A 26-year-old Cuban citizen was recently apprehended at Panama Pacifico International Airport after authorities discovered $12,000 in undeclared cash. The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, had arrived on a flight from Havana, as reported by local news outlet Destino Panamá.
During the routine baggage inspection, officials decided to conduct a secondary check due to suspicions of irregularities. This incident is part of a broader trend, as authorities also reported intercepting six foreign nationals, including Spanish and Cuban individuals, carrying a total of $92,000 in undeclared funds from flights originating in Havana.
The Panamanian authorities are emphasizing the necessity for travelers to adhere to customs regulations, particularly concerning the declaration of cash upon entry, to avoid any legal repercussions or penalties.
In a similar event in June, a Cuban woman was caught with a large amount of undeclared cash at the same airport. The National Customs Authority of Panama revealed that a routine check led to the confiscation of $10,406, exceeding the legal limit for undeclared cash entry into the country.
Earlier in August, the situation echoed in Mexico City International Airport where two Cuban nationals were detained for carrying over two million Mexican pesos in cash without being able to substantiate the source.
Understanding Panama's Cash Declaration Requirements
What is the legal limit for undeclared cash entry into Panama?
Travelers entering Panama must declare any cash amount exceeding $10,000 to avoid penalties and legal issues.
What happens if you fail to declare cash in Panama?
Failure to declare cash exceeding the legal limit can result in confiscation of the money, fines, and potential legal charges.