In today’s technology-oriented world one cannot move without their gizmos. But what if you want to take them overseas from the USA to India? No doubt that electronic devices make our lives easier. From surfing the net to connecting with people and getting work done from remote locations, the uses are innumerable. Let’s find out how you can bring along your gadgets on international flights from USA to India.
Gadgets Rules and Regulations at the Airports
There are certain things that a passenger can and can not do while waiting to board their flights and after landing on their location. Firstly, passengers can operate their gadgets like mobile phones or laptops inside an airport complex. They are also provided with charger ports and free Wi-Fi for them to work efficiently.
After arriving at the Migration and Customs, electronic items must not be used. Also, expel laptops separately from luggage for quick security checks. All travelers are under the jurisdiction of Traditions and Security officers who are there to maintain proper protocol.
In-flight Rules for Using Electronic Devices
While frequent flyers are knowledgeable about the in-flight rules some can be unaware of them. Tripbeam says to not worry as we will share the important information with you about gadget rules of flights from USA to India.
Firstly, turn mobile phones off after boarding and during takeoff no phones should be operated(even in airplane mode). Other gadgets that use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, mobile network, etc. are also supposed to turn off. This is so that signals do not interfere with the airplane’s signals. If you get permission from the cabin crew to use light devices like a mobile phone, MacBook, iPod, tablets, or others; make sure that they do not interfere with ATCs (Air Traffic Controllers). The use is restricted for the safety concerns of all passengers and crew onboard the plane. The airline will also be making announcements regarding the same at regular intervals so be vigilant in following the instructions.
Number of Devices, Duty-Free Limit, and Gadget Import Limit
The number of devices that you can bring with you can vary from person to person as someone might bring one each like a mobile phone, laptop, and others while some bring many with them. As long as you are paying your taxes, tariffs, duty charges, and are a legitimate traveler then you do not need to worry about the customary checks. One can bring two laptops to India and for more laptops, they have to pay customs duty. There are some exemptions like if the laptop is a used one and you can prove that with its original receipt. It’s no doubt that people are looking for ways of bringing more electronic gadgets as gifts for their loved ones.
If you are bringing a limited amount of devices with you and are under the duty-free limit then you can steer your way clear from the customs and duty officers. The duty-free limit is 60,000 Indian Rupee.
If you are importing the gadgets for someone else then the consignee cannot import more than two electronic items and the limit of one consignment is under $1500.
Declaration Forms, Documents, and Benefits of TOR
All the items that you are carrying with you need a declaration form that will be provided to the customs. You have to mention all the required information like market price, features, description, and reason for bringing it with you. Providing false information can lead to the item being confiscated or penalties can be imposed on the passenger depending on the situation’s severity. So always be mindful of what you write in your declaration forms.
Support your declaration forms with various other documents like invoices or payment proof of the item that must be shown when asked by customs. Keep your NOCs ready if you are bringing a restricted item to India. The restricted items are shared at the end of the article. If you are transferring residence then proof of your stay in the USA and an Indian Passport are the required documents.
Whenever an Indian resident comes back to the country from abroad they can make use of the TOR benefits. The benefits are depending upon your duration of stay, with the minimum limit being three months. One of the benefits is being able to bring electronics to the nation duty-free. You can bring a Laptop, Personal Computer, Air Conditioner, Video Cassette player, Microwave Oven, Music System, Electrical Cooking Range, and some other items. The limit of duty-free items is Rs. 60,000 if your stay is from 3-6 months, Rs. 1,00,000 for a duration of 6 months to one year, Rs. 2,00,000 if your stay duration is more than one year, and can go up to Rs. 5,00,000 if your stay in India will be longer than 2 years.
Prohibited Items
You can check the list of restricted items on the airline’s website when you are booking your flight tickets to India from USA on Tripbeam. Some of the restricted items are shared below. If you are bringing these items then properly pack them and complete your documents of their purchase, features, NOCs from concerned authorities, and such.
- Desktop Computers
- Diesel Generating Sets
- Air Conditioners
- Refurbished Computers
- Laptop Spare Parts
- Electronics for Commercial Purposes
- Radio Transmitters
- Aero Models (e.g. Toy Helicopters)
- Radio Controllers with high bandwidth
- Power Banks and Batteries with Lithium-ion
These items are restricted as they interfere with the communication network of security agencies. Also, assess the custom fee in advance when you are completing your documentation of electronic items.
