indian customs traveller guide

Embracing Etiquette: A Traveler’s Guide to Navigating Customs in India

I ndia, a mosaic of cultures, languages, and traditions. A land where ancient rituals coexist with bustling modern cities. But for the uninitiated, this rich tapestry can sometimes lead to unexpected faux pas. Ever found yourself in an awkward situation, unsure of the local customs? You're not alone.

With its diverse customs and etiquettes, India can be both enchanting and bewildering for travelers. But with a sprinkle of understanding and a dash of preparation, you can turn potential blunders into enriching interactions.

TL;DR: Decoding India's Cultural Nuances

  • India ranks 68th in ease of doing business, reflecting the intricacies of its customs.
  • "Namaste" is the traditional greeting, symbolizing respect and warmth.
  • Mark Twain emphasizes the depth of India's traditions and history.
  • Insider tips to help you blend seamlessly into the Indian culture.
  • Transform potential misunderstandings into moments of cultural connection.

The Cultural Labyrinth: Why Missteps Happen

According to a 2019 report by the World Bank, India ranks 68th out of 190 countries in terms of ease of doing business. This statistic underscores the complexity of navigating India's customs, especially in professional settings. But what about everyday interactions?

The Power of 'Namaste'

In India, the traditional greeting of 'Namaste', with hands pressed together at chest level, is more than just a hello. It's a gesture that embodies respect, warmth, and spiritual significance. Especially among women, it's preferred over handshakes. So, when in doubt, a gentle 'Namaste' can be your universal key to Indian hearts.

India Through Mark Twain's Eyes

Mark Twain once remarked, "India is, the cradle of the human race... Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only." This profound observation underscores the depth and richness of Indian customs. To navigate them is to embark on a journey through millennia of history and tradition.

Kevin Erickson's Pro Tips for a Seamless Indian Adventure

Having journeyed through the length and breadth of India, Kevin Erickson shares some golden nuggets of wisdom:

  • Dining Etiquette: Always use your right hand for eating and passing dishes.
  • Visiting Temples: Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
  • Gift Giving: If invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon, especially in rural areas.

Diving Deeper: The Intricacies of Indian Etiquette

India, often described as a subcontinent rather than just a country, boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. Each region, from the snowy peaks of the Himalayas to the tropical backwaters of Kerala, offers its own set of customs and etiquettes. To truly immerse oneself in the Indian experience, it's essential to understand these regional nuances.

Language: More than Just Words

India is home to 22 officially recognized languages and hundreds of dialects. While Hindi and English are widely spoken, greeting locals in their regional language can earn you a special place in their hearts. For instance, saying 'Vanakkam' in Tamil Nadu or 'Namaskara' in Karnataka can light up faces with smiles of appreciation.

Festivals: A Window to Indian Culture

India is a land of festivals, with each state celebrating its own set of traditional events. Participating in these celebrations can provide a firsthand experience of Indian customs. Whether it's the vibrant dance forms during Navratri in Gujarat or the boat races in Kerala during Onam, each festival offers a unique cultural immersion.

Food Etiquette: A Culinary Journey

Indian cuisine is as diverse as its culture. While enjoying the plethora of dishes, remember that each region has its dining customs. In many parts of India, food is traditionally eaten with the hands, believed to enhance the culinary experience. However, always use the right hand, as the left is considered unclean. Also, it's polite to finish everything on your plate, indicating your appreciation of the meal.

Kevin Erickson's Insight on Indian Hospitality

Kevin Erickson notes, "One of the most heartwarming aspects of traveling in India is the unparalleled hospitality. The age-old saying 'Atithi Devo Bhava' which translates to 'The guest is God' is deeply ingrained in the Indian ethos. Even in the most humble of homes, guests are treated with utmost respect and warmth."

India, with its myriad customs and etiquettes, offers a unique adventure at every turn. While the cultural nuances might seem daunting initially, with understanding and respect, you can navigate the Indian landscape with grace and ease. So, pack your bags, arm yourself with these insights, and dive deep into the mesmerizing world of India.

Is it customary to haggle in Indian markets?

Yes, haggling is common in local markets. However, always do so politely and with a smile.

How should I dress while traveling in India?

It's best to dress modestly, especially in religious places. Lightweight cotton clothes are ideal due to the tropical climate.

Is it safe to drink tap water in India?

No, it's advisable to drink bottled water and ensure the seal is intact when purchasing.

What is the significance of the red dot on the forehead?

Called a 'bindi', it's traditionally worn by Hindu women. It can have religious, cultural, or cosmetic significance.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

While credit cards are accepted in cities and tourist areas, it's good to carry cash for local markets and smaller establishments.

World Bank Report on Doing Business

Indian Etiquette and Customs Guide

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Indian Airport Customs rules to make you travel to India an amazing experience.

Are you preparing for your trip to India? If so, you’ll need to be aware of the customs and regulations that apply when traveling to the country.

This blog will explain all you need to know about Indian airport customs , from what to bring with you on your trip to why there are rules and regulations.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or experienced, this blog has everything you need to make your journey go as smoothly as possible.

Table of Contents

Indian customs at airports – what is it.

When traveling to India, it’s always essential to know Indian customs (Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs) which comes under Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Government of India.

This checkpoint checks for illegal items, such as weapons, explosives, and drugs. If it’s illegal, customs officials will confiscate it or the passengers has to pay the penalty or there can be imprisonment or both.

Travelers should also be aware of the items to bring into the country. For example, you must not carry animal or bird eggs, meat, plants, or flowers and many more.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s always a good idea to plan your trip accordingly and be aware of the restrictions that Indian airport customs put in place.

kindly refer to the to guide for travellers which is issued by the Indian Customs for the convenience and easy reference of passengers.

Guide for Travellers – Click Here

What is the process of Indian Airport Customs?

For importing and exporting goods, Indian airports have strict rules and regulations.

  • Inspection: Customs begins with the inspection of the container or object.
  • Safety Check: All items must meet safety requirements and be in good condition before being allowed into the country.
  • Taxes and Duties: After passing the inspection, the item goes through taxes and duties payable by the importer/exporter.

If you’re looking to import or export goods to India, ensure you know the process and follow all the guidelines. Doing so will ensure a smooth and trouble-free journey!

Why do we have Rules and Regulations at an Indian Airport?

When you fly to or from India, there will be different customs and immigration regulations. It is for many reasons, the most important of which is the safety and security of passengers.

International airports in India are subject to different rules and regulations than those found at domestic airports.

These rules and regulations are in place for many reasons like – safety, security, and the welfare of passengers.

It can be confusing, so it’s always best to contact your travel agent or read up online before arriving at the airport.

Customs can be a little daunting, so it’s always best to be prepared. Having all the information at your fingertips will help you navigate the process with ease.

Importance of Custom Declaration

All passengers entering India must go through immigration and then Indian customs check.

Before disembarking, the first step is to complete the customs declaration form provided by the airline or you can file it online well in advance using ATITHI APP which is easy to use mobile application for international travelers to file declaration of dutiable items and currency well in advance.

Make sure to sign and return the declaration to the Indian customs officer at the Indian airport.

You must be aware of 2 channels – Red and Green .

Red Channel

Use the red channel if you carry any prohibited items or items above the permissible limit.

Here is the list of prohibited items:

  • Weapons like firearms.
  • Over 50 cartridges for firearms.
  • Carrying more than 100 cigarettes.
  • Carrying more than 25 cigars.
  • Tobacco with more than 125 grams.
  • More than 2 liters of alcohol or wine.
  • Any form of gold or silver other than jewelry or ornaments.
  • Flat screen TVs with liquid crystal display, light emitting diode, or plasma TVs.
  • Narcotics or psychotropic substances.
  • Anything above the free allowance amount.

Green Channel

Use the green channel if you don’t have anything to declare or not carrying any prohibited items.

Carrying Currency and Valuables into India – What is the limit?

Submit foreign exchange/currency declarations before Indian Customs officials in the following circumstances:

  • The value of foreign currency notes exceeds US $5,000 or equivalent.
  • When the total value of foreign exchange, including currency, reaches $10,000 or the equivalent.
  • Passengers who are Indian residents returning from a trip abroad are permitted to carry in Indian currency up to Rs. 25,000.
  • It is illegal to bring Indian currency notes in Rs.500 and Rs.1,000 denominations.
  • Indian residents who have spent more than a year abroad may bring INR 100,000 in jewelry for ladies and INR 50,000 in jewelry for men.

