Splitting cash among family members to avoid disclosure is a violation

KUWAIT CITY, May 21: Kuwait’s Customs Department has urged travelers to declare cash and negotiable financial instruments worth KD3,000 or more, warning that attempts to avoid disclosure by splitting money among family members or multiple bags could lead to legal action.


In an awareness advisory issued in coordination with the Government Communication Center, customs authorities stressed that financial disclosure measures are designed to protect travelers and facilitate smoother travel procedures during security checks at Kuwait’s ports.

The administration said passengers carrying cash or negotiable financial instruments equivalent to KD3,000 or above in any foreign currency must disclose the amounts to customs authorities before travel.

Authorities warned that distributing funds among relatives or separating them into different luggage to evade declaration requirements is considered a violation that may expose offenders to legal accountability.

Customs officials advised travelers to declare funds transparently, keep documents proving the source of the money, and avoid concealing or splitting amounts to prevent delays or legal complications.

The administration said declarations can be submitted electronically in advance through the Sahel app by selecting the “Financial Disclosure” service, or via the official General Administration of Customs website under “Electronic Services” and “Electronic Funds Declaration.”

Travelers may also complete the declaration process directly through the Financial Investigations Office at customs ports while traveling.