India Gold Jewellery New Customs Rules 2026

India Gold Jewellery Customs Rules Updated duty-free limit

India updated its customs baggage regulations for gold jewellery effective February 2, 2026, introducing major changes for international travelers. The revised rules remove previous monetary value limits on duty-free gold jewellery and replace them with clear weight-based allowances. Passengers of Indian origin, OCI's, NRIs, and residents returning after staying abroad for more than one year can now bring jewellery based solely on weight. Eligible female travelers may carry up to 40 grams of gold jewellery duty-free, while male and other passengers are allowed up to 20 grams without paying customs duty. These new India gold import rules aim to simplify compliance, reduce confusion, and make customs declarations more transparent for travelers arriving from overseas.

India Duty-Free Allowance 2026
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Updated duty-free limits and passenger guidelines effective February 2, 2026.

Overview of the 2026 Rule Changes

Effective February 2, 2026, India revised its customs baggage regulations for gold jewellery carried by passengers arriving from abroad. The revised policy replaces previous monetary value limits with clear weight-based duty-free allowances for eligible travelers.

Key Update: Monetary caps on duty-free gold jewellery have been removed and replaced entirely by weight-based limits.

Duty-Free Gold Jewellery Limits (2026)

  • Female passengers: Up to 40 grams duty-free
  • Male/Other passengers: Up to 20 grams duty-free

These limits apply regardless of the market value of the jewellery carried.

Eligibility Criteria

The duty-free jewellery allowance applies to:

  • Indian residents returning after staying abroad for more than one year
  • Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), OCI Card Holders
  • Tourists of Indian origin who have lived abroad for over one year

Scope of the Jewellery Exemption

  • Applies only to wearable gold jewellery (necklaces, rings, bangles, etc.)
  • Does not apply to gold coins, bars, or biscuits
  • Excess jewellery above limits may be subject to customs duty

General Duty-Free Allowance for Other Goods

The general duty-free allowance for other items such as electronics and gifts has been increased to ₹75,000 per passenger, subject to standard baggage rules.

Declaration Requirements

Passengers carrying gold jewellery beyond the permitted duty-free limits must declare the items at the airport.

  • Use the Red Channel for declaration
  • Failure to declare may result in fines, duty penalties, or confiscation
  • Proper declaration ensures smoother customs clearance

Important Travel Tips

  • Carry purchase receipts or proof of ownership where possible
  • Keep jewellery in personal baggage when feasible
  • Declare honestly if unsure about limits
  • Check airline and customs updates before travel

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the new jewellery rules come into effect?

The revised customs baggage rules became effective February 2, 2026.

Are there still value limits on gold jewellery?

No. Monetary value caps have been removed and replaced entirely by weight-based limits.

Do the rules apply to tourists of Indian origin?

Yes, provided they have lived abroad for more than one year.

Are gold coins or bars included in the allowance?

No. The duty-free exemption applies only to wearable jewellery, not coins, bars, or biscuits.

What happens if I carry more than the allowed weight?

You must declare excess jewellery through the Red Channel and may be required to pay customs duty.

Related

Import Guidelines for Gold & Valuables

How much gold can you bring to India

Traveling to India with Precious Stones

Where Should I Pack My Jewelry When Flying?

Import of Gold and Silver When Traveling to India

Disclaimer: Customs regulations may be updated periodically. Travelers should confirm current rules with official Indian customs authorities before travel.

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India Duty-Free Allowance 2026: Full Duty-Free Guide

Indian Duty-Free Limit Update: Everything Changing in 2026 INR 75000

On a recent trip back to India after years abroad, I stood at the airport wondering whether the electronics and gifts in my suitcase would trigger customs duty. Like many travelers, I had heard rumors about new rules but wasn’t sure what had changed. The good news is that India has officially increased the duty-free allowance for international travelers, making shopping abroad a little easier and less stressful when returning home.

In the Union Budget 2026, India increased the duty-free allowance to ₹75,000 for Indian residents, NRIs, OCI cardholders, and foreigners holding valid non-tourist visas.

India has updated its baggage rules for international travelers in 2026, increasing the duty-free allowance for goods brought into the country. The new limit gives travelers more flexibility when returning from overseas trips, especially those carrying gifts, electronics, and personal purchases. Indian Govt Press Release

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What Is the New Duty-Free Limit in India for 2026

Under the updated Baggage Rules effective February 2026, the duty-free allowance for most international travelers arriving in India by air or sea has been increased to ₹ 75,000 per person. This marks a significant jump from the previous ₹ 50,000 limit that had remained unchanged for nearly a decade.