Duty-Free Allowance

Arriving from somewhere other than Nepal, Bhutan, or Myanmar:

A. Indians or foreign nationals living in India can carry,

  • Used personal items.
  • Articles up to the worth of Rs.50,000 carried in person or accompanied baggage
  • Firearm cartridges above 50.
  • Cigarettes above 100 sticks, cigars over 25, or tobacco above 125 gms.
  • More than two liters of alcoholic liquor or wine.
  • Any kind of gold or silver other than ornaments.
  • Television with a flat panel (liquid crystal display/light-emitting diode/plasma).

B. Foreign Tourists:

  • Personal items
  • Items worth INR 15000 carried in person or baggage.

How is Duty charges calculated?

Two types of duty apply to you.

  • Individual Customs duty – for the items you carry.

If you carry above the prescribed limit, then you will have to pay a customs duty charge (35%) and social welfare charge (3.5%) .

  • Trade Customs duty – for items you bring to trade.

Let’s discuss the trade customs and other business-related duties in the next blog.

Tips for Traveling with Food Items

When it comes to traveling with food, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

  • Pack your food items in airtight containers to avoid any potential problems.
  • Ensure to label everything clearly, so you don’t have to worry about anything getting lost in the process.
  • If you’re traveling with dairy products or eggs, ensure they are properly refrigerated and wrapped in foil or plastic to prevent them from going bad.
  • Lastly, be patient – things can get pretty hectic at the airport, so don’t worry if everything takes a little longer than expected. Have a great trip!

Things Not to Bring into the Country

When traveling to India, it’s essential to be familiar with the Indian customs of the country’s airports. Some items that are not allowed into the country include,

  • Pronography

Other prohibited items include,

  • Food items (Expired, Unsealed and others)
  • Aerosols (sprays)
  • Glass containers

Ensure you understand the specific rules for your destination before you travel. So you don’t get caught up in any trouble.

When to contact the authorities if there’s a problem?

When traveling to India, it is essential to be aware of customs laws and regulations.

If there’s a problem with your baggage, contact the authorities at the airport.

You should also report any injuries or damages you may have sustained during travel.

Be especially careful if you’re traveling with valuable items or if you’re carrying any contraband.

Remember that it is against the law to falsely accuse someone of smuggling drugs or contraband into India.

Contact details: ***Useful Website Links***

When traveling to India, it’s always important to be aware of the Indian customs regulations that are in place. Here are a few website links that will help you out:

  • Official website of Customs https://www.cbic.gov.in/htdocs-cbec/customs
  • Delhi Customs https://delhicustoms.gov.in/
  • Mumbai Customs http://accmumbai.gov.in/aircargo/index.html
  • Bangalore Customs https://bangalorecustoms.gov.in/
  • Hyderabad https://cgsthyderabadzone.gov.in/customs/about-us

Also, remember to,

  • Know the dos and don’ts of bringing gifts to India, as this can impact your travel experience.
  • Read through our checklist below to ensure you prepare for your trip to India!
  • When it comes to customs, be patient – most things go smoothly when you plan ahead!

Traveling to India can be an exciting and daunting experience, but it is made much easier by knowing the Indian customs and regulations at Indian airports.

In this blog, we have outlined the process of Indian Customs, listed the items that are not allowed into the country, and provided links to websites.

So, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, ensure you know what to expect and have the information you need to navigate the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i know if something is prohibited inbound to an indian airport.

Traveling with any of the prohibited items listed above can lead to various problems at the Indian airport. Always check if these items are allowed in advance. You can do this by consulting your airline’s website or contacting customer service.

Here is the exhaustive list of prohibited items.

What should I do if my luggage gets lost during transit through Indian airport customs?

If you lose your luggage during transit through Indian airport customs, you should contact the authorities at the airport as soon as possible. You will need to provide your passport number and flight details to initiate a search for your luggage. Kindly read our article on  lost baggage.

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Travel Tips

Your Expert-approved Pocketbook Etiquette Guide For Indians Travelling Abroad

If you're an indian travelling abroad, bookmark this expert-approved etiquette guide for navigating customs and cultures on your journey..

By: Shalbha Sarda Published: Apr 27, 2023 10:00 AM IST

Your Expert-approved Pocketbook Etiquette Guide For Indians Travelling Abroad

If you’re an Indian travelling abroad, bookmark this expert-approved etiquette guide for navigating customs and cultures on your journey — from airport to the destination. 

People who love to travel also want to ensure they travel right. While we all check local time zones, weather, and travel distances, our travel experience will significantly depend on how much we sensitise ourselves to the destination’s environment.

Parul Masand Sharma , a Hospitality, Behavioral & Etiquette Coach and Training consultant at ‘ALL’ of Finesse gives tips to make these journeys easier. She is also an avid globe-trotter in luxury travel and teaches high-end hacks and off-the-wall tips to travellers worldwide.  

Expert’s Etiquette Guide to Travelling Abroad

At the airport:.

Traveller at airport

  • Dress well for your flight. Your attire can impact your experience and set the tone for your vacation . Looking sharp could earn you perks and perhaps a better seat!
  • If you are compelled to carry home-cooked food, be discreet about it. Draw the line at messier, heartier times that could have leaks or are heavy on the aroma. Bring along things that could be packed neatly into wraps rather than spreads.

On the flight:

Inside a flight

  • Wear a subtle perfume to avoid discomforting fellow passengers. Strong fragrances can even trigger migraines and incapacitate those with scent sensitivities!
  • Connect with the crew by greeting them as you board the aircraft. The flight attendants at the door quickly observe your attitude upon entering the plane.
  • If your aisle seat neighbour wants to exit, stand up rather than squeezing yourself to the back and let them pass as many times as needed without irritation. It is their right!
  • Flight attendants are expected to be nice, but being polite to them can earn you extra kindness. Use “please” and “thank you” and remove your headphones when they speak to you. Be specific about your preferences when ordering, such as milk or sweetener for coffee or tea, and ice or lemon for cold drinks.
  • Alcohol is free during the flight, and having a drink or two can help alleviate the discomfort of being in a narrow chair for long hours. However, flight crews prioritise safety and will cut off passengers who cause trouble. A polite passenger who makes eye contact with the crew is more likely to be served than a rude and intoxicated passenger. A drink will hit you harder at 35,000 feet altitude than the ground. Being one short of your sweet spot definitely will keep you at bay with trouble.

At the hotel and restaurant:

Traveller in a hotel

  • Ensure you have deciphered all the hotel norms of your destination. For example, flushing the toilet after 9:30 pm is prohibited in certain countries.
  • In remote places, quiet hours may be observed to keep the site’s tranquillity. Don’t turn on loud music in your hotel room in a calm city. Norway shouldn’t be treated as Ibiza!
  • If you rent an Airbnb, you will often have a list of chores to complete before leaving the properties that one doesn’t do in hotels.
  • Be aware of the tipping policy of the hotel and at local food and beverage outlets.
  • Take a few moments to fathom the buffet layout and practice. Certain hotels provide only beverage service at the table, and the rest is laid out at the buffet. At such places, you are expected to self-serve.
  • The overseas buffet includes a separate section for gluten-free, nut-free, and lactose-free food items. If you are not mindful, you end up picking up these items and, in turn, wasting them as you may not have a palate for those.

At the location:

Guide to Travelling Abroad

  • When travelling, it’s essential to remember your destination’s laws and customs. For example, E-cigarettes are banned in Thailand, tobacco in Bhutan , and chewing gum in Singapore. Headlights always stay on in Scandinavian countries, and many countries have no honking rules.
  • While exiting doors, check if someone is behind you, and extend the courtesy of holding the door.
  • Walk on the correct side of the road. Many countries yield to pedestrians, make sure to do that while driving. Cross quickly if yielded.

And lastly, Sharma says that “being mindful and sensitive is the guide and mantra for people travelling abroad.”

Featured image: Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash Hero Image: Photo by Erik Odiin on Unsplash

Related:  Planning To Study Abroad? These Immigrant-Friendly Countries May Be Ideal For You

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Shalbha Sarda

Shalbha Sarda

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  • Home ›   Consular Services ›   Indian Customs - Guide for Travellers

The Central Board of Excise & Customs has released a multi-lingual mobile Apps  "Indian Customs  - Guide to Travellers " to facilitate international passengers about Baggage Rules.  The contents of the app are available in English, Hindi and three other regional languages. 

