Carrying cash from New Zealand 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 New Zealand, New Zealand Customs Service requires a declaration above NZD 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 New Zealand | NZD 10,000 | Border Cash Report (NZCS 337) | New Zealand Customs Service |
| Entering India | USD 5,000 | Currency Declaration Form (CDF) | Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (India) |
The same report is required on the way out. It can be filed online or on paper.
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
New Zealand: Cash may be seized and penalties applied under the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009.
India: Seizure and proceedings under the Customs Act and FEMA.
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
New Zealand uses NZD; India uses INR.
Sources: rules as of 22 September 2026. This is general information, not legal advice; always check the official authority before travelling.