The Government of India has made major changes in the custom rules after the Union Budget 2026. Indians (NRIs) living in UAE and other countries will directly benefit from these new rules. The Finance Ministry has changed the limit for bringing gold and other goods from abroad under ‘Baggage Rules, 2026’. These new rules have come into effect at all airports from 2 February 2026. The most important thing is that now importance will be given to the weight of gold instead of its price.
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What has changed in the rules for bringing gold?
The biggest relief for migrants has been given regarding gold jewellery. Earlier the rule was that gold worth more than a limit was taxable, even if the weight was less. But now the government has completely removed the ‘value cap’. This means that now no matter what the price of gold is, you can bring gold up to the prescribed weight without paying custom duty. This rule will apply to those travelers who have been living abroad for more than a year.
Passengers Old Rule (2016) New Rule (2026) Female Passengers 40 grams (maximum ₹1 lakh)
40 grams (no price limit)
Male passenger 20 grams (maximum ₹50,000)
20 grams (no price limit)
How much has the limit for gifts and electronics increased?
The government has also increased the limit of General Duty-Free Allowance. Indians coming from abroad can now bring with them goods (like electronics, chocolates, gifts) worth up to Rs 75,000 without paying duty. Earlier this limit was Rs 50,000. Additionally, passengers above 18 years of age can also bring a laptop or notepad for their personal use. This laptop will be counted apart from the limit of Rs 75,000. This exemption limit for foreign tourists has been increased from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000.
The method of checking at the airport also changed
Along with the changes in the rules, the process has also been made easier. The government has launched a digital custom declaration system linked to the ‘Air Suvidha’ platform. With this, passengers will take less time in paperwork at the airport. It is estimated that this will save up to 30% time in exiting the airport. Jewelery groups like Malabar Gold and Diamonds have also acknowledged that removing the price cap is a practical step in view of the rising prices of gold.