2.  The app, a first-of-its-kind  mobile  application, contains a ready reckoner of the customs baggage rules and entitlement of passengers coming from various countries.  It contains 24X7 contact details of customs officers of major Airports.  After installation of app on smart phones, it works in offline mode. The said app is available on all the three platforms-Android Play Store, Windows & Apple Store and serves as a Ready Reckoner of Customs Baggage Rules and Passenger Entitlements.           

The updated version of the mobile app is available at: 

http://www.cbec.gov.in/htdocs- cbec/guide_for_travellers/ trvler-guide

These details are also available on official website: 

www.cbec.gov.in  

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2023 Guide To Indian Customs’ Rules For Electronic Items

  • Posted on September, 30, 2023

2023 Guide To Indian Customs’ Rules For Electronic Items

Electronic devices are a necessity in day – to – day lives of everyone, so it is only natural that we carry it everywhere with us. But when it comes to flights, there are different airline regulations for every country, including India. So if you are planning to visit India anytime soon, we suggest brushing up on facts about rules and regulations for carrying electronic items on board. So go get cheap flight tickets from USA to Jaipur on Tripbeam and check out all you should know!

All About Indian Customs’ Rules For Electronic Items

All About Indian Customs’ Rules For Electronic Items

If you are traveling from countries apart from Myanmar, Nepal or Bhutan, foreigners residing in India and Indian residents can bring used personal belongings, articles and travel souvenirs up to Rs. 50,000. If you are a tourist of foreign origin, you can bring used personal belongings, articles and travel souvenirs up to Rs. 15,000.

This duty free allowance usually includes items of personal use, such as mobiles, airpods, power banks, wireless headphones, etc. Additionally, you can also bring a laptop for personal use. Also visit Tripbeam.ca for cheap direct flights from Canada to India.

Indian Customs’ Rules For Laptops

Indian Customs Baggage Rules states that you can import 1 laptop computer (notebook computer) apart from the free allowances mentioned above, only if you are a passenger over 18 years of age or older.

Can you bring 2 laptops to India?

You can only bring 1 laptop to India for personal use under duty free allowance. However, if you want to bring a 2 nd laptop for personal use and the total value of your items (including the 2 nd laptop) exceed the standard duty free allowance, you will pay Customs Duty. So get your cheap flights to Mumbai from USA on Tripbeam and start your travel today!

The only exception to this rule is when you carry a laptop for official purposes in addition to carrying 1 for personal use. However, you need to get a letter from your organisation stating that the laptop is for official use.

Do you need to declare a laptop at Customs Duty?

If you are carrying 1 laptop, there is no need to declare it at Customs Duty. But if you are carrying 2, you need to declare it and pay Customs Duty as well.

Should you pay Customs Duty on used laptops as well?

If you carry more than 1 laptop for personal use, you are responsible to pay Customs Duty on used laptops as well. You can claim depreciation on the value, depending on the laptop’s age.

Indian Customs’ Rules For Mobile Phones

There is no special allowance for mobile phones, unlike laptops. Customs officials do not need you to declare it either because usually normal mobile phones come under Rs. 50,000 and hence, are allowed under duty free allowance. However, you can carry 2 mobile phones with you as well.

Note: The rules of Indian Customs Baggage state that items that are not restricted and prohibited, can only be brought for bona fide personal use. You cannot bring it in a commercial quantity.

If that solves your issues, get your cheap flight tickets to Kolkata on Tripbeam and use it practically. Pack your bags – book your journey!

Also Read: Traveling From The USA To India With Gadgets

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A free program for Android, by Central Board of Excise and Customs CBEC.

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It will also help you to find out what rules and limitations are applicable to you. You will be able to find out all this information in a very simple and easy to use manner.

It will help you to calculate the duty for goods which are not covered in Free Allowance.

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Passenger Departure Guide

Disclaimer: Passengers are advised to refer to the respective state guidelines for more information

  • All employees are screened before they start their duties and are specifically trained on best practices against COVID-19
  • We conduct regular sanitization and fumigation of all areas and surfaces, with special emphasis on frequently used touch points
  • Mats and carpets are soaked with bleach at the entry gates for disinfecting footwear
  • Sanitisers are placed for use throughout the airport right from the entry to boarding gate
  • Maintain social distancing through distinctive floor markers
  • F&B counters are audited daily to ensure food safety and hygiene standards. We encourage contactless interactions right from viewing the menu to payment exchange

What should passengers do? Follow all preventive measures laid down for your safety:

  • Web check-in before reaching the airport for departure
  • Generate baggage tag or paste the PNR and sector details on the luggage
  • Limit the luggage to 1 check-in and 1 cabin baggage
  • Report at the airport two hours before departure
  • Wear face mask and follow physical distancing throughout the airport
  • Temperature screening of passengers at the entry gate
  • Verification of the boarding pass and ID proof by CISF at the entry gate
  • Display the status of Aarogya Setu App* at the entry gate
  • In absence of Aarogya Setu App, fill-in the self-declaration form at the entry gate
  • Passenger to drop the luggage at the self-baggage drop or check-in counters (An electronic receipt shall be sent to the passenger)
  • Contactless entry into security check through e-gate
  • Passenger to dispose of all the bio-hazardous material like used masks, gloves, tissues etc. in the yellow-coloured disposable bins placed at strategic locations
  • Avoid sitting on chairs demarcated to maintain social distance
  • Self-scanning of the boarding pass at the boarding gate and display of ID proof

Check-in Process

At CSMIA, we work towards making your airline check-in process a seamless and pleasant experience.

The check-in is located at the departure area - level 4. Passengers can locate the check-in counters of the respective airlines by referring to the information screens on Level 4 that are located near the Terminal entry gates.

The check-in commencement time is usually 4 hours prior to departure and the counters close at least one hour prior to departure. However, the check - in counter allocation is a dynamic process; hence we recommend that you check the allocation of respective airline at departure kerbside signage.

To know more about the airlines operating out of CSMIA, Click here .

Baggage Rules

There are certain guidelines on items that can be brought into the aircraft. Carry-on and check-in baggage are subject to being hand-searched by the security personnel, especially when the x-ray scan cannot determine its contents.

We request you to co-operate with the security agencies.

Electronic items such as laptop computers and cell phones may be subjected to additional screening. Place your electronics (e.g., laptops, mobile phones, tablets) and metallic items (e.g., keys, coins) in a separate tray.

Hand Baggage:

As per the recent directives published by BCAS, passengers are permitted to carry only 01 hand bag. Passengers can carry the following along with the one hand bag:Laptop bag Lady’s Hand bag An overcoat/ rug/ blanket/ wrap Camera / pair of Binoculars Reading material for the flight Infants feed for consumption during the flight and infants carrying basket

Hand baggage allowance may vary from airlines to airlines. We recommend that the passengers consult the concerned airline for more details on allowed hand baggage. Power banks are allowed only in hand baggage.

Carriage of Satellite Phones and Drones in Hand Baggage and Registered Baggage is strictly prohibited.

Check-In Baggage Allowance:

The check-in baggage allowance may vary from airlines to airlines. We recommend that the passengers consult the concerned airline for more details.

Guidelines for Liquids/Aerosols/Gels:

To protect you from any potential security threats, there are rules for taking liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) on flights:

  • Liquid/aerosol/gels and items of similar consistency should not exceed 100 millilitres quantity in each container.
  • Liquids, aerosols or gels which are in containers larger than 100ml are not permitted.
  • At the time of screening remove any liquids, aerosols and gels from your bag(s) and place them separately in the tray.
  • LAGs must be carried in one clear transparent, re-sealable plastic bag.

For more information on security, please visit here .

Immigration

After clearing security Check, passengers are requested to move towards immigration.

We conduct immigration checks for all passengers, Indians or foreigners, both at the time of arrival and departure. The passports are duly stamped at the time of arrival as well as departure. Passengers should be careful to see that their passports are duly stamped before leaving the immigration counter.

Passengers are required to present valid travel documents i.e. passport and visa (if applicable) before proceeding for immigration clearance.

If inadvertently, an immigration stamp is not affixed by the counter officer at the immigration check-post, the passenger may immediately contact the concerned AFRRO/FRO/SSP and get the same affixed on his/her passport to avoid inconvenience at the time of next travel abroad.

