Whether you’re an Indian expat living in the UAE or just visiting, it’s important to know the cash rules before flying. With millions of people moving between India and the UAE every year, recent airport incidents have brought more attention to how much money you can legally carry across borders. Here are the rules you should know about before your next flight.
Also read: UAE Announces Major Visa Change For Indians
How Much Foreign Currency Can You Carry When Leaving India?
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) sets clear limits on how much foreign money you can take with you. If you’re going to the UAE (or most other countries), you’re only allowed to carry up to $3,000 (about AED 11,000) in foreign currency per trip. However, it is possible to carry more money with you, as long as it’s not in hard cash. You can carry more with you in the form of Prepaid forex/travel cards, Traveller’s cheques or even Banker’s drafts.
but Some destinations have different limits:
- Iraq & Libya: Up to $5,000 in cash is allowed.
- Iran, Russia, and CIS countries: Travellers can carry up to $250,000, but only in foreign currency notes or coins.
- For Indian citizens going for Haj or Umrah: Up to $250,000 in cash is permitted.
Bringing Money Into India? Here’s What’s Allowed
Whether you’re returning home or visiting India, there are different rules depending on what you’re carrying.
Indian Currency:
- Indian residents coming back from a trip abroad can bring up to ₹25,000 in Indian rupee notes.
- Visitors from Nepal or Bhutan can only bring rupee notes in denominations of ₹100 or less.
Foreign Currency (such as AED):
- There’s no limit to the amount of foreign currency you can bring into India.
- But – if the total value of cash, notes, or traveller’s cheques is over $10,000, or if your cash alone is more than $5,000, then you must declare it at customs by filling out a Currency Declaration Form (CDF) when you arrive at the airport.
Don’t Let Cash Confuse Your Trip
If you’re a frequent flyer between India and the UAE just make sure to double-check the limits before you pack your bags. Carrying too much cash without declaring it can land you in legal trouble. And I’m sure that’s the last thing anyone wants before a holiday or a business trip.
Stick to the rules, and you’ll breeze through the airport with no issues!
