Bringing expensive phones from abroad: Here's how much customs duty you have to pay

Kochi: A recent incident in which Customs officials asked an air passenger arriving with a new iPhone to pay customs duty, prompting him to stage a sit-in protest, triggered a controversy. Against this backdrop, the Airport Customs Department has clarified the rules on carrying mobile phones and other electronic gadgets from abroad.

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions:

How many phones can a passenger bring from abroad without paying customs duty?
Passengers can bring goods, including mobile phones, worth up to ₹75,000 without paying customs duty. This exemption is in addition to the separate duty concessions available for items such as gold, liquor and laptops.

What if the phone costs more than ₹75,000?
There is no issue if the phone is meant for the passenger's personal use and is already in use.

Can passengers bring more than one phone if they are already in use?
Yes, multiple phones are generally allowed. However, passengers must establish that all the phones are part of their regular daily use.

Is it mandatory for the phone to have a SIM card?
The baggage rules do not specifically mention mobile phones. However, an exemption will be granted only if the passenger can credibly establish that the device is regularly used and intended for personal purposes.

What should passengers do if they are carrying a phone or other goods worth more than ₹75,000? How much duty will they have to pay?
Passengers carrying goods liable for customs duty should download the 'Atithi' app and enter the relevant details. They must also submit a declaration at the Customs counter.
A customs duty of 35 per cent will be levied on the value exceeding ₹75,000.

If a passenger carries only a phone worth more than ₹75,000, will duty be charged on its entire value?
No. The 35 per cent duty applies only to the amount exceeding the ₹75,000 exemption limit. For instance, if the phone costs ₹1 lakh, customs duty will be payable only on the remaining ₹25,000.

What happens if passengers bring phones without paying the applicable customs duty?
It will be treated as smuggling and legal action will be initiated. Customs officials may seize the phone and issue a notice asking the passenger to pay the 35 per cent duty along with a penalty.

Are there any special rules for bringing iPhones into India?
No. There are no special customs rules specifically for iPhones.