If you often travel abroad or are planning an international trip, this update is important for you.
The Indian government has increased the duty-free limit on goods brought from abroad.
The limit has gone up by ₹25,000 and is effective immediately.
This change means travelers can now bring more items without paying customs duty.
What Has the Government Decided?
The Union Finance Ministry has notified the new Baggage Rules, 2026.
According to these rules, Indians returning from abroad can now bring goods worth up to ₹75,000 duty-free.
No customs tax will be charged on items within this value.
The rule applies to Indian residents, people of Indian origin, and tourists arriving in India by air or sea.
What Was the Duty-Free Limit Earlier?
Earlier, the Baggage Rules, 2016 were in force.
Under those rules, the duty-free allowance was limited to ₹50,000.
The new rules came into effect from midnight on February 2, 2026.
With this update, eligible passengers can now bring goods worth ₹75,000 in their accompanied baggage without paying duty.
Duty-Free Limit Increased for Foreign Tourists
The government has also revised the rules for foreign tourists visiting India.
Foreign tourists, excluding infants, can now bring luggage worth up to ₹25,000 duty-free.
Earlier, this exemption limit was only ₹15,000 under the 2016 rules.
Higher Exemption Limits for NRIs
The duty-free limits have also been increased for Indian residents or people of Indian origin who have stayed abroad for a long period.
Those who stayed abroad for up to 12 months can bring goods worth ₹1.5 lakh duty-free.
Those returning after 1 to 2 years abroad can bring goods worth ₹3 lakh duty-free.
Those who stayed abroad for more than 2 years can now bring goods worth up to ₹7.5 lakh duty-free.
How Much Gold Can You Bring from Abroad?
Separate rules apply to gold and precious metal jewelry.
Indian residents who have stayed abroad for more than one year can bring gold jewelry duty-free as part of their personal baggage.
Female travelers can bring up to 40 grams, while other travelers can bring up to 20 grams.
Jewelry includes items made of gold, silver, platinum, or other precious metals, with or without precious stones, that are commonly worn.
These revised rules make international travel more convenient and allow travelers to carry more belongings without worrying about extra customs charges.
