India Simplifies Customs For International Traveller
India has delivered a major boost for international travellers by rolling out a comprehensive reform of its airport customs framework. The introduction of the Baggage Rules 2026 marks one of the most significant updates to the country’s baggage regulations in years, raising duty-free allowances while addressing long-standing concerns over delays, ambiguity and inconsistent enforcement at airports.
Higher duty-free allowance reflects modern travel
At the core of the reform is a higher general duty-free allowance, increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. The revised threshold reflects the realities of contemporary travel, where passengers routinely carry personal electronics, gifts and higher-value belongings. The new allowance applies to Indian residents, persons of Indian origin and foreign nationals holding valid non-tourist visas. Foreign tourists are entitled to a ₹25,000 allowance, while crew members retain a lower limit of ₹2,500. Passengers entering India through land borders remain excluded from any general duty-free entitlement.
Unified nationwide framework replaces outdated rules
The Baggage Rules 2026 come into force alongside the Customs Baggage (Declaration and Processing) Regulations 2026 and a consolidated Master Circular, replacing the fragmented system that previously governed passenger baggage. The new framework applies uniformly across all customs locations, reducing discrepancies between airports and limiting disputes during clearance. Authorities developed the rules following consultations with government bodies, airport operators and other stakeholders, while also factoring in passenger feedback and rising international traffic volumes.
Digital declarations and faster clearance
A key pillar of the reform is the expanded use of digital tools. Electronic and advance baggage declarations are now actively encouraged, allowing customs authorities to streamline processing, reduce congestion at arrival halls and improve transparency. The shift is expected to significantly cut clearance times and reduce the uncertainty travellers often faced under the earlier system.
Clearer rules for returning residents
The updated rules bring clarity to Transfer of Residence benefits for individuals relocating back to India after extended stays abroad. Instead of multiple item-specific exemptions, the new system introduces a single, rationalised list of household goods with an overall duty-free cap linked to the length of time spent overseas. This approach simplifies assessments, speeds up clearance and lowers the risk of disagreements between passengers and customs officials.
Jewellery, temporary imports and special items
Jewellery imports, a frequent source of delays in the past, have been simplified through a shift from value-based assessments to clear weight-based limits. Female passengers returning after more than one year abroad may import up to forty grams duty-free, while other passengers are allowed up to twenty grams. By removing valuation from the process, enforcement becomes more consistent and predictable.
The rules also introduce provisions for temporary import and re-export of baggage through dedicated certificates. This facility benefits travellers carrying professional tools, technical equipment or high-value items for short-term use, reducing disruption at both arrival and departure points.
A more traveller-friendly arrival experience
The revised framework consolidates existing concessions, formally embedding the right of passengers aged eighteen and above to import one laptop duty-free and standardising regulations for the import of pets. Combined with higher allowances and simplified procedures, the new rules aim to make India’s airports more efficient and welcoming while maintaining effective customs oversight.
As experts at International Investment report, the Baggage Rules 2026 represent a strategic move to modernise India’s customs system. By aligning regulations with global travel trends, raising duty-free limits and prioritising digital processing, India strengthens its appeal as a more accessible destination for tourists, professionals and international investors alike.