Buying an iPhone within the US? India’s New Customs Rule May Save You Additional Obligation

Buying an iPhone or different devices from overseas is now simpler and cheaper for Indian travellers. Under India’s up to date Customs Rules for 2026, the duty-free allowance for passengers arriving by air or sea has been elevated to Rs 75,000 from February 2, 2026. The increased restrict applies to Indian residents, NRIs, and folks of Indian origin, permitting them to carry personal-use gadgets like devices, garments, watches, and equipment with out paying customs obligation, up from the sooner Rs 50,000 cap.

iPhones and Laptops Get a Big Customs Boost

For iPhone patrons, India’s up to date Customs Rules for 2026 come as a transparent win. Since iPhones are often cheaper within the US, the upper duty-free allowance of Rs 75,000 means a big a part of the telephone’s value can now fall below the restrict, lowering the possibilities of paying further on the airport. This makes shopping for devices overseas far more cost effective than earlier than.

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Another main aid is for laptop computer patrons. Under the brand new guidelines, one laptop computer or pocket book may be introduced into India duty-free and doesn’t depend in the direction of the Rs 75,000 allowance. This applies to travellers aged 18 and above, excluding airline crew. In impact, your laptop computer now not eats into your buying price range.

Lower Duties, Clearer Limits for Travellers

If the worth of things like an iPhone exceeds Rs 75,000, the surplus is now taxed at a decrease price. Travellers pays a ten % customs obligation on the additional quantity, together with a ten % social welfare surcharge on that obligation. Earlier, the fundamental obligation was 20 %, so the revised construction nearly halves the extra value.

The decrease obligation applies to most personal-use gadgets similar to smartphones, cameras, smartwatches, and even sure meals merchandise. However, some exclusions stay, together with vehicles, alcohol and tobacco past permitted limits, flat-screen TVs, and gold bars. Gold jewelry is allowed inside limits for many who have lived overseas for greater than a 12 months. To keep away from points, travellers ought to carry buy payments, keep away from a number of sealed containers of the identical merchandise, and declare items actually if requested.

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