For more information on immigration rules and regulations, please visit www.boi.gov.in

Disclaimer: Currently operational

Customs Helpdesk / Declaration Counter:

After immigration, passengers go through the Customs Declaration Counter as the final step before moving towards their boarding gates. No stamping or baggage check is normally done by customs, however in case of suspicion or as a random routine check, sometimes your baggage may be examined by customs.

Important points to consider on departure from India

  • If you are exporting any high valued item such as jewellery which you would want to import back into India, you should consider getting the export certificate from the customs authority, so you are not charged custom duty on these items later when you return.
  • For export certificate, physical verification of the goods is mandatory.
  • For obtaining export certificate in case of jewellery, passengers are required to approach precious cargo customs clearance centre( PCCC) at Bandra-Kurla complex , Bandra east, Mumbai well in advance before the day of departure. You may contact Deputy/ Assistant Commissioner (PCCC) at ph no. 02226754000.
  • Indian residents can take along with them Indian currency notes not exceeding value of Rs. 25,000/-
  • Carrying of currency notes of denominations of Rs.500/- and Rs.2000/- is prohibited to Nepal and Bhutan only Rs.100/- or smaller denominations is allowed.
  • Indian residents going abroad can carry foreign exchange including foreign currency without any limits so long as the same has been issued by RBI/ authorized foreign exchange dealer. Foreign currency notes exceeding US $ 5000 or equivalent and foreign exchange including currency exceeding US $ 10,000 or equivalent needs to be declared at Customs Counter.
  • Tourists/ NRIs while leaving India are allowed to take with them foreign currency not exceeding an amount brought in by them.
  • For any further information, passengers are advised to download Indian Customs Traveller Guide from the playstore on your device. This application by The Central Board of Excise & Customs can be downloaded for all information related to Customs procedures and protocols.

Entry Gates

Disclaimer: The gate no's and check in island mentioned for domestic flights are subject to changes

Terminal Map

CSMIA

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Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)

Customs guide for travellers.

(updated as on 27th August, 2020)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

(For details please visit: https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources/htdocs-cbec/baggage-rules.pdf )

Every passenger entering India has to pass through a Customs check after being first cleared by an Immigration Officer and taking delivery of his/her baggage, if any, from the conveyer belts. The passenger has the option of seeking Customs clearance through either of the two channels:

(i) Green Channel for passengers not having any dutiable or prohibited goods.

(ii) Red Channel for passengers having dutiable or prohibited goods.

Important Requirements:

(i) Customs Declaration Form is mandatory for passengers having prohibited or dutiable goods in their possession or goods in excess of their eligible Duty Free allowance. Such passengers shall ensure to file a correct declaration of their baggage in the Customs Declaration Form and opt for the Red Channel. The passengers can also file declaration of dutiable items as well as currency with Indian Customs even before boarding the flight to India by using ATITHI mobile app.

(ii) Declaration of foreign exchange/currency has to be made before the Custom officers in the following cases:

a. Where the value of foreign currency notes exceed US $5,000 or equivalent.

b. Where the aggregate value of foreign exchange including currency exceeds US $10,000 or equivalent.

(iii) Passengers opting for the Green Channel with dutiable/prohibited goods are liable to prosecution/penalty and confiscation of goods.

(iv) Trafficking of Narcotics and Psychotropic substances is a serious offence punishable with imprisonment.

Arriving Passengers

1. What are the Duty Free Allowances and entitlements on arrival?

Ans. The Duty Free Allowances and entitlements are as follows:

I. On arrival from countries other than Nepal, Bhutan or Myanmar:

A. Indian Residents and foreigners residing in India:

(a) used personal effects and travel souvenirs;

(b) articles up to the value of Rs.50,000 carried on person or accompanied baggage, excluding the following:

1. Fire arms.

2. Cartridges of fire arms exceeding 50.

3. Cigarettes exceeding 100 sticks or cigars exceeding 25 or tobacco exceeding 125 gms.

4. Alcoholic liquor or wines in excess of two litres.

5. Gold or silver in any form other than ornaments.

6. Flat Panel (Liquid Crystal Display/Light-Emitting Diode/ Plasma) television.

B. Tourist of Foreign Origin:

(b) articles up to the value of Rs.15,000 carried on person or as accompanied baggage.

II. On arrival from Nepal, Bhutan or Myanmar:

Indian Residents and foreigners residing in India or a tourist:

(a) used personal effects and travel souvenirs; and

(b) articles up to the value of Rs. 15,000 carried on person or as accompanied baggage.

1. Resident means a person holding a valid passport issued under the Passports Act, 1967 and normally residing in India.

2. Only used personal effects are allowed duty free in the case of infants.

3. The free allowance shall not be pooled with the free allowance of any other passenger.

4. The free allowance is not applicable to the following goods:

i. Fire arms.

ii. Cartridges of firearms exceeding 50.

iii. Cigarettes exceeding 100 sticks or cigars exceeding 25 or tobacco exceeding 125gms.

iv. Alcoholic liquor or wines or beer in excess of 2 litres.

v. Gold or silver, in any form, other than ornaments.

vi. LCD/LED/Plasma television of any screen size

5. One laptop computer (notebook computer) over and above the said free allowances mentioned above is also allowed duty free if imported by any passenger of the age of 18 years and above.

6. The goods over and above the free allowances shall be chargeable to customs duty @ 35% + Social Welfare Surcharge of 3.5%, i.e. the effective rate works out to be 38.5%.

7. Alcoholic drinks and tobacco products imported in excess of free allowance are chargeable to Customs duty at the rates applicable to their commercial imports as per the Customs Tariff Act, 1975.

8. Passengers normally resident of India who are returning from a visit abroad are allowed to bring in Indian currency up to Rs. 25,000.

9. In case, the value of one item exceeds the free allowance, the duty shall be calculated only on the excess of free allowance.

10. Any goods, not restricted or prohibited, under the rules, may be brought only for bonafide personal use and not in commercial quantity.

2. Can I file Customs Declaration in advance?

Ans. Yes. ATITHI app is an easy to use mobile application for international travellers to file Customs declaration in advance. Passengers can use this app to file declaration of dutiable items as well as currency with Indian Customs even before boarding the flight to India.

3. Does every passenger coming to India need to fill a Customs Declaration Form?

Ans. No. Only passengers who are carrying dutiable or prohibited goods are required to fill a Customs Declaration Form or use ATITHI mobile app to file declaration of dutiable items as well as currency with Indian Customs even before boarding the flight to India.

4. What are the Channels of Clearance?

Ans. For the purpose of Customs clearance of arriving passengers, a two channel system has been adopted:

i. Green Channel for passengers not having any dutiable goods

ii. Red Channel for passengers having dutiable goods. Passengers are advised to report at the appropriate channel for Customs Clearance. Passengers walking through the Green Channel with dutiable/prohibited goods are liable to prosecution/ penalty and confiscation of goods.

5. Who is a tourist for the purpose of duty free allowances and entitlements?

Ans. A tourist is a passengera) who is not normally a resident in India;

b) who enters India for a stay of not more than six months in the course of any twelve months period for legitimate non-immigrant purposes, such as : touring, recreation, sports, health, family reasons, study, religious pilgrimage, or business;

6. Who can bring Jewellery as baggage, free of duty?

Ans. An Indian passenger who has been residing abroad for over one year is allowed to bring jewellery, free of duty in his bonafide baggage upto 20 grams with a value cap of Rs.50,000/- (in case of a gentleman passenger) or up to 40 grams with a value cap of Rs.1,00,000/- (in the case of a lady passenger).

7. What are the norms for the import of Alcoholic drinks/Cigarettes as baggage?

Ans. Following quantities of Alcoholic drinks and Tobacco products may be included for import within the duty free allowances admissible to various categories of incoming passengers: - Alcoholic liquor or Wine or beer up to 2 litres. - 100 Cigarettes or 25 Cigars or 125 gms of Tobacco.

The imported goods shall have proper pictorial warning on them as prescribed by Cigarettes and Tobacco Products Packaging and Labelling Rules, issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The rate of duty applicable on these products over and above the above mentioned duty free allowance is as under:

(i) Cigarettes BCD @ 30% + social welfare surcharge @ 3%+ CVD+NCCD+IGST (as applicable)

(ii) All alcoholic beverages other than beer and inclusive of wine BCD @ 150%

(iii) Beer BCD @ 100% + Social Welfare Surcharge 10%

8. Who can import gold as baggage? Ans. Any passenger of Indian Origin or a passenger holding a valid passport, issued under the Passport Act, 1967, coming to India after a period of not less than six months of stay abroad. However, short visits during these six months shall be ignored if the total duration of such short visits does not exceed 30 days and the passenger has not availed of the exemption under this scheme, at the time of such short visits. Except for these passenger, no other passengers are allowed to import gold in Baggage.

