(JUBA) – The Bank of South Sudan has introduced new measures requiring travellers and financial institutions to declare large amounts of cash when entering or leaving the country. The directive, which took effect on 20 August 2025, is aimed at tightening oversight of cross border money transfers, strengthening monetary policy and combating financial crimes.
The regulation requires any person carrying more than 10,000 US dollars, or its equivalent in other currencies, to declare the amount in writing at border posts, airports and all official entry and exit points. At the current official rate of 4,600 South Sudanese pounds (SSP) per dollar, the threshold translates to about 46 million SSP.
Travellers are also expected to provide proof of the source and intended use of the cash. Acceptable documents include invoices, bank withdrawal slips, or remittance confirmations. A customs officer will verify the declaration, keep a copy, and forward one to the Bank of South Sudan.
For financial institutions such as banks, licensed forex bureaus, and money transfer operators, stricter rules apply. Any attempt to move more than 50,000 US dollars (equivalent to 230 million SSP) across borders requires prior approval from the central bank. Institutions must also maintain accurate records and submit monthly reports to the Bank of South Sudan’s Directorate of Supervision and Financial Stability.
Declaration Thresholds and Requirements
| Category | Threshold | Equivalent in SSP (at 1 USD = 4,600 SSP) | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals (Travellers) | USD 10,000 | SSP 46,000,000 | Written declaration with proof of funds |
| Financial Institutions | USD 50,000 | SSP 230,000,000 | Prior approval from BOSS + reporting |
The bank has prohibited several practices, including failing to declare funds above the threshold, splitting large sums into smaller amounts to evade reporting, using unlicensed couriers, transporting counterfeit money and engaging in unauthorised foreign exchange trading.
Border and security agencies have been ordered to enforce the regulation strictly. They are mandated to detain undeclared or suspicious cash while investigations are carried out. Any violation must be reported immediately to both the Bank of South Sudan and the Financial Intelligence Unit.
Penalties for non compliance include seizure of undeclared funds, forfeiture under applicable laws, suspension or revocation of licences, and potential criminal prosecution under South Sudan’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act.
The Bank of South Sudan stated that the new rules are consistent with global standards, including Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations, as well as regional monetary cooperation agreements under the East African Community, IGAD, and COMESA.
Dr Addis Ababa Othow, the Governor of the Bank of South Sudan, signed the circular in Juba.
