India Baggage Rules

Indian Customs Forms

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 12:14:00 -0700

Whats New ?? Whats Changed

India Embarkation Card

Indians flying abroad are no longer required to fill departure cards, but those going out of the country via rail, seaport and land immigration checkposts will have to fill the embarkation card.

This departure card is applicable to only Indian Nationals departing India.

Indian Customs Declaration Form

Nothing to declare? Flyers not to fill customs form .

Passengers flying to India and not carrying any dutiable goods will not have to fill up customs declaration form. Earlier this was mandatory for all passengers coming to India.

The new rules will also apply to the members of the crew of a vessel or an aircraft.

India Arrival Card

Indian nationals, are now exempt from filling Arrival card. (Disembarkation Card / Arrival Form)

Indian Immigration Arrival Form : For Foreigners
India Arrival Card is applicable only to Foreign Nationals (including OCI card holders) traveling to India.

Indian Passport Holders do NOT need to complete any arrival card.

India Airport Customs : Travelling to India with Drone

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 09:27:00 -0700

What are the Drone rules and regulations in India ??
Can we carry drone to India?
Will the drone be confiscated by the airport customs ??
Is Drone photography/video permitted in India over public property ?

Indian drone regulations

Flying drones is now legal in India Official Drone Regulation PDF

Drone use is limited by state and will require cumbersome registration processes.

The DGCA uses the term “remotely piloted aircraft” (RPA) to describe an unmanned aircraft piloted from a remote pilot station, differentiating them from model aircraft.

Most operators will require a permit (UAOP) but nano and micro drones flying low or inside are exempted.

Drone Classification

Nano : Less than or equal to 250 grams.
Micro : From 250 grams to 2kg.
Small : From 2kg to 25kg.
Medium : From 25kg to 150kg.
Large : Greater than 150kg.

Before every single flight in India, drone pilots are required to request permission to fly via a mobile app, which will automatically process the request and grant or reject it.

The Indian government has said that while it restricts the use of drones, it has not banned their import.

Foreigners are currently not allowed to fly drones in India.

The Indian Customs Declaration Form has been revised to include drones in the list of prohibited and dutiable goods. It is now mandatory for the passengers to declare it.

Passengers entering India will now have to declare their possession of drones upon arrival. They will also have to pay an extra duty on it.

Am I allowed to bring drones into India? Will it get confiscated by airport customs or security?

There is plenty of evidence of travellers taking their drone into India, and using it. Your obligation will be to declare the drone, and head for the Red Channel when you reach customs.

India has plenty of no-fly zones especially anywhere near an international border, military areas and airport areas.

There are some instances of tourists getting arrested for flying drones.

If you want to use a drone for a event i suggest to hire one.

Trying to deal with the Indian Customs is pointless. Indian bureaucracy is not the best. It'll take you forever to get any kind of clarification, if at all.

Chinese national uses drone to film temple, held

Flying in? Declare your drone

Best Visitor Medical Insurance. Travel Insurance for USA Travel

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 08:20:00 -0700

Best Travel Insurance for USA Visit

Traveling to the United States to meet your loved ones can be a wonderful experience, but it is also important to ensure that everyone is safe and protected along the way.

Good Idea or Waste of Money?

Traveling to USA always involves risks, such as the risk of getting sick or having an accident, losing or having your valuables stolen, missed flights and even the loss of life in extreme cases.

Travel Medical insurance primarily provides coverage if you were to unexpectedly get sick or injured while visiting United States, and paying for a travel insurance premium is one of those things you pay for in the hopes you never need to use it.

Honestly, buying travel insurance is not cheap. Peace of mind is priceless!

Healthcare is extremely expensive in the United States, Don't take chances without visitors insurance.

Sometimes you wonder if its good deal or a ripoff.

Cost is an important factor. It usually depends on the traveler's age, coverage amount limit, and type of plan.

Comprehensive travel insurance plans cover certain type of travel related coverage, such as baggage loss, and travel-related emergencies.

What does medical travel insurance include?

Emergency Medical Expenses

Trip Interruption

Emergency Medical Evacuation / Repatriation

Return of Mortal Remains

Loss of Checked Luggage

Accidental Death & Dismemberment

Pre-existing conditions are normally not covered!

India GST and Custom Duty Changes

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 14:07:00 -0700

India GST & Custom Duty

GST on Imports in India
Would there be any changes on BCD (Basic Customs Duty) after GST? Are there any changes in Education Cess, Anti-dumping duty, Safeguard duty? What is the changes in CVD and SAD after introduction of GST?

BCD has been kept outside the purview of GST and will be charged as per the current law only.

India GST Custom Duty

New Custom Duty on Gold
Prior to GST being implemented, the overall tax rate on gold jewellery stands at 12.2%. ( 10% customs duty, 1% excise duty, and 1.2% VAT)

GST replaces the excise duty and VAT components, but sits on top of the Import Duty. The Gold rate of 3% announced on 3rd June is significantly lower than many had feared. And, on the face of it, represents only a modest tax increase.

VAT varies state-by-state from 1% in Rajasthan to 5% in Kerala. Additional local taxes can push the overall tax on gold jewellery even higher

10 percent basic customs duty (BCD)
On the same day of Goods and Service Tax (GST) roll out across the country, the Government also imposed a 10 percent basic customs duty (BCD) on cellular mobile phones and specified parts of cell phones such as chargers, battery, wired headphones, microphones, keypad, USB cables, and receivers.

Also, the basic customs duty charges of 10 percent will also be applicable for “certain other specified electronic goods,” but the government did not disclose the items.

Impact of GST on imports in India
On the imports side there would be no major impact on levy of Basic Customs duty, Education Cess, Anti-dumping duty, Safeguard duty and the like. However, the Additional duties of Customs, which are in common parlance referred to as Countervailing Duty (CVD) and Special Additional duty
of Customs (SAD), would be replaced with the levy of Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST), barring a few exceptions.

How much Alcohol can you carry Duty Free to India ?

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 8 Mar 2017 21:01:00 -0800

What is the Indian Duty Free Allowance & Entitlements for Alcohol ?

