Travelers returning to India, including NRIs and persons of Indian origin, will now benefit from a major change in jewellery import rules. Under the newly implemented Baggage Rules, 2026, the long-standing value cap on jewellery has been removed and replaced with a weight-based duty-free allowance.
According to government sources, this change is aimed at passengers returning after extended stays abroad. Instead of the jewellery’s market value, its weight will now determine whether customs duty is applicable. Women travelers can bring up to 40 grams of jewellery duty-free, while other passengers can carry up to 20 grams without incurring customs charges.
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Simpler and Transparent Process
The Indian government said the new weight-based system will simplify the process for both passengers and customs officials. Measuring weight is straightforward, reducing disputes and lengthy inspections over jewellery value. However, the duty-free exemption applies only to personal jewellery. Gold or silver brought in other forms, such as bullion or bars, will fall under separate rules and must be declared at customs.
Eligibility for Exemption
Officials clarified that the exemption is valid only for passengers who have spent at least one year abroad. Those returning from shorter trips will not automatically qualify for the weight-based duty-free allowance. Any jewellery exceeding the prescribed limit will attract customs duty, which must be duly declared.
Experts said the change is a welcome relief for travelers carrying family or cultural jewellery after extended stays abroad. Under previous rules, customs duty often depended on the jewellery’s market value, creating disputes. The new weight-based system makes the process straightforward and transparent.
The government believes the revised rules will enhance the travel experience for NRIs, foreign professionals of Indian origin, and long-term visitors, reducing delays and complications during airport inspections.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
