What changed
Previously, non-residents could not carry Indian currency beyond immigration/customs. Now, they can carry up to ₹10,000 to duty-free/security hold areas for incidental expenses, provided they dispose of it before boarding. Forex counters in these areas can now buy INR from non-residents and sell foreign currency, but cannot sell INR.
What it means for you
Banks and authorized persons can set up forex counters in departure hall security hold areas to serve non-residents, offering a new revenue stream. This simplifies currency conversion for travelers and reduces unspent INR leakage. Airport authorities must display reminders that this is the last point for non-residents to hold INR.
What you must do
- Review and update your forex counter setup plans for international airport departure halls to include duty-free/security hold areas.
- Ensure counters only buy INR from non-residents and sell foreign currency; do not sell INR to non-residents.
- Coordinate with airport authorities to display clear signage reminding non-residents that they cannot carry INR beyond security hold areas.
- Train staff on the ₹10,000 limit for non-residents carrying INR beyond immigration and the disposal requirement before boarding.
Who it affects
Authorized Persons (banks, forex dealers) operating at international airports, Non-resident travelers departing from Indian international airports, Airport authorities managing departure halls
Can non-residents carry more than ₹10,000 beyond immigration?
No, the circular sets a maximum of ₹10,000 for carrying Indian currency beyond immigration/customs to the duty-free/security hold area. Any excess must be disposed of before that point.
What can forex counters in the security hold area do?
They can only buy Indian rupees from non-residents and sell foreign currency to them. They cannot sell Indian rupees to non-residents in that area.
Who is responsible for reminding passengers about INR limits?
Airport authorities must put up suitable displays at these counters reminding passengers that the area is the last point for non-residents to possess Indian rupees.