During Diwali and Dhanteras, many people in India rush to buy gold and silver, with sales going up by 35 to 40 percent. Even though gold prices dropped a bit after Diwali, the demand for gold remains strong. One popular way to get gold at a cheaper price is by buying it from Dubai, which is known for its affordable and pure gold. But if you’re planning to bring gold from Dubai to India, it’s important to know the rules and limits set by Indian customs.
How Much Gold Can You Bring From Dubai Without Paying Customs Duty?
India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs has clear rules about how much gold travelers can bring into the country without paying customs duty. These limits vary for men, women, and children.
Gold Limit for Men
Men traveling from Dubai to India can bring up to 20 grams of gold (worth up to ₹50,000) without paying customs duty. This gold can be in the form of coins, bars, or jewelry. If a man carries more than 20 grams, customs duty will apply on the extra amount. The customs duty rates for men are:
3% duty on gold weighing between 20 to 50 grams
6% duty on gold weighing between 50 to 100 grams
10% duty on gold weighing more than 100 grams
Gold Limit for Women
Women can bring a larger amount of gold duty-free. The limit for women is 40 grams of gold (worth up to ₹1 lakh). Like men, this gold can be coins, bars, or jewelry. If a woman carries more than 40 grams, customs duty applies as follows:
3% duty for 40 to 100 grams
6% duty for 100 to 200 grams
10% duty for more than 200 grams
Gold Limit for Children
Children under the age of 15 are also allowed to bring gold duty-free, but their limit is 40 grams. The gold can be gifts or ornaments. However, the child must provide ID proof showing their relation to the accompanying adult. Customs duty for children is similar to adults if the gold exceeds the free limit:
3% duty for 40 to 100 grams
6% duty for 100 to 200 grams
10% duty for more than 200 grams
Important Notes on Gold Coins
Gold coins are treated a bit differently. If the total weight of gold coins brought from Dubai is less than 20 grams, no customs duty is charged. However, if the coins weigh between 20 and 100 grams, a 10% customs duty applies.
Documents You Need to Carry
When bringing gold from Dubai to India, it’s important to carry:
The purchase invoice or bill of the gold
Purity and quality certificates
Details like weight and serial number on gold bars
Failing to provide correct documents may result in fines or even confiscation of the gold.
How to Declare Gold at the Airport
If you bring gold beyond the duty-free limits, you must declare it at the airport. Use the red channel to declare dutiable gold and pay the required customs duty. Not declaring excess gold or providing false information can lead to penalties or seizure of the gold.
Why Follow These Rules?
Many Indian travelers prefer buying gold from Dubai because it’s cheaper and pure. But it’s very important to follow customs rules to avoid legal trouble. By keeping within the allowed limits and declaring the gold properly, you can enjoy buying affordable gold without any hassle.
Summary
Men can bring 20 grams of gold duty-free; women 40 grams; children under 15 years old 40 grams.
Customs duty ranges from 3% to 10% depending on how much gold you carry beyond the free limit.
Always carry proper bills and certificates for your gold.
Declare excess gold at the airport’s red channel to avoid fines or confiscation.
By following these simple steps, you can make the most of the Diwali gold rally and bring home gold from Dubai safely and legally.
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