You are allowed to carry 2 litres of Alcoholic Liquor or Wine.

Whisky, Cognac, Brandy, Gin, Rum, Vodka, Tequila

If you are buying duty free at a international airport abroad, then you can carry it as a part of your cabin baggage.

However in case you are buying it outside the airport or have been gifted the alcohol or wine will have to go in your checked luggage.

Connected Domestic Flights in India

In case you are taking a local connecting flight within India you will have to check in the alcohol bottles including those bought at Duty Free Shops in India.

Duty is payable if items are brought in excess of the prescribed limits

Duty around 100% - 170%
Total Duty = BCD + ACD + education cess @3%

BCD - Basic Customs Duty
ACD - Additional Customs Duty

Top Alcoholic Liquor
Johnnie Walker
Black Label
Red Label
Chivas Regal
Jack Daniels Whiskey
Grey Goose
Costco Vodka
Black Velvet

Duty free booze how much can bring into India per person ??
Bringing Duty Free Alcohol into India ??

How much gold can you bring to India ??

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 8 Mar 2017 17:40:00 -0800

How much Gold can i legally import into India

How much gold can I carry to India without worrying about duties?

50,000 / 100000 Limit

A passenger residing abroad for 1+ year, on return to India, shall be allowed clearance free of duty in his bona fide baggage of jewellery,

Rs 50,000 Male Passenger
a male passenger can get up to a weight of 20 grams with a value cap of Rs 50,000

Rs 50,000 Female Passenger
a female passenger can bring up to a weight of 40 grams with a value cap of Rs 100,000

Earlier these were defined as value of Rs 50,000 & Rs. 100,000 only.

Most Gold Imports to India Come from Gulf Countries (Middle East) : UAE, Dubai, Saudi Arabia

Gold Purity (parts, or karats)
22k, 24k, 21k and 18k

Note: Custom duties can be changed by the authorities at any time. Check with the concerned authorities for latest information

How much currency can you carry to India?

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 8 Mar 2017 16:09:00 -0800

How much currency can you carry to India?

Indian Customs limit on the amount of cash (Indian and Foreign currency) you can carry in and out of India with you.

Indian Rupee Rules : Currency

Latest Update

Import of INR is prohibited, except for residents of India importing up to INR 7,500

Currency Import regulations:

Foreign currencies :

Unlimited : No Import Limit on Foreign currencies

However, amounts

exceeding USD 5,000. (or equivalent) in cash

or

USD 10,000.- (or equivalent) in traveler's cheques must be declared

Local currency (Indian Rupee INR 7,500):

Import of INR is prohibited, except for residents of India importing up to INR 7,500

Foreign currencies include

currency notes
traveler's cheques
cheques, drafts

can be exchanged only through banks and authorized money exchange points.

Indian rupee demonetisation is done deal

Currency Export regulations:Foreign currencies : up to the amount imported and declared.

Local currency (Indian Rupee-INR): INR 7,500

For residents of India, except when departing to Bhutan and Nepal. For residents departing to Bhutan and Nepal: no limit in amount of INR but notes no bigger than INR 100.- may be carried.

Foreign currencies include currency notes, traveler's cheques, cheques, drafts etc can be exchanged only through banks and authorized money exchange agents.

Latest Indian Currency Rules

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 8 Mar 2017 15:30:00 -0800

Latest Indian Currency Rules

Indian residents going abroad are allowed to take with them foreign currency up to any amount so long as the same has been purchased from an authorized foreign exchange dealer as per norms.

USD 5,000 & USD 10000

Any person resident out of India is allowed to take out of India unspent foreign currency not exceeding the amount brought by him on his arrival in India provided that in the case of foreign currency notes exceeding US $5,000/- or its equivalent or foreign exchange in the form of currency notes, bank notes or traveller’s cheques exceeding US$ 10,000/- or its equivalent, the same was declared to the Customs authorities in Currency Declaration Form (CDF) at the time of his arrival in India.

http://www.customsmumbaiairport.gov.in/forms/Content.aspx?LinkID=70

Passengers flying into India have to declare over Rs 10,000

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Sun, 16 Feb 2014 05:55:00 -0800

Declare Indian Currency exceeding Rs 10,000

Passengers flying into India will have to declare Indian currency exceeding Rs 10,000 being brought by them, according to new customs rules which will be implemented from next month.
Besides, they will also be asked to declare number of baggage, including hand baggage, while entering into India, said the new rules notified by the finance ministry.

India's 2013/14 budget : Customs Duty

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 06:02:00 -0800

India's 2013/14 budget Updates

Lady Passenger

The duty free allowance on jewellery for an Indian passenger, who has been residing abroad for over one year or a person who is transferring residence to India, has been raised to Rs 1 lakh in case of a lady passenger from Rs 50,000 earlier.

Male Passenger

For a male passenger, this has been raised to Rs 50,000 from Rs 10,000.

Moreover, precious stones will become cheaper as the basic customs duty has been cut to 2 per cent from 10 per cent on pre-forms of precious and semi-precious stones.

Site Map : Indian Government Customs & Baggage Law

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 6 Feb 2008 06:52:00 -0800

Import regulations by India Customs

India's 2013/14 budget Updates : Custom Duty
The duty free allowance on jewellery for an Indian passenger, who has been residing abroad for over one year or a person...

Toy Helicopters Ban
Recently 6,000 toy helicopters confiscated from passengers over the last two years.

India Custom's Tariff
Personal and household effects are treated as baggage and can be imported freely without any restriction as to the value of the goods..

Customs Website
Central Board of Excise and Customs website & URLs

India Custom Duty on Alcoholic Beverages
The approximate rates of duty for these items:

Registering a complaint : vigilance
The problem of people trying to bypass customs and customs officials harassing people arises because the people are not aware about the rules. The Indian customs officials use that to their advantage.

Prohibited and Restricted Goods
The term “Prohibited Goods” has been defined in sub-section 33 of Section 2 of the Customs Act as meaning “any goods the import or export of which is subject to any prohibition under the Customs Act or any other law for the time being in force”

Taking LCD TV to India : Indian Custom Duty on LCD TV

Is it a good idea to take Game Console to India ??

