INDIA 

PROHIBITED AND RESTRICTED GOODS

Firearms, ammunition and weapons unless licensed in advance.  Obscene literature, photographs or films.  Politically undesirable literature and Narcotics.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS

PERSONAL ENTRY 

Foreign Nationals

Business visas (which have to be supported by a sponsoring corporation) are valid for four months stay that can be extended for up to six months. Beyond that, requires a minimum one year work permit (again supported by the sponsoring corporation), and applicants should allow a minimum of three months for the process. A valid work permit is essential prior to the arrival of household goods. Foreign nationals must possess a visa valid for one year from date of last entry, to avail of duty concessions under transfer of residence.

Indian Nationals

Owner should have resided out of India for a minimum period of two years preceding his transfer to India and intends to reside in India for a period of at least one year. Short visits to India in the preceding two years are promoted provided the total duration of stay in India does not exceed six months.

HOUSEHOLD GOODS

The owner must be physically in India before customs clearance can take place. Air shipments must be shipped within 15 days and surface shipments must be shipped within one month of owner's arrival in India. 
All shipments are subject to customs examination and customs duties will be assessed, based on the Customs evaluation.

In general terms under Transfer of Residence, a TV, VCR, washing machine, cooking range, dish washer, music system, personal computer, air conditioner, refrigerator, deep freezer, microwave oven, video camera, word processing machine and telefax machine may be imported at a duty of 35% of assessed value providing :

1. That the combined value of these items must not exceed Rs. 150,000 (approx. US$ 4250 at 1997 exchange rates).
2. There must only be one of each such item in the shipment.

Duplicate items or any sums in excess of Rs. 150,000 attracts 61% duty.
Other household goods, provided they have been in the owner's possession and use for one year, will be allowed free entry.

Documentation 

• Owner's Passport - Owner must be present in India at the time of customs clearance.
• List of articles with values and date of purchase.
• Customs Declaration Form signed by owner.
• Original Ocean Bill of lading.
• Diplomatic consignment - Duty free exemption certificate issued by Diplomatic Mission in India. 

Important: This information is intended for general guidance and all T.I.M.N. members are entitled to reproduce this information and any contributions are welcomed.  T.I.M.N. cannot however take responsibility for any errors or omissions or for any loss or damage that may occur from its use.  As such it is advisable to contact the nearest customs office for India for full and current information prior to importation.