US-bought iPhones Cheaper: India Raises Duty-Free Limit to Rs 75,000

• India's Customs Rules 2026, effective February 2, 2026, increase the duty-free baggage allowance for air/sea travelers to Rs 75,000, up from Rs 50,000.
• This change makes buying iPhones and other gadgets from the US cheaper, as a larger portion of their value now falls within the duty-free threshold.
• One laptop or notebook can now be brought into India completely duty-free, separate from the Rs 75,000 allowance, for travelers aged 18 and above.
• For items exceeding Rs 75,000, the basic customs duty has been reduced from 20% to 10%, plus a 10% social welfare surcharge on the duty.
• Travelers are advised to keep purchase invoices, avoid multiple identical items, and declare goods honestly to ensure a smooth customs process.

Why It Matters: India's increased duty-free limit and reduced customs duty make overseas gadget purchases, especially iPhones, more affordable.