Frequently Asked Questions Faqs

Laptop Rule
Import duty for bringing laptops into India....One Laptop Duty Free

Import of Gold & Silver
FAQs on Import of Gold by NRI's

Importing Firearms
Import of firearms is strictly prohibited. Import of Cartridges in excess of 50 is also prohibited.

Import of Passenger Automobiles to India

India Customs Rules for Transferring Residency to ...
Transfer of Residence entitlements are applicable to returning Indians

India Currency Regulations
Money should be exchanged only at authorized centers likes banks and money changers who will in turn issue an encashment certificate that is required...

India Currency: Indian Rupee Rs INR
The issuance of the currency is controlled by the Reserve Bank of India. The most commonly used symbols (abbreviated) for the rupee are Rs, Rs....

Foreign Exchange Import of Indian Currency

India Airports

Mumbai Airport

Temporary Banned Items by Indian Customs

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 6 Feb 2008 06:52:00 -0800

From time to time Indian Customs ban certain item due to security reasons

Recently 6,000 toy helicopters confiscated from passengers over the last two years.

The Ministry of Communication and IT had instructed the airport Customs department in 2010 to seize high frequency radio-controlled toy helicopters owing to security reasons. Customs authorities, however, were not given guidelines on the disposal of the same and are now facing a space crunch in their warehouses.

Restrictions have been imposed on the import of aero models that run on high radio bandwidths because of their possible interference with the communication networks of security agencies.

Intelligence agencies suggested a ban on such toys and the Ministry of Communication and IT issued a notification on September 16, 2010 (a copy of which is with SMD) and the Customs department was asked to confiscate all such imports. The ministry issued another letter on October 5, 2010 in which it cleared which frequencies were to be permitted.

Is it a good idea to take Game Console to India ??

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 6 Feb 2008 06:52:00 -0800

xBox, PS3 or Wii

After paying indian customs ... it will turn out cheaper in India

Some consoles are region specific & doesn’t come with international warranty & moreover the games which are available in India will not work with some console because of the regional differences

Most US / European consoles work on 110 volts and if you accidently plug it into 220/240 ............ and its really costly to sent it all the way to US/ Europe for repair ...... it would too long be a period and you might end up paying whole lot.

Buy Step Down Converter
220 to 110 volts voltage converter, voltage transformer, international converter, voltage transformer

If you ship it using a Carrier
Using a carrier like DHL/Fedex/UPS will get your items through customs without any hassle, only that you'll have to pay duty.

Taking LCD TV to India : Indian Custom Duty on LCD TV

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 6 Feb 2008 06:51:00 -0800

You have to pay duty on all flat panel televisions

(LCD, LED, Plasma etc).

Can anyone confirm how much duty will be applicable on an led, lcd tv ?

Update : 36.05% Tax on LCD / LED / PLASMA

Isn’t it covered under the Duty Free Allowance?

No, Duty Free Allowance is not applicable to flat panel televisions since 26 August 2013.

Customs Duty is applicable to flat panel televisions of ALL SIZES.

The goods over and above the free allowances of 25K (which includes electronics and jewellery - excluding one laptop) shall be chargeable at more then 35% customs duty - you need to pay duty on anything exceeding 25K

Too many people are asking what K stands for ?
K stands for thousand
Example 25K means 25 x 1000 = 25000

If you take it when you Return to India for Good, you will pay only 15% duty under Transfer of Residence

The 36.05% is calculated based on cost price or market price in India?
36.05% on “assessed value”

The value will be assessed on arrival, based on parameters such as make, model, condition of the TV : whether new or old etc.

To help in assessment, Customs Officers have an internal database with popular TV models and their prices.

Please have your tv reciept handy in case of dispute.

Allowances cannot be pooled, even among family members.

Reciepts / Bills / Invoice ?
Always it is good to have receipts ready or you will end up paying customs duty for somewhat arbitrary value for the TV, fixed by the india customs

The duty is assessed on the "value" of the goods rather than the figure that may be written on any "invoice" produced by the importer. Customs have a database which is used to assess the value so underdeclaring value to avoid duty doesn't work anymore.

Do not try to bribe a customs officer to avoid the duty.
The penalties for being caught initiating a bribe are quite significant and unpleasant nowadays. You will have to tackle Indian customs on your own and if you have the knack and know how to deal with them, you can get away easily, else, you pay through your nose.

Voltage and Frequency differences

Indian power voltage is 240 volts while the United States has 115 volts ... you may need voltage converter and a plug adapter

Which brand/model will work in India?

I want to buy a TV only after I am sure that it will work there.
The Digital broadcast standard selected by India is DVB-T while that in the U.S., it's ATSC. Analogue standards (PAl and NTSC) are incompatible too. Make sure the USA bought TV will work in India.LCD TVs prices in India are very expensive compared to US.

My parents are visiting us in the US right now. They want to take a 32" LCD TV back to India....... Is it Worth It ?

Some models of the TV's and Blue Ray Players now are multi Region (NTSC/ATSC/PAL/QAM)

When You use a SET-UP Box with HDMI Output (Reliance Big TV / SUN Direct / Airtel) you don't have to worry about PAL / NTSC cause they all relay DIGITAL Signal.

If you're planning to use this "LCD TV" as a computer monitor, then you can consider taking it to India.

Airlines will not charge anything additional, other than what they charge for an extra box/package as shipped with your baggage. (airlines cover it if its lost and not if it is broken)

You get good LCD TVs in India which will work with Indian PAL standard and 240 volts and you'll get local warranty as well as support too.

Is It Risky To Carry A LCD TV In Airline Luggage? Can It Be Damaged?
It can be risky! You can request that they label it fragile upon checking the item it. This does not guarantee it will arrive unharmed.

They may not allow you to check it in once you share its contents.

Should they allow, it still must meet the airline’s baggage requirements.

Most, if not all airlines, restrict baggage weight and size.

Baggage over 70lbs are restricted and if allowed you will be charged a set amount.

They also have restrictions based on length and height.

