Kuwait now requires residents and tourists to declare cash amounts exceeding 3,000 Kuwaiti dinars digitally across the coast / Photo: File
Passengers heading to or from Kuwait now have nothing to worry about at the airport. The General Administration of Customs, in cooperation with the Ministry of Communications, has officially integrated the “Currency Declaration” service into the Sahil application.
This is a major step in Kuwait’s digital transformation journey, replacing old manual paperwork with a sleek, user-friendly mobile process. Whether you’re carrying large amounts of cash or valuable jewellery, you can now settle your customs requirements before you even reach the terminal.
Kuwait applies a new rule for monetary declaration
Kuwait has introduced a mandatory electronic cash declaration system that requires all travellers, including residents, citizens and tourists, to declare any cash amounts exceeding 3,000 Kuwaiti dinars (about US$9,700) when entering or leaving the country.
The announcement must now be completed through the Sahl app, the unified government services platform in Kuwait.The General Administration of Customs launched the new system as part of the country’s broader drive towards digital transformation and stricter financial oversight at the border. The rule applies to all entry and exit points, including Kuwait International Airport, land border crossings, and sea ports.
The authorities explained that the limit of 3,000 Kuwaiti dinars applies to the total amount carried, whether in Kuwaiti dinars or its equivalent in foreign currency.
How is this done in Kuwait?
Under the new procedure, travelers carrying more than 3,000 Kuwaiti dinars must submit their declaration electronically through the Sahl application before arrival, before departure, or while at the border checkpoint. Once submitted, the system generates a digital declaration that customs officials can verify immediately.This replaces previous paper disclosure forms and reduces manual processing time. Customs officials can now access real-time data, allowing for faster verification and smoother passenger flow, especially during peak travel seasons such as summer holidays and religious travel periods.The Sahel app already hosts dozens of government services, and integrating customs data into the same platform simplifies compliance for both Kuwaiti citizens and foreign visitors.
Why did Kuwait set a threshold of 3,000 Kuwaiti dinars?
The maximum limit of 3,000 Kuwaiti dinars is in line with international financial transparency standards aimed at combating money laundering, terrorist financing and illicit cash transfers. Many countries impose similar reporting thresholds to monitor the movement of large amounts across borders.The amount of approximately $9,700 reflects a balance between allowing for normal travel spending and identifying unusually large cash movements that require oversight.
The customs authorities confirmed that declaring money does not prohibit carrying it. It simply ensures transparency and compliance with financial regulations.This step also supports Kuwait’s commitments to international anti-money laundering frameworks and enhances the country’s financial reputation globally.
Penalties
Kuwaiti Customs clarified that failure to declare amounts exceeding 3,000 Kuwaiti dinars may lead to legal consequences.
Undeclared funds may be subject to temporary confiscation, investigation, fines, or other legal action depending on the circumstances.The authorities stressed that the advertising process is clear, direct and digital, and leaves little room for excuses. Travelers found to be intentionally hiding money may face more stringent scrutiny and potential prosecution under financial and customs laws.The new system is designed not only to simplify procedures, but also to deter attempts to bypass reporting requirements.
What does this mean for tourists?
For tourists visiting Kuwait, the message is simple: if you are carrying more than 3,000 Kuwaiti dinars in cash, you must declare it digitally before or during entry. For residents and citizens traveling abroad, the same rule applies when leaving the country.This requirement does not restrict bank transfers, card payments or legally authenticated funds. This only applies to physical cash above the specified limit.With Kuwait seeing steady travel flows through Kuwait International Airport and land crossings, the digital system is expected to significantly reduce congestion and improve customs efficiency while maintaining financial oversight.
Wider context
The launch of the electronic cash declaration service reflects Kuwait’s broader efforts to digitize public services. Over the past few years, the government has expanded the Sahil platform to include civil ID, licensing, documentation, and administrative approvals services.By moving customs declarations online, Kuwait joins other Gulf countries adopting digital border management tools to improve transparency, security and operational speed.