Conditions:

(i) The duty shall be paid in convertible foreign currency

(ii) Concessional rate of duty @ 12.5% + Social Welfare Surcharge @ 1.25% is applicable for gold to Indian Passport holders and persons of Indian origin if stays is for more than 6 months. Short visits up to a total of 30 days during the six months shall be ignored.

(iii) In cases other than those mentioned in (ii) above, normal rate of Customs Duty @ 38.5% will be charged. (iv) The weight of gold (including ornaments) should not exceed 1 Kg. per person.

(v) The passenger can either bring the gold himself at the time of arrival or import the same within fifteen days of his arrival in India.

(vi) The passenger can also obtain the permitted quantity of gold from Customs bonded warehouse of State Bank of India and Metals and Mineral Trading Corporation subject to conditions (i) and (ii) above. He is required to file a declaration in the prescribed Form before the Customs Officer at the time of arrival in India stating his intention to obtain the gold from the Customs bonded warehouse and pay the duty before clearance.

(vii) The rate of duty levied would be as follows:

9. Who can import silver as baggage?

Ans. The following passengers are eligible to import silver:

(a) Any passenger of Indian origin (even if a foreign national).

(b) Any passenger holding a valid passport issued under the Passport Act, 1967.

(i) The weight of silver (including ornaments) should not exceed 10 Kgs. per passenger.

(ii) Such passengers are coming to India after a period of not less than six months of stay abroad. However, short visits during these six months shall be ignored if the total duration of such short visits does not exceed 30 days and the passenger has not availed of the exemption under this scheme, at the time of such short visits.

(iii) The duty at the rate of 12.5% Ad valorem + 1.25% Social Welfare Surcharge is paid by the passenger in convertible foreign currency. Tariff value of silver is taken as per the notifications issued from time to time.

(iv) The passenger can either bring the silver himself at the time of arrival or import the same within fifteen days of his arrival in India.

(v) The passenger can also obtain the permitted quantity of gold from Customs bonded warehouse of State Bank of India and Metals and Mineral Trading Corporation subject to conditions (i) and (ii) above. He is required to file a declaration in the prescribed Form before the Customs Officer at the time of arrival in India stating his intention to obtain the gold from the Customs bonded warehouse and pay the duty before clearance.

(vi) Import of Gold and Silver by a foreign national is prohibited.

10. What are the norms for import of Foreign Exchange/ Currency?

Ans. Any person can bring into India from a place outside India foreign exchange without any limit. However, declaration of foreign exchange/ currency is required to be made in the prescribed Currency Declaration Form in the following cases:-

(a) Where the value of foreign currency notes exceeds US $5,000/- or equivalent

(b) Where the aggregate value of foreign exchange (in the form of currency notes, bank notes, traveller cheques etc.) exceeds US $10,000/- or its equivalent

11. What are the norms for the import of Indian Currency?

Ans. Import of Indian Currency is prohibited. However, passengers normally resident in India who are returning from a visit abroad can bring Indian Currency up to Rs.25,000.

12. While coming into India how much foreign exchange can be brought in by NRIs?

Ans. An NRI coming into India from abroad can bring foreign exchange without any limit provided if foreign currency notes, travellers cheques, etc. exceed US $10,000/- or its equivalent and/ or the value of foreign currency exceeds US $5,000/- in currency notes or its equivalent, it should be declared to the Customs Authorities at the Airport in the Currency Declaration Form, on arrival in India.

13. What are the norms for the import of firearms? Ans. Import of firearms is prohibited. Likewise, the import of Cartridges in excess of 50 is also prohibited. However, persons transferring their residence (subject to fulfilment of requisite conditions of Transfer of Residence) to India for a minimum period of one year are allowed to import one firearm of permissible bore subject to the conditions that:

(i) The firearm was in possession and used abroad by the passenger for a minimum period of one year.

(ii) The firearm, after clearance shall not be sold, loaned, transferred or parted with in any manner during the life time of the passenger.

(iii) The firearm will be allowed clearance under Transfer of Residence facility, on payment of applicable duty provided the passenger holds a valid arms license from the local authorities.

14. What are the norms for the import of pet animals?

Ans. Import of pets (dogs or cats) up to two numbers per passenger is allowed as baggage, only to persons transferring their residence to India after two year of continuous stay abroad subject to production of required health certificate from country of origin and examination of the said pets by the animal quarantine officer without an import license issued by DGFT. Import of pets is allowed only at airports having animal quarantine facility, viz. at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. Passengers can also re-import the pets which were being taken away with them as export with prior certification from the Animal Quarantine officer. For details please refer http://dgftcom.nic.in/exim/2000/petguidelines.pdf and http://aqcsindia.gov.in/pdf/trade-24.pdf

15. Can a passenger import seeds/plants/fruits/flowers?

Ans. Only certain plants and plant materials in Schedules V, VI and VII of the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003 are allowed to be imported into India subject to conditions. Passengers should ensure that regulated plant species should be accompanied with a Phytosanitary certificate issued by an authorized officer at the country of origin. For details, please refer to http://plantquarantineindia.nic.in/PQISMain/Default.aspx

16. What are the norms for the import of baggage of deceased person?

Ans. Used, bonafide personal and household effects belonging to a deceased person are allowed to be imported free of duty subject to the condition that a certificate from the concerned Indian Mission (Embassy/High Commission/Consulate) is produced at the time of clearance regarding the ownership of the goods by the deceased person.

17. What are rules & regulations for the import of unaccompanied baggage?

Ans. The passengers can send their baggage through cargo which is treated as unaccompanied baggage. However, no free allowance is admissible in case of unaccompanied baggage which is chargeable to Customs duty @ 35% ad valorem + 3.5% social welfare surcharge (total 38.5% duty) and only used personal effects can be imported free of duty. The applicable conditions are:

(i) Provisions of Baggage Rules are also extended to unaccompanied baggage except where they have been specifically excluded.

(ii) The unaccompanied baggage should be in the possession abroad of the passenger and shall be dispatched within one month of his arrival in India or within such further period as the Deputy/Assistant Commissioner of Customs may allow.

(iii) The unaccompanied baggage may land in India up to two months before the arrival of the passenger or within such period, not exceeding one year as the Deputy/Assistant Commissioner of Customs may allow, for reasons to be recorded, if he is satisfied that the passenger was prevented from arriving in India within the period of two months due to circumstances beyond his control, such as sudden illness of the passenger or a member of his family, or natural calamities or disturbed conditions or disruption of the transport or travel arrangements in the country or countries concerned on any other reasons, which necessitated a change in the travel schedule of the passenger.

18. What are the entitlements of a passenger who is transferring residence to India?

Ans. Depending on minimum the time period stayed abroad by the passenger and fulfilment of conditions, various articles are allowed free of duty up to a specified limit.

(a) 3-6 months: aggregate value of Rs.60,000

(b) 6 months- l year: aggregate value of Rs.1,00,000

(c) Minimum 1 year during preceding two years: aggregate value of Rs.1,00,000

(d) Minimum stay of two years or more: upto a value of Rs. 5 lakhs.

These allowances are subject to fulfilment of conditions and are only available on specific items. For further details, Rule 6 of the Baggage Rules, 2016 may please be referred. (https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources/htdocs-cbec/baggage-rules.pdf)

19. What is detained baggage?

Ans. A passenger may request the Customs to detain his baggage either for re-export at the time of his departure from India or for clearance subsequently on payment of duty. The detained baggage would be examined and full details will be inventoried. Such baggage is kept in the custody of the Customs and a Detention Receipt will be issued.

20. What am I supposed to do in case of mishandled baggage?

Ans. In case the baggage is lost or mishandled by the airlines, a procedure is in place for clearance of such baggage by Customs, which allows the passenger to have delivery of his baggage at his door step by the airlines.

