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

Table of Contents

• What Is the New Duty-Free Limit in India for 2026
• Whom Do India’s New Baggage Rules 2026 Apply To?
• India Customs Duty-Free Rules for International Travelers (2026 Update)
• New Baggage Rules India 2026: Duty-Free Limit Increased
• India Airport Duty-Free Allowance: Latest Changes & Limits
• Frequently Asked Questions

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.

India Duty-Free Allowance Guide: Liquor, Gold, & More

Duty-Free Allowance Limits 2026, Customs and Rules in India

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 2026

Table of Contents

• Basics of Duty-Free Allowance
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Tobacco Products
• Electronics and Appliances
• Gold and Silver
• Currency
• Miscellaneous Goods
• Customs Duty Limits
• Calculating Customs Duty
• Practical Tips for Duty-Free

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.

Duty-Free Alcohol on Connecting Flights in India: Rules & Tips

Can you take duty-free liquids on connecting flights?

Duty-free shopping is a traveler’s delight, but navigating the rules for carrying alcohol on connecting flights can be confusing. On a recent trip from Dubai to Mumbai via Delhi, I proudly carried a bottle of duty-free whiskey, only to face uncertainty at the security check for my domestic connection. To help you avoid such stress, this guide explains the rules for carrying duty-free alcohol on connecting flights in India, including limits, packaging, and customs regulations.

India Duty-Free Allowance 2026

Table of Contents

• What is Duty-Free Alcohol?
• Duty-Free Alcohol on Connecting Flights
• Customs Rules for Alcohol in India
• Tips for Travelers
• Frequently Asked Questions

What is Duty-Free Alcohol?

Duty-free shopping allows travelers to purchase alcohol without paying local taxes or duties, typically at international airports or on international flights. According to Wikipedia’s duty-free shop page, these shops offer premium brands at lower prices. However, carrying duty-free alcohol through connecting flights, especially in India, involves specific rules to comply with security and customs regulations, as outlined by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

Duty-Free Alcohol on Connecting Flights

International to Domestic Connections

Yes, you can carry duty-free alcohol on connecting flights in India, but it must remain in a sealed tamper-evident bag (TEB) with the receipt visible, per Air India’s restricted baggage guidelines. The Delhi Airport customs guide states that TEBs are allowed through security if unopened and purchased within the last 24 hours. However, if you exit the international terminal or have a layover exceeding 24 hours, you may need to place the alcohol in checked baggage or face additional screening, as discussed in a Quora thread.

Domestic to Domestic Connections

Duty-free alcohol is generally not allowed in carry-on luggage on domestic flights within India due to the 100 ml liquid restriction enforced by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). You must pack it in checked baggage, as confirmed by IndiGo’s dangerous goods policy. Ensure the bottle is securely packed to prevent leaks.

Customs Rules for Alcohol in India

India’s customs regulations, outlined in the India Baggage Rules, allow passengers to bring up to 2 liters of duty-free alcohol (e.g., spirits, wine) into the country without paying customs duty, provided it’s within the ₹50,000 duty-free allowance. Excess alcohol incurs a duty of approximately 100-150%, per the CBIC Baggage Rules, 2016. Airlines like Emirates advise declaring alcohol at customs to avoid penalties.

Tips for Travelers

1. Keep TEB Sealed: Ensure duty-free alcohol remains in its original tamper-evident bag with the receipt visible.
2. Check Layover Rules: For layovers over 24 hours, verify airport policies, as some require checking in liquids.
3. Contact Airlines: Confirm restrictions with airlines like Air India or IndiGo before travel.
4. Pack Securely: For checked baggage, wrap bottles in bubble wrap to prevent breakage.
5. Know Customs Limits: Stay within the 2-liter duty-free limit to avoid customs duties, per CBIC guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take duty-free liquids on connecting flights?

Yes, duty-free alcohol in sealed tamper-evident bags (TEBs) with receipts is allowed on connecting flights in India if purchased within 24 hours and unopened. Check airport and airline policies.

Can I take duty-free alcohol on a domestic flight?

No, duty-free alcohol cannot be carried in carry-on luggage on domestic flights in India due to the 100 ml liquid rule. It must be packed in checked baggage.

Can I bring alcohol from duty-free to India?

Yes, you can bring up to 2 liters of duty-free alcohol to India within the ₹50,000 duty-free allowance. Excess incurs 100-150% customs duty, per CBIC rules.

How much liquor can I carry in an international flight to India with Air India?

Air India allows up to 2 liters of duty-free alcohol in carry-on (in TEBs) or checked baggage for international flights to India, within the ₹50,000 customs limit.

Can you take duty-free alcohol on connecting flights to India?

Yes, duty-free alcohol in sealed TEBs is allowed on connecting flights to India if unopened and purchased within 24 hours. Domestic connections may require it in checked baggage.

Does duty-free count as hand luggage?

