Carrying cash from Malaysia to India
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 Malaysia, Royal Malaysian Customs Department requires a declaration above USD 10,000. Entering India, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (India) requires a declaration above USD 5,000. The two rules are independent: satisfying one does not satisfy the other.
The two legs
| Leg | Limit | Form | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Malaysia | USD 10,000 | Customs Form No. 7 (K7), Declaration of Cash and Bearer Negotiable Instrument | Royal Malaysian Customs Department |
| Entering India | USD 5,000 | Currency Declaration Form (CDF) | Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (India) |
The same threshold applies on departure. The declaration is required under section 23 of the Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing Act 2001, not under customs duty rules, so it applies whatever the money is for.
Declare foreign currency above US$5,000 held as currency notes, or above US$10,000 counting notes, banknotes and travellers cheques together, on a Currency Declaration Form (CDF) on arrival.
If you do not declare
Malaysia: A fine of up to RM1 million and/or imprisonment of up to one year for failing to declare or making a false declaration.
India: Seizure and proceedings under the Customs Act and FEMA.
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
Malaysia uses MYR; India uses INR.
Sources: rules as of 22 September 2026. This is general information, not legal advice; always check the official authority before travelling.