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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Can we bring sealed Phones to India?

Bringing Sealed Phones to India: Latest Rules, Duties & Travel Tips (2026)

iPhones

Traveling to India with sealed electronics such as iPhones, Android phones, or iPads is common in 2026, but many travelers are still unsure about Indian customs rules. Whether you are bringing a new phone for personal use or as a gift, knowing the latest duty-free limits and customs duties can help you avoid delays, penalties, or unexpected charges at the airport. This updated guide explains current Indian customs regulations for sealed phones, tablets, and other electronics when arriving from the USA or any international destination.

India Duty-Free Allowance 2026

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Can You Bring Sealed Phones to India?

Yes, travelers can bring sealed phones to India in their baggage. However, all new items — including sealed phones — are counted toward your total duty-free allowance. If the total value of new items exceeds the permitted allowance, customs duty must be paid on the excess amount.

Carrying multiple sealed phones may also raise questions from customs officers, especially if it appears you are importing them for resale. Always be ready to declare high-value electronics and show receipts if requested.

Can I Bring a Sealed iPhone to India?

Yes. You can bring a sealed iPhone to India for personal use or as a gift. There is no rule banning sealed phones, but the value of the device will be included in your duty-free baggage allowance. If your total new items exceed the allowed limit, duty will apply on the excess value.

Travelers typically face no issues bringing one phone within their allowance. Bringing several sealed iPhones may result in duty charges and additional questioning.

Can I Carry a Sealed iPad from the USA to India?

Yes, sealed tablets like iPads can be carried into India. The same customs rules apply as with smartphones. The value of the iPad will be added to your duty-free allowance calculation, and any amount exceeding the limit will be taxed.

Do You Have to Pay Customs Duty on Phones?

You only need to pay customs duty if the value of new items you are carrying — including sealed phones — exceeds your duty-free allowance. Used personal electronics already in use are generally not counted.

If duty applies, it is usually charged on the value exceeding the allowance and must be paid at the airport before exiting customs.

Current Duty-Free Allowance for India (2026)

As of 2026, the Indian customs duty-free allowance for most international travelers arriving from countries like the USA is:

  • ₹75,000 per adult passenger (staying abroad more than 3 days)
  • No separate allowance for minors for high-value electronics

This allowance covers all new items combined — phones, laptops, watches, gifts, and other electronics. If the total value exceeds ₹75,000, customs duty applies only to the excess amount.

How Many Sealed Phones Can You Carry?

There is no fixed official limit on the number of phones you can carry. However:

  • One phone in personal use is normally not questioned
  • Additional sealed phones count toward your duty-free allowance
  • Multiple boxed phones may be treated as commercial quantity

If carrying several devices, declare them and be prepared to pay duty if required.

iPhone

Buying a Phone Abroad to Bring to India

Buying phones in the USA and bringing them to India can be cheaper, but keep these points in mind:

  • Customs duty: Payable if total new items exceed allowance
  • Warranty: Some US models may not have full warranty coverage in India
  • Network compatibility: Ensure support for Indian 4G/5G bands
  • Receipts: Always carry purchase invoices

Customs Duty Rate on Phones (2026)

If you exceed your duty-free allowance, Indian customs typically charges a flat baggage duty of about 38.5% on the excess value. This includes basic customs duty and applicable taxes.

Example:

  • Allowance: ₹50,000
  • Phone value: ₹90,000
  • Excess: ₹40,000
  • Duty (~38.5%): about ₹15,400

Can Phones Go in Checked Luggage?

Phones and devices with lithium batteries should always be packed in carry-on luggage. Most airlines prohibit lithium battery devices in checked baggage due to safety regulations. Keeping them in your cabin bag also reduces risk of theft or damage.

Smart Travel Tips

  • Keep all electronics in hand luggage
  • Carry purchase receipts or invoices
  • Declare high-value items honestly
  • Avoid carrying multiple boxed phones
  • Turn on at least one phone for personal use

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a sealed phone to India?

Yes. Sealed phones are allowed, but their value counts toward your duty-free allowance. Duty applies if you exceed the limit.

How many phones can I carry to India?

You can carry multiple phones, but only items within your ₹50,000 duty-free allowance are tax-free. Extra value may attract duty.

Do I need to declare a new phone at Indian customs?

Yes, if the total value of new items exceeds the allowance or if carrying multiple sealed phones. Declaration helps avoid penalties.

What is the customs duty on phones in India?

Duty on excess baggage value is usually about 38.5% of the amount exceeding the duty-free allowance.

Is one personal phone allowed without duty?

A used personal phone in use is generally not charged. New boxed phones are counted toward your duty-free allowance.

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How much worth of gifts can I bring to India

How Much Worth of Gifts Can I Take to India?

Bringing gifts to India is a wonderful way to share your travels with loved ones. To avoid surprises at customs, it’s essential to know the updated 2026 duty-free allowances for gifts, jewelry, electronics, alcohol, and other items. This guide breaks down the current rules for Indian residents and tourists of Indian origin.

