Before heading abroad, two questions come up almost every time: how much cash can you take without taking a risk, and above what amount do you have to declare it to customs? Here are the rules that actually apply and our concrete tips for getting ready to leave from Paris.
The customs rule to know: the €10,000 threshold
The rule is simple and very real. When you enter or leave the European Union with a sum in cash (notes and coins, but also traveller's cheques and certain negotiable bearer instruments) equal to or greater than €10,000, or its equivalent in another currency, you must make a mandatory customs declaration.
A few practical points to keep in mind:
- The threshold is assessed per person and per trip, in both directions: when arriving in and when leaving the EU.
- For travel within the EU, a declaration obligation may also exist at the request of the authorities during a check.
- The declaration is not a tax: declaring costs nothing. It is the failure to declare that exposes you to penalties, and even to the funds being withheld.
- The threshold takes into account all bearer means of payment, and not only banknotes.
In practice, the vast majority of travellers stay well below this ceiling. But if you are carrying a significant sum (a purchase on site, a family event, a long stay with a double budget), remember to arrange the declaration with customs ahead of your departure.
What is a reasonable amount to take?
There is no magic number: the right amount depends on your destination, the length of your stay and local payment habits. A few useful benchmarks:
- Countries where cash dominates (many destinations in Asia, Africa and Latin America, or certain rural areas): plan for more cash, as small shops, taxis and markets rarely accept cards.
- Highly digitalised countries (Northern Europe, major cities, the United States): a modest amount is often enough, as cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- The balanced rule: keep enough cash for the first 24 to 48 hours (transport from the airport, meals, tips, unexpected expenses), then top up on site if needed.
Arranging your currency exchange before departure spares you the airport bureaus, which are often less favourable and rushed. You can prepare your currencies in advance and come and pick up your notes in store, from among more than 53 available currencies.
Cash, card or withdrawing on site?
The safest combination rests on three pillars: a reasonable amount of cash to get started, an international payment card, and the ability to withdraw from local ATMs. Be careful, however, of foreign withdrawal fees and the automatic conversions offered by some ATMs: it is generally better to be charged in the local currency rather than in euros.
Keeping your money safe during the trip
Carrying cash calls for a few common-sense precautions:
- Spread out your cash: never keep everything in one place. Some on you, some in your cabin baggage, a reserve in the hotel safe.
- Use a money belt or an inside pocket for large sums, especially in busy tourist spots.
- Note down your useful numbers: card cancellation, your bank's contact details, and keep a copy of your supporting documents in case of a customs check.
- Keep your exchange receipts: a receipt issued by an authorised exchange office proves the origin of the funds if customs question you.
- Avoid flashing big wads of notes in public and favour small denominations for everyday purchases.
Why prepare your currency exchange before departure
Changing your currency in France, at a trusted establishment, offers several advantages: a transparent over-the-counter rate, notes received immediately, and the peace of mind of arriving at your destination already equipped. Paris Change, an exchange office authorised by the ACPR (Banque de France), welcomes you at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel, 75005 Paris, in the heart of the Latin Quarter (Saint-Michel metro line 4, RER B and C Saint-Michel–Notre-Dame).
The establishment offers commission-free exchange, provides more than 53 currencies and lets you book online and then pick up in store. Another asset that is rare in Paris: we are open 7 days a week, Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., ideal for a last-minute departure. The rates displayed are indicative over-the-counter rates, liable to vary each day.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to declare €9,000 in cash to customs?
No. The declaration obligation only applies from €10,000 (or the equivalent in foreign currency) when entering or leaving the European Union. Below this threshold, no declaration is required, but keep your exchange receipts.
Does declaring more than €10,000 cost money?
No, declaring is free. It is not a tax but a control formality. On the other hand, failing to declare a sum above the threshold can lead to penalties and the funds being withheld.
Is it better to change money in France or on arrival?
Changing money in France, at an authorised bureau, spares you the often unfavourable airport rates and saves you time on arrival. You set off with your currency in hand and a receipt proving its origin.
Get ready for your trip with peace of mind: book your currencies online and come and pick them up at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel, 7 days a week, commission-free.
