Traveling to India comes with specific duty-free allowances for goods such as alcohol, tobacco, gold, electronics, and gifts. Exceeding these limits can result in customs duties, penalties, or confiscation. This guide provides updated 2026 rules to help travelers avoid surprises at Indian Customs.
India Duty-Free Allowance 2026Table of Contents
Duty-Free Alcohol on Connecting Flights in India
Basics of Duty-Free Allowance
India’s duty-free allowances, regulated by the Indian Customs Department, permit travelers to bring certain goods without import duty, provided limits are respected. These allowances apply to both residents and non-residents.
Alcoholic Beverages
Travelers aged 19 or older may bring up to 2 liters of alcohol duty-free (spirits, wine, or a combination). Exceeding this incurs a customs duty of approximately 150% on spirits and 100% on beer, plus a 10% surcharge.
Tobacco Products
Duty-free limits per person:
- 100 cigarettes
- 25 cigars
- 125 grams of loose tobacco
Exceeding these limits is subject to customs duty.
Electronics and Appliances
Travelers may bring one laptop duty-free. Other electronics, such as cameras or tablets, are included in the general allowance; excess value is subject to duty.
Gold and Silver
Duty-free limits for jewelry:
- Men: 20 grams (₹50,000 value)
- Women: 40 grams (₹100,000 value)
Exceeding this incurs a 36.05% duty plus taxes.
Currency
Indian currency: up to ₹25,000 per traveler. Foreign currency: amounts above USD 5,000 in cash or USD 10,000 including traveler's cheques must be declared.
Miscellaneous Goods
Other goods (souvenirs, gifts) are duty-free up to ₹50,000 per traveler (₹15,000 from Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, or China). Excess attracts a 35% duty plus taxes.
Customs Duty Limits
Total duty-free allowance for personal goods: ₹50,000 (₹15,000 for travelers from specific countries). Exceeding this limit incurs a 35% basic duty plus IGST and cess.
Calculating Customs Duty
- Excess alcohol: ~150% duty
- Excess gold: 36.05% duty + IGST
- Other goods: 35% duty + IGST
Practical Tips for Duty-Free
- Declare Excess Items: Always declare goods exceeding duty-free limits.
- Avoid Prohibited Items: Narcotics, explosives, and counterfeit goods are strictly banned.
- Keep Receipts: Retain receipts for high-value items.
- Plan Gifts: Ensure gifts stay within duty-free limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much liquor can I bring to India duty-free?
Up to 2 liters of alcoholic beverages (spirits or wine) per person. Excess incurs ~150% duty.
What items are exempt from import duty in India?
Exempt items include 2 liters of alcohol, 100 cigarettes or 125g tobacco, one laptop, and gold up to 20g (men) or 40g (women).
How much gold can I carry to India without custom duty?
Men: 20g (₹50,000 value), Women: 40g (₹100,000 value). Excess duty: 36.05% + taxes.
What is the limit of customs duty in India?
Duty-free limit: ₹50,000 (₹15,000 from specific countries). Excess goods: 35% duty + IGST and cess.
How much duty-free can you take to India?
Goods worth ₹50,000 (or ₹15,000 from Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, China), plus allowances for alcohol, tobacco, and gold.
How much customs duty to pay in India?
Duty varies: 150% for excess alcohol, 36.05% for gold, 35% for other goods, plus IGST and cess.
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