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.
Neither threshold on this route is a cap: you may carry more, but above it the duty is to report the cash, not to keep under the figure. 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.