BoSS: Travellers Must Declare Cash Above $10,000 at Borders

(JUBA) – The Bank of South Sudan has issued a directive tightening rules on the cross border movement of cash in an effort to strengthen financial oversight, curb illicit flows, and align with regional and international financial standards.

The measures, announced through Circular No. 02/2025 dated 20 August 2025, apply to individuals, commercial banks, licensed foreign exchange bureaus, money transfer operators, border control authorities, and law enforcement agencies. The regulation also extends to foreign exchange and remittance operators operating in South Sudan.

Under the directive, any person entering or leaving the country carrying more than 10,000 US dollars, or the equivalent in other currencies, must declare the amount in writing using the official Cross Border Currency Declaration Form, which is available at all airports, border posts, and entry points. At the current official exchange rate of 4,600 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) to one US dollar, the declaration threshold is equivalent to about 46 million SSP.

Travellers are required to present proof of the source and intended use of the funds, such as a bank withdrawal slip, invoice, or remittance confirmation. The declaration must be verified by customs or border officials, who will forward copies of the records to the Bank of South Sudan.

Financial institutions moving amounts exceeding 50,000 US dollars, equal to about 230 million SSP, must obtain prior approval from the central bank. They are also required to maintain detailed records of such transactions and submit monthly reports to the Directorate of Supervision and Financial Stability.

The circular prohibits practices such as failing to declare cash above the threshold, splitting transactions to avoid reporting, using unlicensed couriers, or attempting to move counterfeit currency. Violators risk having undeclared funds seized, facing forfeiture proceedings, losing operating licences, and potential criminal prosecution under the Anti Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing Act.

The Bank of South Sudan emphasised that enforcement agencies, including customs, border control, and security organs, are mandated to detain undeclared or suspicious cash for investigation and share data with the Financial Intelligence Unit for improved coordination.

According to the central bank, the measures are aligned with global standards, including the Financial Action Task Force’s recommendations on cash couriers, as well as regional guidelines developed under the East African Community, IGAD and COMESA frameworks.

Governor Dr Addis Ababa Othow said the regulation is part of broader efforts to safeguard the integrity of the financial system and strengthen transparency in South Sudan’s economy. The directive came into effect immediately on 20 August 2025.