There is no need to handover the passport or the keys of the baggage to the airlines. The passenger has to first file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) with the airlines for the missing baggage. At the same time, he/she has to file a declaration indicating contents in the missing baggage. The passenger is required to obtain a certificate to that effect from the airlines and get it countersigned by Customs indicating specifically the unutilized portion of the free allowance. This would enable the passenger to avail the unutilized portion of the duty free allowance when his baggage is delivered by the airlines. Finally, the passenger is required to submit all these documents with the concerned airlines for clearance and delivery of goods on his behalf. The examination of the mis-handled baggage, if required, would be carried out in the presence of the passenger.

21. What are the norms for Airlines/Vessel Crew members?

Ans. Crew members are required to submit the correct declaration before Custom authorities with respect to the currency, gold ornaments and electronic goods etc. in their possession on arrival as well as departure. Crew members are allowed to bring items like chocolates, cheese, cosmetics and other petty gift items for their personal or family use up to a value of Rs. 1,500 only at the returning of the aircraft from foreign journey. However, a crew member on final pay off or at the termination of his engagement with the airline/vessel shall be eligible for allowances as a common passenger.

22. Can a passenger import satellite phone?

Ans. Satellite phone is not permitted to be imported except against a license to be issued by the WPC wing of Department of Telecommunications. Please refer https://dot.gov.in/spectrum-management/2457 for further details.

23. Are LED/LCD/PLASMA Televisions exempt from Customs duty? What is the customs duty on Television (LCD/LED/PLASMA)?

Ans. No, LCD /LED/ Plasma Televisions are not entitled for baggage allowance and will suffer baggage rate of duty on full value as determined.

24. Can drones be imported as Baggage? What are the norms, if so?

Ans. There is no prohibition on import of drones as baggage. However, passengers possessing drones have to opt for Red Channel and should declare the same in the separate column in the Customs Declaration Form or file the same in advance by using ATITHI mobile app. The drones are allowed subject to the conditions that the importer should have licence issued by the WPC wing of Department of Telecommunications for importing the same mentioning proper name, model and specifications of the goods.

25. What are the norms for ATA Carnet/Triptique?

Ans. ATA Carnet is an international uniform Customs document issued in 75 countries including India, which are parties to the Customs Convention on ATA Carnet. The ATA Carnet permits duty free temporary admission of goods into a member country without the need to raise customs bond, payment of duty and fulfilment of other customs formalities in one or a number of foreign countries. In India, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), is appointed as the National Guaranteeing & Issuing Association for ATA Carnets.

26. What are the norms for re-import of personal jewellery carried with the passenger?

Ans. All the passengers leaving India are subject to clearance by Custom Authorities. Only bonafide baggage is allowed to be cleared by passengers. There is a procedure prescribed whereby the passengers leaving India can take the Export Certificate for various high value items such as jewellery, from the Customs authorities. Such an Export Certificate facilitates re-importation of such goods while bringing back the things to India as no duty is charged. The advantage of having the Export Certificate is that the concessions you are entitled to, when you return are not affected.

27. Can I import my used car while transferring my residence to India from abroad?

Ans. The automobiles including cars are excluded under bonafide baggage. Hence, import of car is allowed on payment of Customs duties and certain import conditions. However, if an individual is coming to India for permanent settlement after continuous stay of two years abroad, some relaxations in the import conditions are provided if the car is in possession of the individual for a period of minimum one year abroad,. For more details, please refer to http://dgftcom.nic.in/licasp/itchs2012/87foot.pdf

Outgoing Passengers

1. What should you do when you leave India for abroad?

Ans. All the passengers leaving India are subject to clearance by Custom Authorities. Only bonafide baggage is allowed to be cleared by passengers. There is a procedure prescribed whereby the passengers leaving India can take the Export Certificate for various high value items such as camera, video camera, as well as jewellery, from the Customs authorities. Such an Export Certificate facilitates re-importation of such goods while bringing back the things to India as no duty is charged. The advantage of having the Export Certificate is that the concessions you are entitled to, when you return are not affected.

2. What is the amount of Currency allowed to be taken when going abroad/ leaving India?

Ans. The limits on taking out currency are as follows:

(i) Export of Indian Currency is strictly prohibited. However Indian residents when they go abroad are allowed to take with them Indian currency notes not exceeding Rs.25,000/-.

(ii) Tourists/NRIs while leaving India are allowed to take with them foreign currency not exceeding an amount brought in by them i.e. unspent foreign exchange left from the amount declared in Currency Declaration Form at the time of their arrival in India. Also, as no declaration is required to be made for bringing in foreign exchange / currency not exceeding equivalent of U.S. $5,000 in currency notes, or its equivalent or foreign exchange in form of currency notes, bank notes or travellers cheque not exceeding US$ 10,000 or its equivalent, generally tourists can take out of India with them at the time of their departure foreign exchange/ currency not exceeding the above amount.

(iii) Indian residents going abroad are permitted to take with them foreign currency without any limit so long as the same has been purchased/issued by RBI approved/authorized foreign exchange dealer as per norms.

(iv) Carrying of Indian currency notes in the denomination of Rs.500 and Rs.1,000 to Nepal is prohibited.

3. Are costly items and electronic gadgets like camera/projector taken out of India dutiable when brought back?

Ans. For costly items which can be identifiable by Sl. No, Marks etc. the Customs Officer will issue an Export Certificate at the time of passengers' departure. While returning back, the passenger may show the Export Certificate to the Customs Officer who will examine the goods and allow the passage of the imported items without paying any duty. However, this arrangement doesn't hold for jewellery items, which has a separate procedure.

4. Are passengers allowed to take out flora and fauna with them?

Ans. Export of most species of wildlife and articles made from wild flora and fauna, such as ivory, musk, reptile skins, furs, shahtoosh etc. is prohibited.

Prohibited & Restricted Goods

Certain goods are prohibited (banned) or restricted (subject to certain conditions) for import and/or export. These are goods of social, health, environment, wildlife and security concerns. While it is not possible to list all the goods, more common of these are:

Prohibited Goods

- Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic substances

- Pornographic material

- Counterfeit and pirated goods and good infringing any of the legally enforceable intellectual property rights

- Antiquities - Firearms

- Maps and literature where India’s external boundaries are shown incorrectly

- Wild life products - Counterfeit Indian Currency notes, stamps and coins

- Specified live birds and animals

- Fake currency notes

Restricted Goods

- Ammunition.

- Live birds and animals including pets.

- Plants and their produce e.g. fruits, seeds.

- Endangered species of plants and animals, whether live or dead.

- Any goods for commercial purpose: for profit, gain or commercial usage.

- Radio transmitters not approved for normal usage.

- Gold and Silver, other than ornaments (for import only)

- Indian and foreign currency in excess of prescribed limits.

- Satellite phones

- Foreign currency in excess of amount legally obtained or in the case of tourists in excess of the amount declared on arrival or in excess of the exempted limit of declaration at the time of departure.

Penal Provisions

Please note that non-declaration, mis-declaration and concealment of imported goods are offences under the Customs Act, 1962 which may result in confiscation, fine, penalty and even prosecution.

The Customs Act, 1962 also empowers imposition of heavy penalties for those passengers who:

- Attempt to walk through the Green Channel with prohibited, restricted or dutiable goods

- Mis-declare their goods at the Red Channel - Attempt to export prohibited or restricted goods.

- Abet the commission of any of the above offences. The penal action may lead to:

- Absolute confiscation of goods or imposition of heavy fine in respect of the concerned goods if these are released

- Imposition of penalty on individuals or concerned entities

- Arrest and prosecution including invocation of preventive detention in serious cases.

Grievance Redressal

A passenger lodge his/her complaints or suggestions, if any, regarding Customs via:

(a) Feedback Forms at the Arrival hall.

(b) Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) Portal https://pgportal.gov.in

(c) Facebook pages of various Airport Customs formations.

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Indian Customs Gold Duty, Allowance And Rules (2023 Guide)

Indian Customs Gold Duty Allowance And Rules

The NRI Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 30 October 2023.

From gold jewellery gifted at weddings to investments in gold coins, Indians have a deep-seated affection for the yellow metal, driven by several factors.

A significant advantage of gold as an asset is its high liquidity and portability . It can be easily converted to cash in emergencies and readily exchanged as needed.

Indian expatriates, in particular, have a penchant for purchasing gold from abroad due to its lower prices and superior quality . Nevertheless, in recent years, stringent conditions and customs duties on gold imports have dissuaded many from bringing gold to India.