Transport LCD TV
The absolute best way to transport an LCD TV is in the original box with the original styrofoam forms that protected it - If its in the original packing, it should be able to survive the journeyAssuming you can't do that, your best bet is to pack it as firmly as possible around the back, sides, and only the frame in front. Have nothing pressing on the screen itself.

You get good LCD TVs in India which will work with Indian standard and 240 volts and you'll get local warranty as well as support too.

There is no point in buying in US and taking it to India. Simply too many hassles.

We get so many postings that unfortunately, it will not be possible to respond to you individually.

India Custom Duty on Alcoholic Beverages

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 6 Feb 2008 06:51:00 -0800

India Custom Duty on Alcoholic Beverages
Red Label Johnnie Walker / Chivas Regal

Latest Update

India Custom Duty on Alcoholic Beverages

Free Allowance on Alcoholic drinks

How many liquor bottles allowed to carry from abroad ?

Alcoholic liquor or wines upto 2 litres can be bought without paying duty

Alcoholic drinks and Tobacco products imported in excess of the free allowance are charged to duty at the rates applicable to their commercial imports and not at the usual baggage duty rate.

The approximate rates of duty for these items:

Wine/Beer/Champagne upto USD $25 per case* :- 260.6% of the CIF value.
Whisky/Cognac/Brandy/Gin/Rum/Vodka - upto USD $ 10 per case* : 547% of the CIF value.
over USD $10 to $20 per case* : 416.12% of the CIF value.

Wine/Beer/Champagne over USD $25 and upto $40 per case* :- 208.06% of the CIF value.
Whisky/Cognac/Brandy/Gin/Rum/Vodka - over USD $20 to $40 per case* : 286.34% of the CIF value.

Alcoholic Drinks over USD $40 per case* :
Wine/Beer/Champagne - 146.26% of the CIF value.
Whisky/Cognac/Brandy/Gin/Rum/Vodka - 234.84% of the CIF value.

* 1 case = 9 litre. Pro-rata calculation to be made to determine value where the beverage comes in packages other than cases.

Looks like Indian Liquor Lobby is very Powerful

India Custom's Tariff

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 19:45:00 -0800

Baggage Definition The term "Baggage" is defined as "Baggage that includes unaccompanied baggage but does not include motor vehicles". A passenger (tourist) is required to comply with certain provisions of the Indian Customs Law. The owner of any baggage shall, for the purpose of clearing it make a declaration of its contents to the customs officer (no written declaration is needed and oral declaration is usually acceptable).

The rate of duty and tariff valuation, if any, applicable to the baggage shall be the rate and valuation in force on the date, on which a declaration is made in respect of such baggage. In respect of the goods personally brought in by the passengers it means approximately the retail price of the goods paid abroad (always carry the original invoice/bill to settle the disputes).

India Custom Duty on Alcoholic Beverages
The approximate rates of duty for these items:

Taking LCD TV to India : Indian Custom Duty on LCD TV

A tourist is a passenger....

Who is not normally a resident in India.
Who enters India for a stay of not more than six months in the course of any twelve months period for legitimate non-immigrant purposes, such as - touring, recreation, sports, health, family reasons, study, religious pilgrimage or business.

The prerequisites for treating any articles or goods as baggage is that they were in use of the passenger or were brought and paid for by the passenger.

Personal and household effects are treated as baggage and can be imported freely without any restriction as to the value of the goods. However they should be imported in reasonable quantities. Goods in commercial quantities may be allowed to be imported as baggage based on the merits of the case.

India is making a concerted effort to make the airport experience a better one than historically; this includes attempting to make immigration/emigration and customs procedures simpler and more friendly.

Check Thokalath.com's India Airport Customs Duty, Tariff & Tax for more Information

Customs Website

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 19:15:00 -0800

Central Board of Excise and Customs website

Commissionerates :

Central Excise, Ahmedabad-I

Central Excise Bangalore

Customs Commissionerate - Ahmedabad

Customs -Bangalore

Customs and Central Excise Commissionerate - Bhubaneswar

Central Excise & Customs - Calicut

Commissionerates of Chennai-I / Chennai-II / Chennai-III

Customs - Chennai

Cochin Central Excise Commissionerate

Customs - Cochin

Central Excise - Delhi Zone

Central Excise - Dibrugarh

Customs - Hyderabad

Indian Customs at IGI Airport, New Delhi

Customs and Central Excise Commissionerate - Jammu & Kashmir

Commissionerate of Customs (Preventive) - Jamnagar

Commissionerate of Central Excise - Kanpur

Customs - Kolkata

Air cargo, Sahar, Mumbai

Customs - Jawahar Customs House, Mumbai

Customs - Mumbai

Central Excise - Mysore

Central Excise - Nagpur

Central Excise Commissionerate - Puducherry

Customs - Pune

Central Excise Commissionerate - Shillong

Central Excise Commissionerate - Surat-I

Customs - Tuticorin

Central Excise Commissionerate - Vadodara-II

Custom House - Visakhapatnam

Registering a complaint : vigilance

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 18:39:00 -0800

"Indian Customs Officers are masters in intepreting rules, regulations, circulars, notices etc according to their wills & fancies to harass individuals"

The Directorate General of Vigilance is an attached office of the Central Board of Excise & Customs (CBEC) in the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India. It is headed by the Director General of Vigilance who is also the Chief Vigilance Officer of the Central Board of Excise & Customs.

If you have ever paid a Bribe >> Please Post it at I Paid a Bribe

For dealing with complaints against corrupt practices by officers, the customs department has a separate vigilance organisation headed by the Directorate General of Vigilance. Any complaints of corruption against the officer can be logged with the D.G. Vigilance at New Delhi or the Zonal units of the Directorate of Vigilance.

In real life things are little different, 99% of the airport custom agents are corrupt Bribe Rates for Delhi Customs & Excise

Mumbai customs is notorious for having people asking for bribes or to help you "cut through the line"

The problem of people trying to bypass customs and customs officials harassing people arises because the people are not aware about the rules. The Indian customs officials use that to their advantage.

Grievance Redressal Mechanism

Grievances can primarily be divided into three categories:

Complaints of corrupt practices against officers
Delay in decision making by officers.
Grievances against merits of the decision taken by officers.

