Editor’s Note
This article outlines the key changes to India’s duty-free allowances under the new Baggage Rules, 2026. The primary update is a significant increase in the allowance for most travellers, rising to ₹75,000 for several categories, while the limit for foreign tourists remains lower. Travellers are advised to consult official sources for the most detailed and current regulations.
Under the new Baggage Rules, 2026, the general duty-free allowance (the total value of goods a passenger can bring into India without paying customs duty) has been increased for most categories of travellers arriving by air or sea.
The revised duty-free limits are:
Indian residents: up to Rs 75,000
Tourists of Indian origin: up to Rs 75,000
Foreign nationals holding valid non-tourist visas: up to Rs 75,000
Tourists of foreign origin: up to Rs 25,000
Airline crew members: up to Rs 2,500
These allowances apply only to goods carried on the passenger’s person or in bona fide baggage. Importantly, the rules make it explicit that no general duty-free allowance is available for passengers entering India through land borders, regardless of nationality.
Used personal effects (clothes, travel souvenirs, etc.) required for everyday use are fully duty-free. New goods (e.g., gifts, purchases abroad) qualify up to the applicable value cap. Goods above the duty-free limit may be dutiable under normal customs provisions unless specifically exempted by law.