This article explains the Indian Customs gold duty , the latest rules, regulations, and procedures to follow while taking gold in and out of India.

Table of Contents

The below information has been prepared after studying the Indian Baggage Rules and traveller guidelines issued by the Central Board of Indirect Customs and Taxes .

Indian Customs Gold Duty Rules

To answer your questions, we will divide this into two parts:

  • Part 1: Carrying gold to India during travel (duty-free allowance)
  • Part 2: Importing gold to India as baggage (by paying customs duty)

Part 1: Carrying Gold To India During Travel

Let’s start with the most obvious question:

1. Is carrying gold to India legal?

Yes, it is entirely legal for Indian nationals to carry gold jewellery to India. However, the amount you can bring and the customs duty you need to pay depend on your residency status and the time you’ve spent abroad.

2. How much gold can I carry to India without paying customs duty?

If you have lived abroad for more than a year, you can bring gold jewellery up to a certain weight without paying customs duty.

  • For male passengers, the limit is 20 grams , with a maximum value of Rs. 50,000.
  • For female passengers, the limit is 40 grams , with a maximum value of Rs. 100,000.

Please note that since the current market price of gold per gram is more than Rs 5,000/gram, you cannot take 20/40 grams. So the limit will be the value of Rs 50,000/Rs 100,000.

3. Is the allowance applicable to children as well?

Yes, the duty-free allowance on gold jewellery also applies to children, provided they have stayed abroad for one year or more .

4. Can I bring a gold coin, gold biscuit or gold bar within the allowance?

No, the duty-free allowance only applies to gold jewellery . Other forms of gold, like coins, biscuits, or bars, are subject to customs duty.

5. What are the conditions for carrying gold to India as a duty-free allowance?

Here are the main conditions you need to know:

  • You must be an Indian citizen .
  • You should have stayed abroad for one year .
  • The gold must be in the form of jewellery , not in the form of coins, biscuits, or bars.
  • The maximum duty-free allowance is Rs. 50,000 for men and Rs. 100,000 for women.
  • Gold above this limit is subject to customs duty .

6. How much is the customs duty on excess gold jewellery?

If you’ve stayed abroad for more than a year and carry gold beyond the duty-free allowance, you will be required to pay a discounted duty of 13.75% .

7. Do I have to declare the gold if I am not asked about it?

Yes, if you have gold exceeding the standard duty-free allowance, you must declare it. Failing to declare it can lead to confiscation, penalties, and even legal consequences.

8. Do I have to pay duty if I bought the jewellery from India?

Any gold jewelry purchased in India is exempt from duty if you declare it correctly and obtain an export certificate at the customs desk before leaving the country.

Part 2: Importing Gold As Baggage

1. who can import gold as baggage.

“Passengers of Indian origin or a passenger holding a valid Indian passport, coming to India after a minimum of six months abroad , can import gold as baggage.

Short visits within six months are not considered if they total less than 30 days. Additionally, the passenger should not have utilized the exemption under this scheme during such short visits.

Apart from these passengers, others are not permitted to import gold as baggage.

2. How much is the Customs Duty for importing gold?

The customs duty for imported gold depends on the duration of your stay abroad:

  • One year or more: Duty-free allowance is Rs. 50,000 for males and Rs. 100,000 for females, and for gold above this limit, a 13.75% duty applies.
  • Six months to one year: No duty-free allowance, but gold up to 1 kg can be imported by paying a 13.75% duty.
  • Less than six months : No duty-free allowance and a 38.5% duty applies.

3. What is the maximum gold I can bring above the free allowance?

If you’ve stayed abroad for at least a year, you can bring up to 1 kg of gold on payment of duty , which can be in various forms such as jewelry, crude gold, gold coins, or gold biscuits.

4. I have visited India for a few days in the last six months. Can I qualify to bring gold?

Short visits to India (less than 30 days) within the preceding six months are not counted when determining eligibility to bring gold. You can import up to 1 kg of gold on payment of duty.

5. What if I did not complete six months of stay abroad?

If you haven’t stayed abroad for six months, a duty of 38.5% may be charged on all the gold you bring with you.

6. Do I have to carry the gold with me while travelling?

You can either bring the gold yourself upon arrival or import it as unaccompanied baggage within fifteen days of your arrival in India. There are no restrictions on selling gold in India.

The passenger can also obtain the permitted quantity of gold from the Customs bonded warehouse of the State Bank of India and Metals and Minerals Trading Corporation. This is subject to the same conditions.

8. How is the gold price calculated? Can I show the purchase receipt?

The price of gold is calculated based on the value notified by the government of India at the time of travel. While a purchase receipt can help prove the source, the value of the gold is determined based on the date of travel.

Payment of Gold Duty

To pay customs duty at a discounted rate, you must use foreign currency . Paying in Indian Rupees incurs a duty rate of 38.5%.

If you can’t provide authentic information about the gold jewellery or the means to pay the duty, customs officials may detain the jewellery and offer you the choice of paying the duty or re-exporting the gold when leaving India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am i allowed to carry small jewellery for daily use.

Generally, customs officials usually do not object to ladies wearing small, daily-use jewelry (e.g., a small chain, a pair of earrings, etc.). To ensure a smooth experience, you can obtain an export certificate before leaving India.

Is jewellery studded with stones included in the duty-free allowance?

The duty-free allowance applies exclusively to pure gold jewelry. Jewelry adorned with stones does not qualify for this allowance.

How much gold is allowed on international flights to India?

The duty-free gold allowance for male passengers is 20 grams (with a maximum value of Rs. 50,000), while for female passengers, it’s 40 grams (with a maximum value of Rs. 100,000).

How much gold is allowed from Dubai to India?

Male passengers returning to India from Dubai can bring gold jewelry weighing up to 20 grams, valued at not more than Rs. 50,000. Female passengers are permitted to bring up to 40 grams of gold jewelry, valued at no more than Rs. 1 lakh. Exceeding these limits requires payment of customs duty.

How much gold jewellery can I carry to the USA from India?

According to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), there is no specific limit on the amount of gold jewelry that can be brought into the United States. However, if the value of the jewelry exceeds $10,000, it must be declared to a CBP officer on a FINCEN 105 form upon entry. If the jewelry is a personal possession being brought back to the US, there is no need to declare it.

Related Articles:

  • Duty-Free Allowance At Indian Airports
  • Indian Airport Customs Duty On LCD/LED TV
  • Indian Customs Rules for Electronic Items
  • Transfer of Residence to India: Customs Rules for NRI
  • Indian Customs Cash Limit And Rules
  • Indian Customs Declaration Form

Copyright © NRIGuides.com – Unauthorized reproduction of this article in any language is prohibited. The information provided on this website is intended for general guidance and informational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice, and travellers are encouraged to verify visa requirements and travel advisories through official government sources before making any travel arrangements.

Reference: Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs , Baggage Rules 2016

Aneesh Abdulkader

Aneesh, the Founder & Editor of DG Pixels, holds a Master’s Degree in Communication & Journalism, and has two decades of experience living in the Middle East. Since 2014, he and his team have been sharing helpful content on travel, visa rules, and expatriate affairs.

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Chennai airport maximum gold. How many grams one year

I have question if I go India n carry some jewellery bracelet n chain etc that s having no custom duty tax but if I carry some gold buiscuites two in number 20 gram each means total 40 grams gold buiscuites if I carry with me n my hand baggage do I have to pay any extra tax I mean any custom duty tax if yes then how much I have to pay is it better to pay n indian currency or foreign currency please help

i sent my jewelry from newzealand which was purchased in india in this year February i sent it around a month ago and it cost 3,20,000 when i bought it, it has gold and diamond in it how much duty i have to pay? as something seems not right to me no one is helping me too.

When carrying gold jewelry to New Zealand, it’s essential to obtain an export certificate from Indian Customs at the airport. This certificate enables the re-importation of the same gold into India without incurring any customs duty. Failure to secure this certificate may result in customs duty being levied upon re-entry into India.”

Where can we purchase 20 grams of gold jewellery with a maximum value of Rs 50,000?