India Duty-Free Allowance 2026

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Duty-Free Allowance for Gifts

According to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), travelers can bring gifts and personal items without paying customs duties up to the following limits:

  • Adults (18+ years): Goods worth up to ₹75,000 (~$900 USD) duty-free.
  • Children (up to 10 years): Goods worth up to ₹15,000 (~$180 USD) duty-free.

Prohibited items, including firearms, narcotics, and counterfeit goods, are excluded from these allowances. These limits help prevent commercial imports under personal baggage.

Special Items and Duties

Jewelry and Precious Metals

Previously, jewelry had a value-based limit, but in 2026, India uses **weight-based allowances**:

  • Female passengers: Up to 40 g of gold jewelry duty-free.
  • Other passengers: Up to 20 g of gold jewelry duty-free.

Excess quantities are subject to customs duty, currently around 38.5% for gold. Silver jewelry and other precious metals may also require declaration if above personal limits.

Alcohol and Tobacco

Passengers can bring:

  • Up to 2 liters of alcohol
  • 100 cigarettes or 25 cigars, or 125 g of tobacco

Exceeding these amounts incurs duties, usually 100–200% of the item’s value. More details are available in the Delhi Airport Customs Guide.

Electronics and High-Value Items

Laptops, cameras, and other electronics can be included within the duty-free limit if considered for personal use. Items exceeding the limit must be declared, with duties ranging from 28–45% depending on the item type.

Tips for Packing Gifts

  1. Keep Receipts: Proof of purchase helps customs verification.
  2. Limit Quantities: Avoid multiple identical items that may appear commercial.
  3. Pack Accessibly: Place gifts where customs officers can easily inspect them.
  4. Check Restrictions: Review prohibited items on the CBIC website.

Final Thoughts

Bringing gifts to India is stress-free with proper planning. Stick to the duty-free limits, declare excess jewelry or high-value items, and keep receipts handy. For official updates, consult the Embassy of India or CBIC websites. Enjoy gifting and safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much worth of gifts can I bring to India?

Adults: up to ₹75,000 duty-free. Children under 10: up to ₹15,000. Excludes prohibited items.

How much jewelry can I carry to India?

Female passengers: up to 40 g gold. Other passengers: up to 20 g gold. Excess is taxed at 38.5%.

Can I bring alcohol or tobacco as gifts?

Yes: up to 2 liters of alcohol and 100 cigarettes/25 cigars/125 g tobacco. More than this incurs duty.

Do electronics count toward the duty-free limit?

Yes. Laptops, cameras, and similar items count toward the ₹75,000 limit and must be declared if exceeding personal use thresholds.

What happens if I exceed the duty-free limit?

Customs will levy duties on excess items. Rates vary: gold ~38.5%, electronics 28–45%, alcohol/tobacco 100–200%.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on India Baggage Rules 2026

FAQs on Indian Baggage Rules and India Customs 2026

Navigating India’s baggage rules and customs regulations is essential for a smooth arrival at international airports like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru. These rules cover duty-free allowances for electronics, gold, alcohol, and personal items. Travelers typically have 15–30 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of carry-on, depending on the airline. Customs require declaring items exceeding duty-free limits, such as foreign currency over USD 5,000 or goods valued above ?50,000. Prohibited items include narcotics, counterfeit goods, and certain wildlife products. Understanding these guidelines ensures a hassle-free entry into India.

India Duty-Free Allowance 2026

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India baggage rules illustration

Free Baggage Allowance

Q: What is the free baggage allowance for international passengers flying into India?

A: Checked baggage allowance varies by airline and class, typically 15–30 kg. Carry-on is limited to 7 kg (55x35x25 cm). Economy class usually has 23–25 kg, business class up to 32 kg. Always verify with your airline.

Air India Baggage Policy

Electronics

Q: Can I bring electronics into India?

A: One laptop per traveler is duty-free. Other electronics (phones, cameras, tablets) have a combined value limit: ?45,000 for residents, ?50,000 for tourists. Exceeding these limits incurs customs duty (35–40%).

Customs Declaration Form

Medicines

Q: Are there restrictions on bringing medicines into India?

A: Personal-use medicines are allowed with a valid prescription or medical certificate, typically up to a 3-month supply. Narcotic or psychotropic drugs require prior approval from Indian authorities.

Narcotics Control Bureau Guidelines

Gold and Jewellery Allowances 2026

Q: Can I carry gold or jewellery when traveling to India?

A: India now applies weight-based limits for jewellery brought by residents and tourists of Indian origin:

  • Female passengers: up to 40 g duty-free
  • Other passengers: up to 20 g duty-free

Exceeding these limits requires declaration at the Customs Red Channel and applicable duties. Silver jewellery is still restricted to 100 g. Always carry purchase receipts for verification.

Related: Indian Customs Department

Alcohol and Tobacco

Q: What are the regulations for carrying alcohol and tobacco into India?

A: Travelers 21+ may bring 2 liters of alcohol duty-free. Tobacco allowances: 100 cigarettes, 25 cigars, or 125g loose tobacco. Exceeding requires declaration at the Red Channel.

Pets

Q: Is it possible to bring pets into India?

