can result in seizure of funds, fines, and in some jurisdictions criminal prosecution. When in doubt, declare.
Additional Country Notes
- 01Egypt has strict foreign currency regulations — the Egyptian Pound (EGP) is a managed currency and there are restrictions on taking large amounts of EGP out of the country.
- 02VAT (القيمة المضافة ضريبة) standard rate is 14%.
- 03Egypt has been implementing a significant economic reform program and import rules have been in flux — verify current rules before commercial import.
- 04Tramadol is one of the most heavily enforced controlled substances at Egyptian borders — even small personal quantities without documentation can result in arrest.
- 05Consumer drones are a significant enforcement priority at Egyptian airports including Cairo International, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh — confiscation is common.
- 06Cultural heritage export is strictly controlled — genuine antiquities cannot be legally removed from Egypt. Purchasing at reputable licensed dealers is essential for any ancient artifacts.
- 07Egypt is a party to the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) — preferential tariffs apply for qualifying goods from member states.
- 08The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program facilitates trusted commercial importers.