STERLING, Va. — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations (OFO) at Washington Dulles International Airport seized $22,415 from a Pakistani citizen Wednesday for violating federal currency reporting regulations.
The man, who arrived on a flight from Qatar, repeatedly declared possessing only $12,000 or $13,000. While examining the passenger’s luggage, CBP officers discovered an envelope concealed in a pair of pants containing $9,000. The man also had $13,415 on his person. CBP officers seized the $22,415 and advised the traveler how to petition for the return of his currency.
There is no limit to how much currency travelers can import or export; however federal law requires travelers to report to CBP amounts exceeding $10,000 in U.S. dollars or equivalent foreign currency.
“Travelers who refuse to comply with federal currency reporting requirements run the risk of having their currency seized, and may potentially face criminal charges,” said Christopher Hess, CBP Port Director for the Port of Washington. “The traveler was given the opportunity to truthfully report his currency. The easiest way to hold on to your money is to report it.”
In addition to currency enforcement, CBP routinely conducts inspection operations on arriving and departing international flights and intercepts narcotics, weapons, prohibited agriculture products, and other illicit items.
Travelers are encouraged to visit CBP’s Travel website to learn rules governing travel to and from the U.S.
The Privacy Act prohibits releasing the traveler’s name since he was not criminally charged.