How to Declare Cash and Valuables Online When Travelling to or from the UAE

Travelling to or from the UAE with Over Dh60,000? How to Declare Cash and Valuables Online

Whether it’s for business, investment, or personal travel, carrying large sums of cash or high-value items across borders comes with legal responsibilities. In the UAE, passengers must declare cash, jewellery, or other valuables worth more than Dh60,000 when entering or leaving the country.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has made this process quick and convenient through the Afseh online platform and mobile app, ensuring compliance while streamlining border procedures.

Who Must Declare?

According to ICP regulations:

• Threshold: Any passenger aged 18 or older must declare if the combined value of cash, cheques, jewellery, or precious stones exceeds Dh60,000.
  
• Airports Covered: The Afseh online declaration currently applies to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah International Airports.
  
• Minors: Travellers under 18 are exempt from filing their own declaration; their items can be included under a parent or guardian’s declaration.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Afseh

1. Create an Account and Log In

• Visit declare.customs.ae or download the Afseh app (iOS/Android).
  
• Log in using UAE Pass for automatic pre-filling of your Emirates ID, visa details, and personal information.
  
• Provide your contact and address details. If you’re a UAE resident, include your emirate, city, street, and building information. Non-residents must provide their country, city, and contact number.

2. Submit a Customs Declaration Form

• From your dashboard, select ‘Apply for a new declaration request’.
  
• Enter travel details, including:
  
  • Type of travel: arrival or departure
    
  • Date of travel
    
  • Emirate and port of entry/exit
    
  • Mode of transport (air, sea, or land)
    
  • Airline and ticket number
    
• Describe and value the items you are declaring:
  
  • Choose declaration type (currencies, personal goods, jewellery, or precious stones)
    
  • State the exact amount or value
    
• Click ‘Submit’ to send your application.

3. Await Approval

• ICP will review your request.
  
• If approved, you’ll receive both an SMS and a notification on the Afseh platform.
  
• Approved declarations are stored under ‘Approved Requests’ in your dashboard for easy access.

Key Points to Remember

• Free Service: There are no fees for submitting a customs declaration.
  
• Transparency Matters: This rule is not intended to limit your right to carry cash or valuables, but to ensure transparency in line with anti-money laundering regulations.
  
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failing to declare amounts over the legal limit could result in confiscation, fines, or legal action.

Why Compliance Is Important

This regulation supports the UAE’s efforts to combat illicit financial flows and protect the integrity of its financial system. For travellers, using the Afseh platform means avoiding delays at customs and ensuring a smooth journey.

Al Kabban & Associates advises both individuals and businesses on UAE customs, financial compliance, and travel related legal matters. If you require guidance on declarations, asset transfers, or cross-border transactions, our team is ready to assist. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us at +971 4 453 9090 or visit www.alkabban.com. 

You can also follow us on social media for more updates on everything law related in the UAE: @Alkabban_Law

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