What is the duty-free allowance for India in 2026?

The general duty-free allowance for Indian residents returning from most countries remains ?50,000 per passenger as of 2026. A ?75,000 increase has not been officially implemented nationwide.

Can tourists bring personal items duty-free to India?

Yes. Tourists can bring personal belongings duty-free. Expensive items intended as gifts or for resale may be subject to customs duty.

Where should I pack medicines when flying?

Medicines should always be packed in carry-on luggage in original containers with prescriptions for easy access and safety.

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

Q: Can I bring prescription medication to India?

Yes. Prescription medication for personal use is allowed when carried in original packaging with a valid prescription and doctor's letter.

Q: Do I need to declare medicines at Indian customs?

Controlled substances or large quantities of medication should be declared at customs and supported with proper documentation.

Q: How much medicine can I carry to India?

Travelers should carry only reasonable quantities for personal use, typically up to a 90-day supply, along with prescriptions.

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

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.