Carrying cash from Japan to Germany
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 Germany, Germany customs authority (EU cash controls) requires a declaration above EUR 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 Germany | EUR 10,000 | EU Cash Declaration Form | Germany customs authority (EU cash controls) |
The same declaration is required on departure. It can be filed on paper at the airport or online through NACCS.
Applies when entering the EU from a non-EU country. No declaration is required when travelling between EU member states.
If you do not declare
Japan: Penalties under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act.
Germany: Cash may be detained and penalties applied under national law.
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; Germany uses EUR.
Sources: rules as of 22 September 2026. This is general information, not legal advice; always check the official authority before travelling.