As they have mentioned already the gold rates may vary time to time. we have to stick with the amount limit which is 50k and 10k in rupees.

it is literally not a valuable practice, those who travel to usa are ultra rich but rich enough to wear minimum 100 grams of gold. in addition to that if they are the parents carry jewellery for daughters wedding etc.. will have to suffer by this treatment so need reconsideration

Hi The new rule of 20 grams for gents and 40 grams for women is non sense . What is the fate of persons came year ago with more gold ornaments.This nothing but exploitation by Government of india

Sir please reply me 20 grams gold value price in INR more than 50000rs , please answer me sir so can I carry 20 grams gold ? Please 🙏🙏🙏🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳

HI, WHAT IS TODAY(01SEP2023) UPDATE FOR GOLD CARYY TO INDIA WITHOUT PAYING CUSTOM DUTY

If I wear 24grams gold chain have I to pay tax?

Male person 20 gram gold female person 40 gram gold duty-free allows but irs money value is going very very poor when I come to abroad that time I sales 50 gram gold gram per 632irs 2005 Indian government changes customs gold role the roles only mention gold Wight

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April 2024 total solar eclipse guide: How to watch, understand and stay safe on April 8

The surreal midday darkness of a total solar eclipse will pass over the United States on April 8, 2024, and there's plenty you should know before the big day, which won't happen again for about two decades .

Of all the celestial sights , there's none quite like a total solar eclipse , when the sun, moon and Earth align and a narrow stretch of land is plunged into the moon's shadow. Millions of people are expected to travel to see the spectacle, which will also attract scientists from across the country to study its unique effects .

But seeing the sight for yourself requires some planning: You'll want to know where the path of totality is, how to get protective glasses, how bad traffic will be and many other things.

Read on for answers for all your eclipse questions, including how to watch the eclipse , understand the eclipse and stay safe during the eclipse .

WATCHING THE APRIL 2024 ECLIPSE

How do i watch the 2024 solar eclipse.

There are a few ways of watching the eclipse:

  • Get the full experience in person : If you're in a narrow band of U.S. land that spans from Texas to Maine, you will see the moon block the sun and its shadow cast a night-like darkness over Earth for a few minutes. You'll briefly be able to look up without eye protection and see the moon block the sun.
  • Watch from outside the path of totality : Much of the U.S. will get a partial view of the eclipse that isn't nearly as impressive as being in the path of totality. Earth won't be plunged into complete darkness and you'll have to wear protective eyewear to see the moon partially block the sun.
  • Watch a livestream : Check back on April 8 for a video feed from the path of totality. It's not the same as being there in person, but hey, at least you won't have to sit in traffic .

What time is the solar eclipse on April 8?

The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path.

You can search by zip code to find the exact time for your location.

Where will the April eclipse be visible?

All of the lower 48 U.S. states will see the moon at least clip the sun, but that sight is a trifle compared to being in the path of totality.

Because the narrow path includes or is near some of the nation's largest cities, expect millions of people to crowd into a band of land a little over 100 miles wide that spans from the Texas/Mexico border to the Maine/Canada border.

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

  • Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
  • Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
  • Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
  • Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
  • Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
  • Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
  • Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
  • Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
  • Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
  • Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
  • Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
  • Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
  • Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

Will clouds block the April 2024 eclipse?

It's too soon to say for sure, but history offers some clues.

Chances of cloudy skies are pretty high along much of the eclipse's northern path, and some areas such as Buffalo have about a 1-in-3 chance of clear skies in early April.

Skies are usually more clear to the south. Right along the Texas/Mexico border, chances of a clear sky can be nearly 75%.

Keep in mind that clouds don't always ruin an eclipse. High, wispy clouds won't spoil the show in the same way that low thick clouds would. In that case, you wouldn't be able to see the moon pass in front of the sun, but you would still notice a sudden darkness in the path of totality.

Where is the best place to watch the eclipse?

Texas is considered the best state for eclipse viewing . There's a good chance the skies will be clear and its location along the southern path of the eclipse means totality will last a little longer.

A few lucky travelers will also have a front-row seat with unobstructed views — from a plane .

Will traffic be bad?

Most likely, yes — especially after the eclipse ends . Millions of people will crowd into the narrow path of totality, then many will attempt to leave all at once as soon as the eclipse is over.

When a total solar eclipse passed over the U.S. in 2017, reports say some traffic jams didn't fully clear for more than 12 hours. Even worse, a recent study reported that the 2017 eclipse "was associated with increased risks of a fatal traffic crash" – potentially as much as a 31% increase, the study said .

Also worth noting: The eclipse is expected to have impacts for air travel as well.

UNDERSTANDING THE 2024 ECLIPSE

What is a solar eclipse definition explained..

A total solar eclipse happens when three celestial spheres — the sun, moon and Earth — line up in a specific way in space.

According to NASA, a solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth. That alignment casts a moving shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun's light in some areas. This leads to a period of partial or full darkness on a narrow stretch of Earth. 

The path is so narrow because of the huge distance and size of the sun — as well as the moon's distance from Earth. That focuses the moon's shadow on an area of land much smaller than the moon itself. The movement of the shadow across the land happens as the Earth's rotation interacts with the orbit of the moon.

A total eclipse only happens occasionally because the moon doesn't orbit in the exact same plane as the sun and Earth do. In addition, a solar eclipse can only happen during a new moon.

What's special about a total solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse on April 8  is causing such a stir because the rare event is an astronomical experience like no other that will be unusually accessible to millions of people.

April's total solar eclipse will fall over more places in the U.S. than the total eclipse before and after it. And the broad length of the path of totality – where Americans have the best shot of getting a clear view – is "much wider"  than it was for the eclipse in 2017 , according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

A total solar eclipse is also far more impressive  than a lunar or an annular solar eclipse. During an annular eclipse, the moon covers the Sun but leaves an outside ring some call a "ring of fire" — it darkens the sky instead of plunging Earth into a night-like darkness, which is what happens during a total solar eclipse. And a lunar eclipse – the appearance of a red moon – happens when the moon passes into the Earth's shadow, according to NASA.

Total solar eclipses can have spiritual significance, too . Ancient cultures viewed as a sign of the gods' anger or impending departure. Some religions today are hosting eclipse viewings and services.

Historically, eclipses have left major marks on religious and spiritual civilizations. In Christianity, an eclipse has been associated with the darkness that accompanied Jesus' crucifixion and in Islam, the passing of the Prophet Muhammad's son Ibrahim.

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

The  next visible total solar eclipse  to cross over the U.S. after April will come in more than two decades on Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

And that eclipse won't be as accessible as the 2024 one: The path of totality in 2044 will only touch the states of Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. Another total eclipse  will pass over the U.S. in 2045  that will be more accessible to Americans, including for people who live in California, Florida and Nevada.

ECLIPSE GLASSES AND SAFETY

What kind of glasses are needed for the eclipse.

Gazing at the bright rays from the eclipse without  protective eyewear  can cause serious damage the retina of the eye, so wearing a pair of safe glasses is important.

There's a technical standard for eclipse glasses, which are designed to block out most light and let you safely see the moon pass in front of the sun: It's called ISO 12312-2 after the International Organization of Standardization.

While there's concerns that not all glasses marketed as eclipse glasses live up to that standard, experts say usually the shortcomings aren't significant .

How can you tell if eclipse glasses are real?

NASA shared an easy method to vet eclipse glasses at home.

Buyers should put on their glasses and look at a bright light, like a flashlight. If the light is "extremely dim," or doesn't appear at all, the glasses are safe, Susannah Darling, of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said in an instructional video. Viewers should be able to see the filament of the lightbulb, not the glow surrounding the bulb.

Can you really go completely blind watching a solar eclipse?

No, but you could severely damage your eyes . Directly staring at the sun before and after the total eclipse, or watching a partial eclipse outside the path of totality without proper eye protection, can result in permanent damage including blurred and altered vision.

While rare, eye damage from watching a partial eclipse happens because a person's natural response to squint when looking at sunlight does not get triggered. In the leadup to the  April 8 solar eclipse ,  doctors and a rare set of eclipse watchers are warning about  watching this planetary event without adequate eclipse glasses or with the naked eye.

It’s hard for experts to know or even estimate how many people experience eye damage from solar eclipses. Since looking at an eclipse does not cause complete blindness, people with permanent damage may not know they have it or report it to a doctor. The  2017 eclipse , which passed from Oregon to South Carolina, is thought to have caused about 100 cases, according to the  American Astronomical Society .

How can I watch the eclipse without glasses?

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses do not use regular sunglasses — You need a more creative solution for safe viewing, like a pinhole projector .

Contributing: Ramon Padilla, Karina Zaiets and Janet Loehrke

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