How can you file a complaint?

Here is a link to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO)

Email to the PM of India

Insider Sources say that Letters to PMO are making the biggest impact

You wil not get a Response from PMO but is making a very big difference ...

Central Vigilance Commission

Lodge Complaint at CVC

Frequently asked Questions (FAQ) on lodging Complaints at CVC.

As long as you are complying with the provisions of the law there is nothing to fear. In the event of any harassment by any officer, you may immediately contact the senior most officers on duty, usually the Deputy Commissioner of Customs. In case of demands for illegal gratification/graft, there are explicit directions/Notices at every airport on whom to contact???

About Indian Custom Officer
Abrasive, arrogant, bloated, callous, cold, complex, corrupt, discourteous, heartless, inefficient, insensitive, lethargic, mindless, negative, obstructive, opaque, oppressive, ponderous, rude, wasteful, wooden

Prohibited and Restricted Goods

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 18:00:00 -0800

India Customs Prohibited Items

The term “Prohibited Goods” has been defined in sub-section 33 of Section 2 of the Customs Act as meaning “any goods the import or export of which is subject to any prohibition under the Customs Act or any other law for the time being in force”

Travelling to India with Drone

Taking LCD TV to India : Indian Custom Duty on LCD TV

Toy Helicopters Ban
Recently 6,000 toy helicopters confiscated from passengers over the last two years.

Certain goods are prohibited (banned) or restricted (subject to certain conditions) for import and/or export. These are goods of social, health, environment, wild life and security concerns. Some of them are listed below:

Prohibited Goods

Satellite Phone
Antiquities
Wild life products
Human skeleton
Specified sea-shells
Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
Pornographic and obscene material
Counterfeit and pirated goods and goods infringing any of the legally enforceable intellectual property rights
Aero models (such as remote controlled toy helicopters) that operate on high radio bandwidths because of their
possible interference with the communication networks of security agencies.
Indian coins which are covered by the Antique and Art Treasure Act, 1972.
Maps and literature where Indian external boundaries have been shown incorrectly, in view of Government of India.
Chemicals mentioned in Schedule 1 to the Chemical Weapons Convention of U.N. 1993.
Beef, tallow, fat/oil of animal origin
Exotic birds except a few specified ones
Wild animals, their parts and products
Specified Live birds and animals

Restricted Goods

Drones
Medicines and drugs
Firearms and ammunition
Live birds and animals including pets
Plants and their produce e.g. fruits, seeds
Endangered species of plants and animals, whether live or dead.
Any goods for commercial purpose: for profit, gain or commercial usage.
Radio transmitters not approved for normal usage
Gold and Silver, other than ornaments (for import only)
Currency in excess of prescribed limits
Telephone and telephony equipments of restricted frequencies
Certain Animals - Camel, Horses, Cattle
Semi processed hides and skins
Silk worms, silk worm seeds and cocoons
Family Planning Devices (NOC from Ministry of Health Required)
Vintage products, replicas of antiques or weapons
Sand and soil
Whole human blood plasma and certain products derived from human blood
Sandal-wood (except handicraft products & oil)

Import and export of some specified goods may be restricted/ prohibited under other laws such as Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, Foreign Trade Policy Environment Protection Act, Wild Life Act, Indian Trade and Merchandise Marks Act, Arms Act, etc. Prohibition under those acts will also apply to the penal provisions of the Customs Act, rendering such goods liable to confiscation under section 111(d) of the Customs Act (for import) and 113 (d) of the Customs Act (for export).

Manual: Import / Export Restrictions / Prohibitions under Customs law

Export of most species of wild life and articles made from flora and fauna such as Ivory, Musk, Reptile skins, Furs, Shahtoosh etc. is prohibited. For any clarifications passenger should approach the Regional Deputy Director (Wildlife Preservation) Govt. of India or the Chief Wildlife Wardens of State Governments posted at Calcutta, Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.

Prohibition on Export of Indian coins :-
No person shall take or send out of India the Indian coins which are covered by the Antique and Art Treasure Act, 1972.

Prohibition on export and import of foreign currency :-
Except as otherwise provided in these regulations, no person shall, without the general or special permission of the Reserve Bank, export or send out of India, or import or bring into India, any foreign currency.

Whenever planning to bring or take any unusual item please enquire about its permissibility for export or import before undertaking the journey. It’s a smart move to do so from both ports, exit and destination so that to ensure that you are inconformity with laws of both countries.

Export and import of currency to or from Nepal and Bhutan :-

Notwithstanding anything contained in these regulations, a person may –

take or send out of India to Nepal or Bhutan, currency notes of Government of India and Reserve Bank of India notes (other than notes of denominations of above Rs.100 in either case) ;
bring into India from Nepal or Bhutan, currency notes of Government of India and Reserve Bank of India notes (other than notes of denominations of above Rs.100 in either case) ;
take out of India to Nepal or Bhutan, or bring into India from Nepal or Bhutan, currency notes being the currency of Nepal or Bhutan.

Frequently Asked Questions Faqs

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:21:00 -0800

India Customs Baggage Rules FAQs

India Customs Faqs Page

I got a High End Camcorder in a very reduced price in a sale & have original bills! What price will be considered while calculating my total carrying into India ?

If you can produce sufficient evidences like invoice, price list at sale etc. the value declared by you will be accepted.

The Indian Customs will have the approximate value of popular Items (make/brands). You can also get a copy of the manufacturers brochure/printed pricelist of the item, from any dealer and that can be shown to Customs

What is the Duty on laptops?

According to the new rules, a person of 18 years of age can get a laptop to India duty free as a part of baggage >> Read Laptop Rules for more Info

With respect to valuation of goods do Customs consider the price before tax or after tax?

Customs Duty is imposed on the actual amount paid abroad for an item, inclusive of any tax.

All tax imposed by authorities abroad are considered if you have paid the tax along with the price. In cases like items purchased from duty free shops abroad, the buyer does not pay the tax or pay lesser tax. So the price considered here include no tax or less tax in those cases. In short, customs duty is imposed on the actual amount paid abroad for an item, inclusive of any tax.

