Here’s What You Need to Know About Carrying Gold from Kuwait to India

30/10/2025

Here’s What You Need to Know About Carrying Gold from Kuwait to India

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 30: As international travel picks up, the Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has issued an important reminder for all travelers arriving in or departing from the country: declare cash, gold, jewellery, and other valuables at airports, in line with customs regulations.

Under current rules, anyone carrying cash of KD 3,000 or more — or its equivalent in foreign currency — must complete a customs declaration form through the Financial Investigation Department, whether entering or leaving Kuwait. Similarly, all forms of gold, including bullion, jewellery, and valuable watches, must be declared at departure. Travelers carrying gold bullion will receive an official document from the airport’s Air Cargo Department, while jewellery and watches are documented with a “sighting note” at departure and again upon return, provided receipts are shown.

Authorities stress that these requirements are mandatory but not intended to restrict travel. Rather, they form part of Kuwait’s broader legal framework aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing, ensuring that valuable assets are fully accounted for under the law. Compliance helps travelers avoid delays, penalties, and unnecessary complications while transiting through Kuwait’s international airports.

The reminder comes as gold prices ease from recent highs, and holiday travel draws shoppers to gold markets in the region, particularly Kuwait’s bustling gold souqs. Many Indians, in particular, are keen to know how much gold they can carry back home duty-free.

According to Indian Airport customs rules:

Male passengers returning from abroad can carry up to 20 grams of gold jewellery valued up to ₹50,000 duty-free.
Female passengers may carry up to 40 grams valued up to ₹1,00,000.
Children under 15 can carry up to 40 grams of gold as gifts or ornaments, provided proper documentation is presented.

For travelers who have stayed abroad for more than six months, India allows up to 1 kilogram of gold in baggage, subject to applicable duty. Quantities beyond duty-free jewellery limits are taxed on a sliding scale: around 3% for small excesses, 6% for moderate amounts, and up to 10% for quantities above 100 grams. Gold coins and bars are also included, but invoices and purity certificates must be presented at the Red Channel in Indian airports. Failure to declare dutiable gold can result in confiscation, fines, and legal action under the Customs Act, 1962.

Retailers advise travelers to check rules carefully before traveling, as allowances may vary depending on residential status and duration of stay abroad. “It’s always best to refer to official government sources before traveling, as customs regulations are updated periodically,” one jeweller said.

Whether carrying cash or gold, travelers are urged to stay informed, declare valuables properly, and enjoy a smooth, hassle-free journey.