Yes, duty-free alcohol in TEBs counts as part of your carry-on luggage allowance but is exempt from the 100 ml liquid rule if sealed and accompanied by a receipt.

Check out these related articles for more travel tips:

Do You Get Free Alcohol on India Domestic Flights?

Do you get free alcohol on international flights?

Are Drinks Free on Air India International Flights?

Bringing Your Own Booze on India Flights

Can You Bring Alcohol to Gujarat on an International Flight?

Can I Carry Alcohol on Domestic Flights in India?

How Much Alcohol Can You Bring Duty-Free to India

Duty Free Liquor Allowance India

Duty Free Alcohol on Connecting Flights

All You Need To Know About Carrying Alcohol In A Connecting Flight

Buying duty-free alcohol is a travel perk, but can you take it on connecting flights? Rules for duty-free liquids, especially alcohol, vary by country and flight type (international or domestic). This guide covers carrying duty-free alcohol on connecting flights, India-specific regulations, and how to transfer liquids to checked luggage without exceeding weight limits.

Table of Contents

• Can You Take Duty-Free Alcohol in Carry-On Luggage?
• Duty-Free Alcohol on Connecting Flights in India
• Transferring Duty-Free Liquids to Checked Luggage
• Tips for Traveling with Duty-Free Alcohol

Can You Take Duty-Free Alcohol in Carry-On Luggage?

Yes, you can bring duty-free alcohol in carry-on luggage on international flights, but strict rules apply, especially for connecting flights:

• TSA and International Rules: Duty-free liquids over 100 ml are allowed in carry-ons if purchased at an airport duty-free shop and sealed in a Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) with a receipt. The bag must remain unopened during transit.
• Connecting Flights: On international-to-international connections, duty-free alcohol is generally permitted if you stay airside and the STEB remains sealed. However, if you pass through security at a connecting airport, local rules may require placing the alcohol in checked luggage.
• Domestic Connections: In many countries, including the U.S. and India, liquids over 100 ml (including duty-free alcohol) are prohibited in carry-ons on domestic flights. You must transfer them to checked luggage at the connecting airport.

Always check the destination and connecting airport’s security rules to avoid confiscation. For example, U.S. TSA rules require duty-free liquids to be packed in checked bags for domestic connections.

Duty-Free Alcohol on Connecting Flights in India

In India, carrying duty-free alcohol on connecting flights, especially domestic ones, is heavily restricted:

• International to Domestic: Duty-free alcohol purchased internationally can be brought into India in carry-on luggage if sealed in a STEB, but only up to 2 liters per passenger, per Indian customs rules. However, if connecting to a domestic flight (e.g., Mumbai to Delhi), you cannot carry liquids over 100 ml in hand luggage due to domestic security regulations. You must transfer the alcohol to checked luggage at the connecting airport.
• Customs Limits: India allows 2 liters of alcohol duty-free for personal use, but some states (e.g., Gujarat) prohibit alcohol entirely. Check local laws at your final destination.
• Security Checks: At Indian airports like Delhi or Mumbai, security may confiscate duty-free alcohol if you re-enter security for a domestic connection without transferring it to checked luggage.

To avoid issues, pack duty-free alcohol in checked luggage before your domestic flight and ensure compliance with India’s customs limits.

Transferring Duty-Free Liquids to Checked Luggage

Transferring duty-free alcohol to checked luggage is often necessary for connecting flights, but weight allowances can be a concern:

• Checked Baggage Rules: Duty-free alcohol is permitted in checked luggage if securely packed to prevent breakage. Use bubble wrap or place bottles in sealed plastic bags.
• Weight Limits: Most airlines have a 15-23 kg checked baggage allowance for economy class. Duty-free alcohol (typically 1-2 liters, weighing 1-2 kg) rarely exceeds this, but check your airline’s policy to avoid extra fees. For example, Air India allows 20 kg on domestic flights, while IndiGo offers 15 kg.
• Transfer Process: At the connecting airport, claim your duty-free bag at baggage claim (if required), then re-check it with your luggage. Some airports offer duty-free delivery to your final destination, avoiding carry-on issues.

Plan ahead to avoid weight surcharges, and confirm with your airline if re-checking is needed.

Tips for Traveling with Duty-Free Alcohol

To ensure a hassle-free experience with duty-free alcohol on connecting flights:

• Keep Receipts: Retain your duty-free purchase receipt, as security may request proof of purchase.
• Use STEBs: Ensure duty-free alcohol remains in its sealed Security Tamper-Evident Bag until your final destination.
• Check Airline Policies: Airlines like Air India and IndiGo have specific baggage rules. Contact them in advance to confirm restrictions.
• Research Local Laws: In India, states like Gujarat and Bihar have dry laws, prohibiting alcohol possession.
• Pack Securely: Use padded bags or bubble wrap in checked luggage to prevent breakage.

By planning ahead, you can enjoy your duty-free purchases without risking confiscation or extra costs.