Can free allowances of two or more passengers be added up (pooled or combined) to bring more goods duty free or pay lesser duty ?

Absolutely not!
This is a question frequently asked by passengers travelling with family or by passengers travelling in groups.

Example :
Say, for example, husband and wife are travelling together and each of them get Rs.25000 free allowance.

Suppose, a TV worth Rs.30000 is being brought. The TV can be declared in the name of one passenger only - either the husband or wife but not both. The person who declares the item has to pay duty on Rs.5000, which is the excess value over his/her duty free allowance, although the husband and wife can bring a total of Rs.50000 worth goods free of duty separately.

On the other hand, say, a handycam worth Rs.25000 is declared by the husband and a music system also worth Rs.25000 is declared by the wife. Then both the items can be cleared duty free as these belong to the baggage of different persons. Had the husband declared both the items as his baggage, he would have to pay duty on Rs.25000 - the amount by which his duty free allowance would exceed. So far as free allowance is considered, each passenger is considered to be travelling separately with his/her own baggage and their duty is assessed on an individual basis, not on the basis of a group or a family.

What is Excise Duty?
Is it collected by the State Government or the Central Government in India?
How is it different from Sales Tax?

Excise duty is a tax on manufacture or production of goods. Excise duty on alcohol, alcoholic preparations, and narcotic substances is collected by the State Government and is called "State Excise" duty. The Excise duty on rest of goods is called "Central Excise" duty and is collected in terms of Section 3 of the Central Excise Act, 1944. Sales Tax is different from the Excise duty as former is a tax on the act of sale while the latter is a tax on the act of manufacture or production of goods.

What are the Indian Customs Restictions on Prescription Medicine ?
There is no difficulty in Customs clearance, as long as the medicines are in quantities sufficient for his consumption and as long as he has the necessary prescriptions/ Doctors certificate

Is There any Duty on Computer Software or Software Games ?
Computer software does not attract duty presently and may change

Do used mobile phone handsets also attract customs duty?
Used mobile phone sets also attract duty. However, you can have the benefit of depreciation on the value on which you pay duty in case of old & used items.

Can goods be kept in the temporary custody of Customs?
Yes. Goods can be kept in the safe custody of Customs against a Detention Receipt.

Are there any Special Restiction on Food Items ?
Example :
I have special dietary needs and would like to take some frozen chicken and meat meals for my personal use during my stay.

The Indian Customs will allow you to clear food items etc if they are imported for your own personal use during your stay in India.

Examples of some situations when goods may be kept in the custody of Customs :

Passenger does not have sufficient money to pay duty and/or other dues on the goods at that moment.
Passenger does not have sufficient foreign currency to pay duty on items on which duty is payable in convertible foreign exchange.
Passenger does not want to take the item along with him into India but intends to return with the goods when leaving India.
Passenger disputes the valuation/duty determined by Customs and intends to appeal against the decision to higher authorities.
The goods are prohibited goods and the passenger has declared the items to Customs authorities. However, not all prohibited items can be kept in the safe custody in this manner. Items like Narcotic Drugs, explosives etc. are liable to seizure/confiscation.

How the CIF Value arrived in case of Imports of goods by Air on FOB Basis ?
The duty is always calculated on C.I.F. In case the actual insurance/freight are not available, the Customs Act provides for levy of a notional freight and insurance

If, for any reason the passenger is not able to collect the article at the time of leaving India, the article may be returned to him/her through any other passenger authorised by him/her and leaving India or as cargo consigned in his/her name. Similarly, dutiable goods which passengers desire to clear subsequently, may also be detained temporarily for clearance on payment of duty and/or fine and other dues. Unclaimed packages found in the Baggage Hall and handed over by airlines will similarly be received by the officer in charge of detained baggages for safe custody.

Laptop Rule

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 05:24:00 -0800

Import duty for bringing laptops into India
In General, If you are travelling from USA, Canada, Australia, Europe,.. and aged above 18 years... stayed more then 3 days abroad... carried on the person (carry on baggage) or as accompanied baggage (checked baggage)... you are entilted

Duty Free Allowance and 1 Laptop
Notebook Computer / iPad / Tablet
(Each person above 18 years / one Laptop Duty Free + unlimited used personal effects (excluding jewellery)

Layman's Terms CBEC Circular
If you are 18+ years and has stayed more then 3 days overseas...
then you are allowed 1 Laptop (Notebook) per Passenger

Free of Customs Duty . Duty Free Allowance doesn't apply to the laptop
Desktop, LCD and Other Computer Accessories
are not covered under Laptop Rule

Customs Website:One laptop computer (notebook computer) over and above the said free allowances mentio ned is also allowed duty free if imported by any passenger of the age of 18 years and above

Import as Gift Custom CircularImport of goods upto the value of Rs. 5,000/- is allowed as gift, duty free. This exemption is allowed only for bonafide gifts imported by air or post. For the purpose of calculation of this value of Rs. 5,000/- the air freight or postal charges paid are not added.

What should you do when you leave India?
If you intend taking out with you articles of high value such as a camera, laptop, notebook computer, video camera or jewellery, be sure to ask the Customs Officer, at the time of your departure, for an export certificate for such articles. He will examine the items and certify that they are being taken out of India by you.

Keep this certificate safe with you and when you return to India, show the Certificate to the Customs Officer who will then be able to pass these free of duty.

The advantage of having the Export Certificate is that the concessions you are entitled to, when you return, are not affected.

Please take special care to obtain an Export Certificate in respect of jewellery that you intend to take out to avoid any problem on your return.
Export Certificate
Goods taken out from India by a passenger while going abroad can be imported again into India free of duty provided the passenger had received an export certificate from the Customs in respect of that particular item while going abroad.

FAQs on Laptop / Notebook Imports into IndiaImport cost for a laptop in india

Is it custom free if i import laptop from outside india?
I might get a laptop as a gift from USA, what will be the charge when i receive it india including all charges ? it is a gift will there be any customs duty?

Yes it will be too costly if u need to pay custom duty... ask some one to carry it along as a luggage and show it as personal item

I have 2 laptops >> One I had bought from India. Are Both Duty Free ?