This allowance applies to the total value of goods brought into India, including electronics, gifts, and shopping purchases. Personal used items such as clothing, phones, and laptops already in use are generally exempt from duty.

Whom Do India’s New Baggage Rules 2026 Apply To?

The updated Baggage Rules 2026, including the new ₹75,000 duty-free limit and stricter customs guidelines, apply to all passengers arriving in India via international flights and sea routes.

  • Indian residents
  • Tourists of Indian origin, NRIs, and OCI cardholders
  • Foreigners with a valid visa (other than tourist visa)
  • Tourists of foreign origin
  • Crew members

India Customs Duty-Free Rules for International Travelers (2026 Update)

The new customs rules aim to simplify travel and encourage tourism and overseas shopping. Key highlights include:

  • Indian residents and tourists of Indian origin can bring goods worth up to Rs 75,000 duty-free
  • Foreign tourists visiting India have a lower duty-free allowance
  • Allowance applies per passenger, not per family
  • Applicable only when arriving by air or sea
  • Separate limits apply to alcohol and tobacco

If the total value of goods exceeds the allowed limit, customs duty will apply on the excess amount as per Indian customs regulations.

New Baggage Rules India 2026: Duty-Free Limit Increased

The 2026 update is the first major revision to India’s baggage rules in almost ten years. The government introduced the new limit to reflect inflation, rising travel costs, and increased international travel.

Other important changes include:

  • Revised guidelines for jewelry allowances based on weight
  • Simplified declaration procedures at airports
  • Clearer rules for electronics such as laptops and tablets
  • Improved transparency in customs assessments

Travelers are encouraged to keep purchase receipts and declare high-value items if unsure about duty applicability.

India Airport Duty-Free Allowance: Latest Changes & Limits

The increased allowance makes duty-free shopping more attractive for international travelers. Whether buying luxury items, gadgets, or gifts, passengers now have more room within the duty-free threshold.

Key points to remember:

  • ₹75,000 allowance per traveler arriving by air or sea
  • No pooling of allowance between passengers
  • Used personal items usually exempt
  • Declare items if unsure to avoid penalties

For frequent travelers and overseas Indians, the new limit offers greater convenience and fewer surprises at customs counters.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the new duty-free allowance start in India?

The new INR 75,000 duty-free allowance came into effect in February 2026 under updated baggage rules for international travelers.

What was the previous duty-free limit in India?

Before 2026, the duty-free allowance for most travelers was ₹50,000, a limit that had been in place since 2016.

Does the ₹ 75,000 limit apply to each person?

Yes, the duty-free allowance applies per individual traveler and cannot be combined with another passenger’s allowance.

Does the allowance apply when arriving by land?

The standard ₹ 75,000 duty-free allowance generally applies only to passengers arriving by air or sea. Land border rules may differ.

Do I need to declare items under ₹ 75,000?

If your total goods are within the duty-free limit and for personal use, declaration is usually not required. However, declaring high-value items can help avoid confusion.

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Traveling to India with Laptops: Custom Rules

Traveling to India With Laptops: Navigating the Do's and Don'ts (Updated 2026)

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Laptop in carry-on luggage at Indian airport

Laptops and personal electronics are now essential travel companions. If you’re flying into India with one or more laptops, knowing current customs rules can save time, money, and stress at the airport. This updated guide explains laptop exemptions, duty rules, and how to clear customs quickly using digital declaration tools.

Can I Bring a Laptop into India?

Yes. Travelers arriving in India can bring laptops for personal or professional use. Indian customs allows passengers to carry personal electronics including laptops in cabin baggage.

  • At least one laptop per traveler is normally allowed for personal use.
  • Laptops should not be intended for resale or commercial import.
  • Used personal laptops rarely create issues if clearly for personal/work use.
  • Carry laptops in cabin baggage for safety and easy inspection.

Personal Laptop Exemption (Separate From Value Limits)

Indian customs provides a specific exemption for personal electronics:

  • One personal laptop/notebook per passenger is generally permitted duty-free.
  • This personal laptop is treated separately from the general baggage value allowance.
  • It should be clearly for personal or professional use.
  • Used/unboxed laptops are far less likely to be questioned.

This exemption applies regardless of the standard duty-free allowance applicable to your traveler category.

Customs Duty on Extra Laptops

If you carry more than one laptop, additional devices may be assessed for customs duty depending on value, condition, and purpose.

  • Extra new or high-value laptops may attract baggage duty.
  • Used laptops for work or study may be allowed with explanation.
  • Duty is typically calculated using baggage rules (often around 38.5% of assessed value).
  • Customs may apply depreciation for used devices.