Bottom Line
Duty-free alcohol can be brought on international connecting flights if sealed in a STEB, but domestic connections, especially in India, require transferring liquids to checked luggage due to the 100 ml rule. Always check airline and customs regulations, pack securely, and plan for weight limits to avoid issues.

Related Articles

• TSA Liquids Rule – U.S. Transportation Security Administration
• India Customs Baggage Rules – Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
• Duty-Free Shopping Rules – International Air Transport Association
• Air India Baggage Policy

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take duty-free alcohol in carry-on luggage?

Yes, on international flights, duty-free alcohol over 100 ml is allowed in a sealed Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) with a receipt, but it may need to be checked for domestic connections.

Can I carry duty-free alcohol on connecting flights in India?

You can carry duty-free alcohol into India in a STEB (up to 2 liters), but for domestic connections, it must be transferred to checked luggage due to the 100 ml liquid limit.

Can I carry liquor in a connecting flight?

Yes, liquor is allowed in carry-on for international flights if in a STEB, but must be checked for domestic connections in countries like India or the U.S.

How do I transfer duty-free liquids to checked luggage?

Claim your duty-free bag at the connecting airport, pack it securely in checked luggage, and ensure it fits within your airline’s weight allowance (e.g., 15-23 kg).

Are there weight limits for duty-free alcohol in checked luggage?

Yes, duty-free alcohol must fit within your checked baggage allowance (e.g., 15 kg for IndiGo, 20 kg for Air India) to avoid extra fees.

Can I Bring Used Electronics to India?

Indian Customs' Rules For Used Electronic Items

Table of Contents

• Carrying Laptops and Tablets
• How Many Phones Can I Carry?
• How Many Watches Can I Carry?
• Packaging and Documentation Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions

In today’s connected world, gadgets like smartphones, laptops, and tablets are essential for travelers. Whether you’re tracking flight statuses, managing hotel bookings, or staying in touch with family, these devices are indispensable. However, bringing used electronics from the USA to India requires navigating strict customs regulations enforced by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs. This guide outlines the rules for carrying used electronics, including phones, laptops, and watches, to ensure a hassle-free journey.

India’s customs regulations are designed to balance traveler convenience with financial oversight. Used electronics are generally allowed for personal use, but specific limits and documentation requirements apply. Non-compliance can lead to customs duties or confiscation. Understanding these rules, as outlined by the Indian Customs Act, ensures smooth entry into India.

Carrying Laptops and Tablets

Travelers can typically bring one laptop and one tablet (e.g., iPad) along with their personal phone without issues, as these are considered personal use items. However, carrying multiple laptops or tablets may raise questions from customs officials, requiring justification for personal use or payment of customs duties.

• Single Device: One laptop and one tablet are generally exempt from duties as personal items.
• Multiple Devices: Carrying more than one laptop may require a valid reason (e.g., work-related travel) and could incur customs duties based on the device’s value. Check the Customs Duty Guidelines for details.

How Many Phones Can I Carry?

Travelers can carry one personal smartphone without issues, as it’s considered a personal item. However, carrying multiple phones may attract scrutiny from customs officials, especially if they suspect commercial intent.

• Single Phone: One used smartphone is permitted without declaration.
• Multiple Phones: Carrying more than one phone may require proof of personal use or payment of duties. New or sealed phones must be accompanied by purchase receipts to avoid confiscation.

How Many Watches Can I Carry?

Used watches for personal use are generally allowed, but carrying multiple watches may raise questions about commercial intent. Customs officials may assess duties based on the watches’ value.

• Personal Use: One or two used watches are typically exempt as personal items.
• Multiple Watches: Carrying several watches may require justification or payment of duties. Refer to the Customs Regulations for clarity.

Packaging and Documentation Tips

To avoid complications at Indian customs, follow these practical tips for carrying used electronics:

• Carry in Cabin Luggage: Place used electronics like phones, laptops, and watches in your cabin bag to demonstrate personal use during security checks.
• Avoid Sealed Packaging: Sealed or new electronics may be flagged as commercial items, requiring purchase receipts or duties. Used devices should appear used (e.g., no original packaging).
• Documentation: Carry receipts for high-value items to prove legal purchase, especially if questioned by customs officials.
• Research Regulations: Check destination-specific rules via the IATA Travel Centre to ensure compliance with international travel guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a used laptop to India?

Yes, one used laptop is typically allowed as a personal item without customs duties. Multiple laptops may require justification or payment of duties.

How many smartphones can I carry to India?

One used smartphone is permitted without declaration. Multiple phones may require proof of personal use or incur customs duties.

Are sealed electronics allowed in India?

Sealed electronics may be flagged as commercial items, requiring purchase receipts and potentially incurring customs duties. Used electronics in cabin luggage are preferred.

What happens if I don’t declare multiple electronics?

Non-declared electronics exceeding personal use limits may be confiscated, and you could face customs duties or legal action under Indian customs laws.