There is news of great relief for travelers coming to India from abroad. The Finance Ministry has implemented ‘Baggage Rules 2026’ by changing the old rules. Under the new rules, Indian origin travelers coming from abroad will now be able to bring with them goods worth up to Rs 75,000 without any custom duty. Earlier this limit was Rs 50,000. This change has come into effect at all airports from February 2 and its aim is to simplify the customs process.
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How much goods can you bring without tax?
According to the notification issued by the government, if you are coming to India by plane or ship, then the limit of duty free luggage has been increased. This facility is for passengers who are Indian residents or tourists of Indian origin. However, this relaxation is not available for those coming via land border.
Indian Residents/Tourists: Goods up to Rs 75,000 (earlier it was Rs 50,000).
Foreign tourists: Goods up to Rs 25,000 (earlier it was Rs 15,000).
Airline Crew Member: Goods up to Rs 2,500.
Coming by land: No exemption (NIL), can bring only personal needs.
Big relief on bringing gold
The rules for bringing gold jewelery have been made very simple. Earlier, exemption was given according to the price of gold, but due to increase in the price of gold, this limit was reduced. Now the government has removed the condition of ‘price’ and kept only the rule of ‘weight’. This rule will be applicable to those travelers who have returned after staying abroad for more than a year.
Now passengers can bring with them jewelery for personal use:
Female Passenger: Gold jewelery up to 40 grams (without duty).
Male Passenger: Gold jewelery up to 20 grams (without duty).
Keep in mind that this discount is only on ready-made jewellery. This rule will not apply to gold biscuits, bars or coins and separate tax will have to be paid on them.
Rules for those shifting home from abroad
A limit has also been set for those who were working or working abroad and are now shifting to India with all their belongings (Transfer of Residence). Also, any passenger above 18 years of age (except crew) can bring one laptop with them duty free. Rules regarding bringing pets have also now been included in it.
Duration of stay abroad Duty free luggage limit Up to 12 months Rs 1.50 lakh 1 to 2 years Rs 3.00 lakh More than 2 years Rs 7.50 lakh