A: Yes, with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from AQCS. Health certificates, rabies vaccination, and microchipping are mandatory.

Declaring Items Over Duty-Free Allowance

Q: How can I declare items over the duty-free allowance?

A: Declare at Customs Red Channel, fill out a declaration form detailing the items and value. Duties range 10–40% depending on item type.

Prohibited Items

Q: What items are prohibited from being brought into India?

A: Narcotics, pornography, counterfeit currency, infringing IP goods, endangered species, and certain agricultural products.

Lost or Delayed Baggage

Q: What should I do if my baggage is delayed or lost?

A: Report to the airline’s baggage desk, provide claim tags, and complete a PIR. Airlines provide tracking and compensation.

Foreign Currency

Q: How can I carry foreign currency into or out of India?

A: No limit, but declare amounts over USD 5,000 (cash) or USD 10,000 (cash + traveler's cheques).

Food Items

Q: Can I bring food items into India?

A: Packaged foods for personal use are allowed but must be declared. Dairy, meat, seeds, and fresh produce are restricted.

Carrying Currency When Leaving India

Q: What is the process for carrying large amounts of currency when leaving India?

A: Residents can carry up to ?25,000. Foreign currency must not exceed declared limits on entry.

Drones

Q: Are drones allowed to be brought into India?

A: Yes, with DGCA compliance. Drones must be declared, may require UIN or permission.

Artwork and Antiques

Q: How can I bring artwork or antiques into India?

A: Artworks/antiques over 100 years require documentation of age and value. Declare to customs.

Commercial Items

Q: What should I do if I'm bringing items for commercial purposes?

A: Declare items at Customs Red Channel with valid import license and invoices. Duties vary by product type.

Customs regulations in India

Understanding these FAQs ensures compliance with India's baggage rules and customs, making your travel experience seamless and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions – India Baggage & Customs Rules

1. What is the free baggage allowance for international passengers flying into India?

The free baggage allowance varies by airline and travel class, typically 15–30 kg for checked baggage. Carry-on luggage is usually limited to 7 kg with dimensions up to 55 x 35 x 25 cm. Always confirm with your airline.

2. Can I bring electronics into India?

Passengers can bring electronics for personal use. One laptop per person is duty-free. Other electronics (smartphones, cameras, tablets) are subject to value limits: Rs 45,000 for Indian residents, Rs 50,000 for tourists. Exceeding these limits may incur customs duty of 35–40%.

3. Are there restrictions on bringing medicines into India?

Medicines for personal use are allowed with a valid prescription or medical certificate. Reasonable quantity is typically a 3-month supply. Narcotic or psychotropic drugs require prior approval and additional documentation.

4. How much gold or jewellery can I carry to India duty-free?

India now applies weight-based limits for jewellery for residents and tourists of Indian origin:

  • Female passengers: up to 40 g duty-free
  • Other passengers: up to 20 g duty-free

Exceeding these limits must be declared at the Customs Red Channel, and duties will apply. Silver jewellery is allowed up to 100 g. Always carry receipts.

5. What are the regulations for carrying alcohol and tobacco into India?

Passengers aged 21+ can bring up to 2 liters of alcoholic beverages duty-free. Tobacco allowances include 100 cigarettes, 25 cigars, or 125 g of loose tobacco. Excess quantities must be declared, and customs duty applies.

6. Is it possible to bring pets into India?

Pets can be imported with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS). Valid health and vaccination certificates, including rabies vaccination, are required. Microchipping may also be necessary.

7. How can I declare items over the duty-free allowance?

Declare excess items at the Customs Red Channel upon arrival. Complete a Customs Declaration Form with item details and value. Duties range from 10–40%, depending on the item.

8. What items are prohibited from being brought into India?

Prohibited items include narcotics, pornographic materials, counterfeit currency, products violating intellectual property rights, endangered species, certain agricultural products, and wildlife items.

9. What should I do if my baggage is delayed or lost?

Report immediately to the airline’s baggage claim desk, provide baggage tags, and complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Airlines typically offer tracking and compensation per international conventions.

10. How can I carry foreign currency into or out of India?

No limit on foreign currency, but cash over USD 5,000 or travelers’ cheques over USD 10,000 must be declared on a Currency Declaration Form (CDF). Undeclared amounts may be confiscated with penalties.

11. Can I bring food items into India?

Packaged and processed food for personal use is allowed but must be declared. Dairy, meat, seeds, and fresh produce are restricted due to health rules.

12. What is the process for carrying large amounts of currency when leaving India?

Residents can carry up to INR 25,000. Foreign currency should not exceed the declared amount. Undeclared currency may lead to fines or confiscation.

13. Are drones allowed to be brought into India?

Drones require DGCA compliance. Declare at customs and obtain a Unique Identification Number (UIN) or permission for personal use.

14. How can I bring artwork or antiques into India?

Artworks and antiques over 100 years old require proof of age and value. Declare at customs to avoid delays or confiscation.

15. What should I do if I'm bringing items for commercial purposes?

Commercial items need a valid import license and must be declared at the Customs Red Channel. Provide invoices with item descriptions and values for duty calculation.

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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

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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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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...