Always declare high-value or multiple electronics to avoid penalties.

Carrying Multiple Laptops

Travelers can carry multiple laptops, but scrutiny increases with quantity.

  • 1 laptop: normally duty-free personal allowance.
  • 2 laptops: usually allowed if personal + work device.
  • 3+ laptops: may trigger duty or questioning.
  • Sealed/new boxed laptops are most likely to be taxed.

Helpful documentation:

  • Purchase receipts
  • Proof of ownership
  • Employer letter (if work laptop)
  • Evidence of personal use

Electronics & Value Allowance Rules

Outside the personal laptop exemption, other electronics fall under standard baggage valuation rules.

  • Phones, tablets, cameras, and accessories may be assessed together.
  • Reasonable quantities for personal use are generally allowed.
  • Large quantities or multiple identical new items may be treated as commercial import.
  • Duty applies only if customs determines items exceed personal allowance or appear for resale.

Customs officers assess value, quantity, and intent — not just item count.

Advance Baggage Declaration & Faster Customs

Use the ATITHI App

  • Official Indian Customs mobile app.
  • Submit advance baggage declaration.
  • Declare extra laptops or high-value electronics.
  • Reduces airport wait time.

Green vs Red Channel

  • Green Channel: Only if carrying permitted personal items within rules.
  • Red Channel: Use if carrying multiple laptops or high-value electronics.

E-Declaration at Major Airports

Many Indian international airports now support electronic self-declaration kiosks and assisted digital processing, helping travelers clear customs faster when items are declared honestly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a laptop into India?

Yes. One personal laptop per traveler is generally allowed duty-free and treated separately from other baggage value calculations.

Does my personal laptop count toward the electronics value limit?

No. One personal laptop is normally considered a separate personal-use exemption and not included with other electronics.

Can I carry two or three laptops?

Yes, but additional laptops beyond one may be assessed for duty depending on value and whether they appear for personal or commercial use.

Will I pay duty on used laptops?

Often not if clearly for personal or work use. However, multiple or new high-value laptops may still be assessed.

How can I avoid delays at Indian customs?

Use the ATITHI app or declare items at arrival if carrying multiple or expensive electronics. Honest declaration speeds up clearance and avoids penalties.

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Travelling with Medicines to India: Your Ultimate Guide to Avoid Customs Hassles

Navigating Medication Guidelines for Your Journey to India

Travelling with Medicines to India Guidelines

Traveling with medication to India is allowed for personal use, but strict compliance with customs and drug regulations is essential. India enforces pharmaceutical rules through the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and customs authorities.

2026 duty-free allowance Update

Can You Bring Medicines to India?

  • Prescription medicines: Allowed for personal use with valid prescription.
  • Original packaging required: Keep medicines in labeled packaging showing your name and doctor details.
  • Carry a doctor’s letter: Especially important for strong or controlled medications.
  • Recommended quantity: Generally up to a 90-day personal supply.
  • Over-the-counter medicines: Common OTC medicines are permitted in reasonable quantities.

Controlled & Restricted Medicines

Some medicines fall under India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

  • Strong painkillers (opioids)
  • Psychiatric medications
  • Sleeping pills and sedatives
  • ADHD stimulant medications

If carrying these:

  • Carry prescription and doctor’s certificate.
  • Keep quantity limited to personal use.
  • Declare at customs if unsure.

Before You Fly to India

  • Carry prescriptions and medical documents in English.
  • Pack medicines in carry-on luggage.
  • Bring copies of prescriptions.
  • Check Indian Embassy or CDSCO website for updates.
  • For refrigerated medicines, carry cooling packs and documentation.

Tips for Smooth Airport Experience

  • Keep medicines easily accessible in cabin bag.
  • Do not carry large quantities.
  • Declare unusual or controlled medicines.
  • Use original packaging only.
  • Carry medical summary if traveling long-term.

Medication Rules When Travelling to India

Travelling with Medicines to India

Can You Bring Medicines to India?

  • Allowed for personal use with prescription.
  • Carry medicines in original packaging.
  • Bring doctor’s prescription and letter.
  • Recommended: up to 90-day personal supply.

Controlled Medicines

Medications containing narcotics, strong painkillers, ADHD stimulants, or sedatives must be declared and supported by prescription and doctor documentation.

Travel Tips

  • Keep medicines in carry-on baggage.
  • Carry prescriptions in English.
  • Declare large quantities.
  • Bring medical summary for long trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do tourists get duty-free allowance in India?

Yes. Tourists can bring personal belongings duty-free. Items intended for resale or expensive gifts may attract customs duty if above permitted limits.

