The Indian government has implemented the Baggage Rules 2026 from February 2, 2026. According to the new rules, the duty-free allowance for passengers arriving in India has been increased.

Traveling abroad has become easier these days. People travel abroad for work, studies, tourism, or shopping, and often bring back some goods to India. However, there are certain rules and limits set by the Customs Department regarding bringing goods into India from abroad. These are called Baggage Rules. Recently, the central government has made significant changes to these rules for passengers arriving in India from abroad.

New Baggage Rules 2026

The Indian government has implemented the Baggage Rules 2026 from February 2, 2026. According to the new rules, the duty-free allowance for passengers arriving in India has been increased. This means that you can now bring goods up to a certain value into India without paying customs duty.

How much luggage can you bring to India from abroad?

Indian citizens and tourists of Indian origin arriving in India by air or sea can now bring goods worth up to Rs. 75,000 without paying any customs duty. This merchandise must be for personal use and should be in the passenger's own baggage. This includes everyday used items, clothing, shoes, and small souvenirs. This rule also applies to infants.

What are the customs rules for this?

Foreign tourists arriving in India can now bring goods worth up to Rs. 25,000 without paying customs duty. Previously, this limit was only Rs. 15,000. Earlier, the Baggage Rules 2016 were in effect in India. According to those rules, Indian citizens or tourists of Indian origin could bring goods worth up to Rs. 50,000 duty-free. Foreign tourists could only bring goods worth up to Rs. 15,000 without paying tax. However, now you can bring in goods worth up to ₹75,000 without paying any customs duty, and foreign tourists can bring in goods worth up to ₹25,000 without customs duty.

Why was this change made?

The government made this change keeping in mind the convenience of travelers. Indian passengers are now allowed to bring in more goods. Foreign tourists can also easily bring in goods during their visit to India. This rule provides relief to travelers for shopping, souvenirs, and personal belongings.

When did the new rule come into effect?

The new rule came into effect on February 2, 2026. It applies to passengers arriving by air and sea. Different rules may apply to passengers arriving by land (border crossings).