New Delhi :The Baggage Rules, 2026 came into effect on February 2, 2026, following the Union Budget. This is the first major update to India’s customs baggage rules in nearly a decade, replacing the 2016 framework.
The new rules focus on higher duty-free limits, simpler jewellery norms, and faster airport clearance for genuine travellers.
Higher Duty-Free Allowance
Passengers arriving in India by air or sea can now bring higher-value personal items and gifts without paying customs duty.
Indian residents, OCI cardholders and Indian-origin travellers: Up to ₹75,000
Foreign tourists: Up to ₹25,000
Foreign nationals on non-tourist visas: Up to ₹75,000
Important:
Travellers entering through land borders are not eligible for this general duty-free allowance.
Jewellery Rules Simplified
Indian residents who have stayed abroad for more than one year now get a clear, weight-based jewellery allowance.
Women passengers: Up to 40 grams duty-free
Other passengers: Up to 20 grams duty-free
This covers gold, silver, platinum, and jewellery with or without stones.
Laptops, Pets and Personal Imports
Several commonly carried items are now clearly covered under the new rules.
One laptop is allowed duty-free for passengers above 18 years
Pets are officially included under baggage rules, subject to health and veterinary certification
Lower customs duty:
Goods exceeding the ₹75,000 limit will now attract 10% customs duty, down from 20%
Digital Customs and Faster Clearance
The government aims to speed up airport checks by promoting digital, trust-based compliance.
Advance baggage declaration can be filed online up to three days before arrival using the Atithi app
Temporary import facility allows professionals to bring cameras, tools, or equipment without paying duty if the items are taken back out of India
What Has Not Changed
Certain restricted items remain outside the duty-free allowance.
Alcohol limit remains 2 litres
Tobacco limits remain unchanged
Flat-panel televisions (LED, LCD, Plasma) are still fully dutiable
Why These Rules Matter
The updated baggage rules are designed to:
Reduce delays at airports
Prevent harassment of genuine travellers
Encourage voluntary compliance through digital systems
For frequent flyers, NRIs, and tourists, the changes could mean faster clearance and lower customs costs.
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