The Brew News spotlighted the outdated, decade-old rule last year, following NRI harassment cases.
Indian expatriates benefit as the value cap on duty-free gold jewellery is scrapped, and duty-free gold is now purely on weight basis.
DUBAI: Indian expatriates across the Gulf and beyond are welcoming a major change in India’s customs baggage rules, with the value cap on duty-free gold jewellery finally removed. This update, announced in the Union Budget 2026, simplifies travel for millions of Non-Resident Indians, especially during festive and family visits.
As of February 2, India’s Customs Baggage Rules, 2026 have come into effect, replacing decade-old regulations that previously enforced both weight and value caps on gold jewellery. Female passengers of Indian origin can now carry up to 40 grams of gold or silver jewellery duty-free, while male passengers are allowed up to 20 grams. The removal of the associated value thresholds — previously ₹1 lakh for women and ₹50,000 for men — is a significant relief.
These changes follow sustained public and media scrutiny over outdated customs practices. Notably, The Brew News had highlighted the issue last year, after multiple incidents involving NRI harassment at Indian airports. A high-profile case involving community leader Vasu Shroff, related to a personal luxury watch, sparked particular outrage.
With the value cap on duty-free gold now eliminated, compliance becomes simpler and less stressful. Travellers no longer need to provide invoices or face penalties based on fluctuating gold prices.
In addition to jewellery, India has also raised the general allowance for imported goods to ₹75,000 for residents and Indian-origin tourists arriving by air or sea. Foreign tourists are permitted up to ₹25,000 duty-free, under specific conditions.
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) stated that the revised rules are aimed at aligning with modern travel norms, reducing friction at ports of entry and offering relief to the diaspora.