If you are lucky you can walk away without any hassles but recently I had taken my Laptop on my trip; fortunately i had taken a Customs Export Certificate; when I landed at Bombay the customs officer insisted on seeing that certificate or he would have levied customs duty on that. I think it is matter of luck.

Does it make financial sense to buy laptop from USA and send it to India instead of buying one in India itself.?

Laptops are Cheaper In USA
Warrenty may not be covered in India if the device is bought in USA. [ Check the New Ruling by Consumer Court about HP Warranty ]

"Indian Customs Officers are masters in intepreting rules, regulations, circulars, notices etc according to their wills & fancies to harass individuals"

Registering a complaint : vigilance

Import of Gold & Silver

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 04:28:00 -0800

Import of Gold by NRI's

Import of Gold as baggage on payment of duty

How much jewellery can be imported by a passenger?

Any Passenger can take gold to India provided they declare and pay the applicable customs duty in India. Up to 10 Kilograms of gold per passenger can be imported to India provided the period of stay overseas has been more than six months.

An Indian passenger who has been residing abroad for over one year is allowed to bring jewellery, free of duty in his bonafide baggage upto an aggregate value of Rs. 10,000/- (in the case of a male passenger) or Rs.20,000/- (in the case of a lady passenger). This is in addition to his/her usual free allowances. If a passenger who is a Indian passport holder has been working abroad and returning after termination of work following a stay of 365 days abroad during the two previous years, he/she can also bring Gold & Silver in any form other than ornaments (Sl. 17 of Annexure-II) as part of the baggage on paying 15% duty, subject to the upper total value limit of Rs.75,000/- for all listed items.
Passengers of Indian Origin who have stayed abroad for at least 6 months can import raw gold and silver / jewellery in excess of the above mentioned amount on payment of duty at the prescribed rate. However, stone or pearl studded jewellery are not allowed under this scheme.

Import of Silver as baggage on payment of duty

The weight of silver (including ornaments) should not exceed the quantity of 100 kgs. per passenger.

The duty at the rate of Rs.510 per kg. is payable by the passenger in convertible foreign currency.

Import of silver by concealment in baggage coupled with no declaration will lead to confiscation along with imposition of fine/penalty and the offender may also be arrested.

Importing Firearms

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:36:00 -0800

Importing Firearms & Ammunition into India

Import of firearms is strictly prohibited.
Import of Cartridges in excess of 50 is also prohibited.

Transfer of Residence to India However, in the case of persons transferring their residence (as per conditions specified in the rules) to India for a minimum period of one year, one firearm of permissible bore can be allowed to be imported subject to the conditions that:

the same was in possession and use abroad by the passenger for a minimum period of one year and also subject to the condition that such firearm, after clearance, shall not be sold, loaned, transferred or otherwise parted with, for consideration or otherwise, during the lifetime of such person.

AND
the firearms can be allowed in such cases on payment of applicable duty provided the passenger has a valid arms licence from the local authorities

Import of Airgun
Airgun Can be imported via personal baggage route or via post/ courier route

The importer MUST be a current member of a Rifle Club/ Shooting Association
The air guns / air-pistols imported can ONLY be in .177 calibre

More Information about Importing airguns into India

Airgun import experiences - via post/ courier route

Procedure to import guns and ammunation for shooting sports

Paintball guns

Import of Passenger Automobiles to India

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:11:00 -0800

Import of Car to India

Passenger automobilies including Sports Cars, Jeeps, SUV, Multi-Utility Vehicles and Motor Cycles etc. are restricted items of import and can be imported against an import license. However individuals coming to India on Transfer of Residence after two years continuous stay abroad and other importers as specified in Public Notice No. 3(RE/1997-02) of Directorate General of Foreign Trade, New Delhi, may import these vehicles without a license but on payment of customs duty .

The Imported Vehicle should have right hand steering and controls.

Indian nationals coming to India for permanent settlement:

Used household goods and personal effects, which have been owned and used by the shipper for at least 6 months and are not part of other concessions

Transfer of Residence Rules are subject to change from time to time

Check the Latest Duty Structure
IMPORT OF PASSENGER CARS
Import of passenger Cars / Jeep / Multiutility vehicles:

Motor cars, Motor cycles and scooters whether new or old imported into India are chargeable to duty on the basis of their list price prevailing in the country of the their manufacture on the date on which a bill of entry is presented. However, trade discount and depreciation on the value are deductible from the price list but freight from the country of manufacture and insurance charges are added. The landing charges are also added to this to arrive at the final assessable value.

Homologation:
Homologation is the process of certifying that a particular car is roadworthy and the Pune-based Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) provide this clearance. According to existing norms, every original car model brought into the country by an individual or a manufacturer must have homologation clearance. Even domestic car manufacturers need a homologation certificate for new models. There are some exclusions as well

Manufacturers can import left hand drive vehicles only for testing and research purposes.
Individuals importing top-end cars can waive off the testing — or homologation — requirements. Any individual can import a vehicle priced above Rs 20 lakh without sending it for road-worthiness tests.
Import of new vehicles is only permitted through Customs ports at Nhava Sheva, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi Air Cargo and at ICD, Tughlakabad

For Non Residential Indians (NRIs)
Individuals coming to India for permanent settlement after two years of continuous stay abroad can bring in a car provided the vehicle has been in their possession for at least one year abroad. This now ensures that individuals coming to India do not bring in an absolutely new car.

Payment of Custom Duty for Import of cars and vehicles
In case of Indian nationals or foreign nationals of Indian origin returning to India for permanent settlement, custom duty can be paid in rupees derived by sale of foreign exchange or by debit to their NRE/FCNR accounts held in India or out of the funds held in their RFC account. In such cases, the authorized dealers will have to issue a certificate to that effect for submission to the Customs authorities. It will also be in order for the authorized dealers to open and maintain special non-convertible accounts in the name of the above categories of persons with funds derived either by remittances from abroad or by debit to their NRE/FCNR/RFC account in India for the purpose of paying custom duty. The certificates issued by authorized dealers should, however, bear a clear superscription that the same have been issued for submission to the customs authorities for payment of custom duty, after assessment thereof.

