Carrying cash from Japan to Australia
Two separate rules apply to any cash journey: one where you leave, one where you arrive.
Do you need to declare?
Yes: and on both legs of the journey. Leaving Japan, Japan Customs requires a declaration above JPY 1,000,000. Entering Australia, AUSTRAC requires a declaration above AUD 10,000. The two rules are independent: satisfying one does not satisfy the other.
The two legs
| Leg | Limit | Form | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Japan | JPY 1,000,000 | Declaration of Carrying of Means of Payment | Japan Customs |
| Entering Australia | AUD 10,000 | Cross-Border Movement: Physical Currency Form | AUSTRAC |
The same declaration is required on departure. It can be filed on paper at the airport or online through NACCS.
Declare A$10,000 or more moving into Australia, counting Australian and foreign currency together.
If you do not declare
Japan: Penalties under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act.
Australia: Significant fines; undeclared cash may be seized.
There is no limit on how much you may legally carry in either direction, the duty is to report it, not to keep under it. Failing to report is the offence.
Currencies
Japan uses JPY; Australia uses AUD.
Sources: rules as of 22 September 2026. This is general information, not legal advice; always check the official authority before travelling.