The authorities of India have announced the implementation of new customs rules that regulate duty-free import of personal belongings for both tourists and local residents, reports RIA Novosti.
According to the new guidelines published on the government website, tourists arriving in the country on a tourist visa can bring in personal belongings worth up to 25,000 rupees (276 US dollars). Foreigners arriving on other visas are entitled to duty-free import of goods worth no more than 75,000 rupees (830 dollars). This same rule applies to local residents and tourists of Indian origin.
As reported by the PTI agency, the new regulations increase the previous limits: for tourists, the limit has risen from 15,000 to 25,000 rupees, and for local residents, from 50,000 to 75,000 rupees. However, the official clarifications do not specify how personal belongings will be assessed and any potential fines for exceeding the limit.
There are also restrictions on the import of jewelry made of gold and platinum: women can bring in up to 40 grams duty-free, while men can bring in up to 20 grams.
Additionally, the new rules allow for the duty-free import of one laptop and pets.
The Ministry of Finance of India emphasized that the new rules consolidate and update 35 previously existing circulars.
“The updated system aims to increase duty-free import limits, reduce processing time, implement digital and simplified processes, and streamline procedures to enhance passenger comfort. It will also help strengthen India’s image as a country open to international connections and friendly to tourists, through the uniform application of rules in customs authorities,” the ministry noted.