India Customs Rules for Transferring Residency to India

noreply@blogger.com (Real Blogger) — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:03:00 -0800

Indian Customs Rules for Residency Transfer

Following rules will apply to the people who are Transferring their Residency to India apart from the usual allowances applicable to Indian residents or foreigners residing in India.

Check the Latest Transfer Rule Updates from cbec.gov.in

I. Articles not allowed free, but at a concessional rate of duty of 30% :

Colour TV/Monochrome TV.
VCR/VCP/Video Television Receiver/VCD Player.
DVD Player
Video Home Theatre System
Washing Machine.
Electrical/Liquefied Petroleum Gas Cooking Range (other than Electrical/Liquefied Petroleum Gal stoves with not more than two burners and without any extra attachment)
Dish Washer.
Music System.
Personal Computer/Desktop Computer.
Air Conditioner.
Refrigerator.
Deep Freezer.
Microwave Oven.
Video Camera or the combination of such video camera with one or more of the following goods, namely:
1. Television Receiver;
2. Sound recording or reproducing apparatus;
3. Video reproducing apparatus.
Word Processing Machine.
Fax machine.
Portable Photocopying Machine

Conditions :

Passenger to affirm by a declaration that the goods (Items 1 to 14 of above) have been in his/her possession abroad or the goods are purchased from the duty-free shop by him/her at the time of his/her arrival but before clearance from Customs.
Unaccompanied goods were shipped or despatched or arrived within the prescribed time limits (within two months before arrival and within after one month of arrival - see rules regarding unaccompanied baggage for details)
Only one unit of each item (Items 1 to 14 of above) per family is allowed and total value of these items should not exceed Rs.1.5 Lakhs.
The person claiming this benefit affirms by declaration that no other member of the family had availed, or would avail this benefit. The term "family" includes all persons in the same house and forming part of the same establishment.
Passenger has not availed this concession in the preceding three years.
Minimum stay of two years abroad, immediately preceding the date of the passenger's arrival on transfer of residence. Shortfall of upto 2 months in stay abroad can be condoned by Assistant Commissioner of Customs if the early return is on account of -
1. Terminal leave or vacation being availed of by the passenger, or
2. Any other special circumstances.
Total stay in India on short visits during the 2 preceding years should not exceed 6 months. Commissioner of Customs may condone short visits in excess of 6 months in deserving cases.

Note 1:Transfer of Residence entitlements are applicable to returning Indians as well as Foreigners transferring their residence to India subject to the fulfillment of prescribed eligibility conditions

Note 2:Earlier there was a clause of minimum stay in India of 1 year after taking TR. This has since been abolished.

Depreciation of value on old and used items

Though there are no specific guidelines in the Baggage Rules for according depreciation benefits to old and used items of baggage for the purpose of their valuation, as a matter of practice, the following depreciation benefits are given on the purchase value of old and used items:

For every quarter during 1st year - 4%
For every quarter during 2nd year - 3%
For every quarter during 3rd year - 2.5%
For every quarter during 4th year & after - 2%

Since there are no specific guidelines, the assessing officer uses his / her judgement and discretion for determining the maximum limit. The depreciation for each year is supposed to be calculated on the reduced value of the previous year and not on the original value. However, for quick calculation and clearance, sometimes the straight line method of calculation of depreciation is followed at the airport, which incidentally is more beneficial for the passenger.

India Baggage Rules

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How much Alcohol can you carry Duty Free to India ?

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Connected Domestic Flights in India

How much gold can you bring to India ??

How much Gold can i legally import into India

How much gold can I carry to India without worrying about duties?

50,000 / 100000 Limit

How much currency can you carry to India?

How much currency can you carry to India?

Indian Customs limit on the amount of cash (Indian and Foreign currency) you can carry in and out of India with you.

Indian Rupee Rules : Currency

Latest Update

Import of INR is prohibited, except for residents of India importing up to INR 7,500

Currency Import regulations:

Foreign currencies :

Unlimited : No Import Limit on Foreign currencies

However, amounts

exceeding USD 5,000. (or equivalent) in cash

or

Local currency (Indian Rupee INR 7,500):

Import of INR is prohibited, except for residents of India importing up to INR 7,500Foreign currencies include

currency notes

traveler's cheques

cheques, drafts

can be exchanged only through banks and authorized money exchange points.

Indian rupee demonetisation is done deal

Currency Export regulations:Foreign currencies : up to the amount imported and declared.

Local currency (Indian Rupee-INR): INR 7,500

Latest Indian Currency Rules

Latest Indian Currency Rules

USD 5,000 & USD 10000

Passengers flying into India have to declare over Rs 10,000

Declare Indian Currency exceeding Rs 10,000

India's 2013/14 budget : Customs Duty

India's 2013/14 budget Updates

Lady Passenger

Male Passenger

Site Map : Indian Government Customs & Baggage Law

Temporary Banned Items by Indian Customs

Is it a good idea to take Game Console to India ??

Taking LCD TV to India : Indian Custom Duty on LCD TV

You have to pay duty on all flat panel televisions

(LCD, LED, Plasma etc).

Isn’t it covered under the Duty Free Allowance?

No, Duty Free Allowance is not applicable to flat panel televisions since 26 August 2013.

Customs Duty is applicable to flat panel televisions of ALL SIZES.

India Custom Duty on Alcoholic Beverages

India Custom Duty on Alcoholic Beverages

India Custom's Tariff

Customs Website

Registering a complaint : vigilance

Prohibited and Restricted Goods

Frequently Asked Questions Faqs

Laptop Rule

Import of Gold & Silver

Import of Gold as baggage on payment of duty

How much jewellery can be imported by a passenger?

Any Passenger can take gold to India provided they declare and pay the applicable customs duty in India. Up to 10 Kilograms of gold per passenger can be imported to India provided the period of stay overseas has been more than six months.

Importing Firearms

Import of Passenger Automobiles to India

India Customs Rules for Transferring Residency to India

Import of INR is prohibited, except for residents of India importing up to INR 7,500

Foreign currencies include