Travelling from the UAE to India is common for many Indian expatriates. However, before you fly, it is important to know about the latest travel rules. India has introduced new online forms for some passengers and updated customs rules for carrying gold.
Here is a simple guide to help you prepare for your trip.
1. Air Suvidha Is Required Before You Travel
India has restarted the Air Suvidha system with a new online platform called Version 2.0. International passengers must complete a digital health declaration before travelling.
The updated system was introduced as part of India’s public health measures.
What You Need to Do
- Fill in the Self-Declaration Form (SDF) online.
- Complete the form within 24 hours before your arrival in India.
- Download the confirmation after submitting it.
- Keep the digital copy on your phone and show it if airport officials ask for it.
There is usually no need to fill in paper health forms after landing.
2. OCI Cardholders Can Use a Digital OCI Card
India now allows Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders to use a digital version of their OCI card.
The e-OCI card can be saved on your smartphone and shown during immigration checks.
Benefits
- Faster airport processing
- Easy access on your phone
- Less paperwork while travelling
The printed OCI booklet is still valid and can continue to be used.
3. Foreign Travellers Must Fill an Online Arrival Form
India has replaced the old paper arrival card with an online e-Arrival Card.
Who Needs It?
The online form is for:
- Foreign tourists
- Business visitors
- OCI cardholders
- Other foreign nationals travelling to India
The form should be submitted within 72 hours before arrival.
Indian passport holders normally do not need this form.
4. New Gold Rules for Travellers from the UAE
Many people buy gold in the UAE because prices are often lower than in India. India has now changed its baggage rules for eligible travellers carrying gold jewellery.
The biggest change is that the old value limits have been removed. Only the weight limit now matters.
Duty-Free Gold Jewellery Limits
| Traveller | Maximum Duty-Free Jewellery |
|---|---|
| Women | 40 grams |
| Men | 20 grams |
If your jewellery is within these weight limits, the current market value is no longer considered for eligible travellers.
Who Can Get This Benefit?
The duty-free jewellery allowance generally applies to:
- Indian citizens or people of Indian origin
- Travellers who have lived outside India for more than one year
- Passengers arriving by air or other approved transport (not by land)
People returning after a short stay abroad may not qualify for this benefit.
Carrying More Gold?
If you are carrying more than the allowed limit:
- Declare it at the Customs Red Channel.
- Keep your purchase bills.
- Pay the required customs duty.
Not declaring extra gold may lead to fines or other action by customs officials.
Quick Checklist Before Your Flight
- Complete the Air Suvidha form if required.
- Download your e-OCI card if you have OCI status.
- Fill in the e-Arrival Card if you are a foreign national.
- Check the weight of your gold jewellery.
- Carry purchase receipts for valuable jewellery.
- Declare any gold above the duty-free limit.
Final Words
A little preparation before your journey can save time after you land in India. Complete the required online forms, check the latest customs rules, and keep your travel documents ready.
Disclaimer: Travel, immigration and customs rules can change at any time. Always check the latest updates from the Indian government, your airline and the relevant authorities before your journey.We are Using AI to Edit Articles
