Gold Import Rules 2025: Dubai has long been a favorite destination for Indians to buy gold due to its purity, craftsmanship, and lower prices. However, if you’re planning to bring gold back to India, it’s crucial to understand the customs rules, duty limits, and documentation requirements set by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). Carrying gold without proper compliance can lead to hefty fines or even confiscation.
Let’s break down exactly how much gold you can carry from Dubai to India without paying customs duty — for men, women, and children — along with the required documents and duty rates.
Documents Required to Bring Gold from Dubai to India
When carrying gold from Dubai, travelers must have:
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Purchase invoice of the gold (mentioning purity, price, and seller details).
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Purity and quality certificate from a recognized jeweler.
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Proper inscriptions on gold bars, including weight, serial number, and hallmark.
Providing incorrect or incomplete information can result in penalties or seizure by customs authorities.
Customs Duty Rates for Gold Imports
As per the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), Indian passport holders and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) who have stayed abroad for more than six months are eligible for concessional duty on gold imports.
The current rate of duty is:
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12.5% customs duty + 1.25% social welfare surcharge = 13.75% total on gold imports.
Gold Coins Import Duty
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If total gold coin weight is below 20 grams, no customs duty is charged.
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For 20–100 grams, a 10% duty applies to the total value.
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If coins exceed 100 grams, the same 10% duty is levied, calculated on total weight and value.
Gold Import Rules for Children
Even minors are subject to customs duty if they carry gold:
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Up to 40 grams: No duty (allowed for children under 15 years).
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40–100 grams: 3% customs duty.
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100–200 grams: 6% customs duty.
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Above 200 grams: 10% customs duty.
Children must also present proof of identity and relationship with accompanying adults when carrying gold items or gifts.
Gold Import Rules for Women Travelers
Women travelers enjoy higher duty-free limits compared to men:
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Up to 40 grams (worth up to ₹1 lakh): No duty.
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40–100 grams: 3% customs duty.
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100–200 grams: 6% customs duty.
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Above 200 grams: 10% customs duty.
Gold may be carried in the form of bars, coins, or jewelry, but exceeding these limits invites customs charges.
Gold Import Rules for Men Travelers
For men, the permissible gold limit is lower:
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Up to 20 grams (worth up to ₹50,000): No duty.
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20–50 grams: 3% customs duty.
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50–100 grams: 6% customs duty.
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Above 100 grams: 10% customs duty.
All gold items, including coins, bars, and ornaments, must comply with these weight and value limits.
Why Indians Prefer Buying Gold in Dubai
Dubai is famous for offering tax-free gold, better purity (24K and 22K), and competitive prices compared to India. During festive occasions like Dhanteras and Diwali, gold demand in India soars by 35–40%, leading many to buy it abroad at cheaper rates.
However, while gold in Dubai may be affordable, travelers must stay aware of the import restrictions and duty limits when bringing it to India.
Bringing gold from Dubai to India can be rewarding if done within legal limits. Always ensure:
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You declare your gold honestly at customs.
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You carry all valid purchase documents.
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You stay within duty-free limits based on gender and age.
By following these rules, you can enjoy your Dubai gold purchases without penalties or legal issues upon arrival in India.