Can I bring prescription medication to India?

Yes. Travelers can bring prescription medication for personal use with proper documentation and original packaging.

Do I need to declare medicines at Indian customs?

Declare controlled or large quantities of medication. Carry prescription and doctor’s letter to avoid delays.

What medicines are restricted in India?

Narcotics, psychotropic drugs, and strong sedatives are restricted unless accompanied by valid prescription and medical documentation.

How much medicine can I carry to India?

Typically up to a 90-day personal supply is acceptable. Carry only reasonable quantities required for your trip.

Should medicines go in carry-on or checked luggage?

Always pack medicines in carry-on baggage to prevent loss, temperature damage, or delays during travel.

Related Resources

Do you need any vaccinations to travel to India?

Travelling with Medicines to India

Transporting Refrigerated Medication on India Flights

Are Insulin Syringes Allowed on Airplanes? Travel Tips for Diabetics

Peanut Allergies on India Flights

Do airport x-rays affect medications?

Overcoming Air Sickness on Indian Domestic Flights

Bringing Medicines from India

NHS: Travelling with Medicines

CBP: Bringing Medications into the U.S.

INCB: Guidelines for Travelers

Harvard: Tips for Traveling with Medication

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How much gold can you bring to India ?

The Golden Rules 2026: Bringing Gold into India

Traveling with gold—whether jewelry, bars, or coins—offers both excitement and responsibility. India has strict regulations to ensure safe and compliant imports. This guide explains the rules for bringing gold into India, customs duties, and practical tips for travelers, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).

India Duty-Free Allowance 2026

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Gold travel to India

How Much Gold Can You Legally Carry to India?

Indian customs regulations allow travelers to bring gold, with quantity limits based on residency and the form of gold:

  • Indian Residents: Can import up to 1 kg of gold, subject to customs duty.
  • Gold Jewelry (Weight-Based Allowance):
    • Female Passengers: Up to 40 g duty-free
    • Other Passengers: Up to 20 g duty-free

Exceeding these limits requires declaration and payment of duties. Always check the CBIC website for the latest rules.

Gold jewelry for travel to India

Customs Duty on Gold in India

Gold exceeding duty-free limits is subject to:

  • 12.5% Customs Duty
  • 3% GST

Always declare excess gold and carry receipts or certificates of authenticity to simplify customs clearance. Check the CBIC customs tariff for updates.

Can You Carry Gold Bars from the USA to India?

Yes, gold bars or coins can be brought from the USA, within the 1 kg import limit for residents and weight-based jewelry allowances. Declaration is mandatory.

Traveling with Gold to the USA from India

The USA has no specific limit on gold, but any gold valued over $10,000 must be declared to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Failure to declare may lead to penalties or seizure.

Detection and Security Measures

Airport X-ray scanners detect gold easily. Wearing jewelry is allowed, but larger items may be screened separately. Be prepared for security checks.

How Much Gold Can NRIs Bring to India?

  • Gold Jewelry: Duty-free up to 20 g for males, 40 g for females.
  • Gold Bars and Coins: NRIs abroad for over six months can import up to 1 kg, paying 12.5% customs duty + 3% GST. Payment must be in convertible currency.
  • Declaration: All excess gold must be declared at customs.

Consult Indian Customs for official guidelines.

Tips for Traveling with Gold

  • Know both departure and destination country regulations.
  • Carry documentation: receipts, certificates, appraisals.
  • Consider travel insurance for valuable items.
  • Prepare for security: remove jewelry or show items in hand luggage if required.

Final Thoughts: Traveling with gold is straightforward if you understand customs rules and prepare. Whether importing to India or traveling to the USA, declaration and proper documentation ensure a smooth, stress-free journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bringing Gold to India

How much gold can you legally carry to India?

Indian residents who have lived abroad for over a year can bring up to 1 kg of gold, subject to customs duty. Gold jewelry weight-based limits: 20 g for males, 40 g for females, duty-free.

What is the customs duty on gold in India?

Gold exceeding duty-free limits is subject to 12.5% customs duty plus 3% GST. Always check the latest rates with the CBIC.

Can NRIs carry gold to India?

Yes. NRIs can bring gold jewelry (20 g males, 40 g females) duty-free and up to 1 kg of bars/coins if abroad for over six months, paying customs duty.

Can airport scanners detect gold?

Yes, scanners detect metals including gold. Large items may require separate screening at security checkpoints.

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India Gold Jewellery New Customs Rules 2026

India Gold Jewellery Customs Rules Updated duty-free limit India updated its customs baggage regulations for gold jewellery effective Fe...