Taking Valuables from Saudi Arabia to India Temporarily

A Saudi-based traveller who temporarily brings valuable personal articles into India and plans to take them back may need a Temporary Baggage Import Certificate (Form CBD-IV).

Source: CBIC Guide for International Travellers, February 2026 | ATITHI Portal

This applies to the journey:

Saudi Arabia → India → Saudi Arabia

It is different from an Export Certificate, which covers valuables first taken out of India.

When it may be relevant

The certificate may be useful for valuable personal effects such as:

• Jewellery
• Professional cameras and lenses
• Musical instruments
• Specialised professional equipment
• Other high-value identifiable articles

It is intended for eligible tourists temporarily importing personal effects for use during their stay and re-exporting them afterward.

What to do on arrival in India

Step 1: Declare on arrival

1. Do not use the Green Channel — approach the Red Channel or Customs Help Desk
2. Present the physical articles, passport, and supporting documents (invoices, photos)

Step 2: Request Temporary Baggage Import Certificate

1. Request Form CBD-IV (Temporary Baggage Import Certificate)
2. Customs officer verifies the physical articles
3. Certificate is issued listing the articles with identifying details

Step 3: Keep the certificate safe

• Store the issued certificate safely
• You must present it along with the listed articles when departing India

Note: The ATITHI passenger manual states that an online application must be followed by verification at the Customs Help Desk on arrival. The certificate is not valid without physical verification.

Validity

The certificate is valid until:

• The tourist’s first departure from India; or
• Six months from issuance

Whichever is earlier. The current CBIC guide states that there is no extension beyond six months.

Export Certificate vs Temporary Import Certificate

Simple rule:

• Left India with valuables? → Export Certificate (CBD-III)
• Left Saudi with valuables? → Temporary Import Certificate (CBD-IV)

Quick reference

FAQ

Do I need this for a normal Saudi → India trip without returning to Saudi?
No. If you’re not returning to Saudi Arabia with the same items, this doesn’t apply.

Can I get the certificate without physically showing the items?
No. The CBIC manual is clear — physical verification at the Customs Help Desk is mandatory.

What if I lose the certificate?
You may face difficulties at departure. Keep digital and physical copies.

Is this for gold/jewellery bought in Saudi Arabia?
The certificate is for personal valuables you bring for your stay and will take back when you leave India (CBIC’s guide gives the example of jewellery carried for a wedding or other event). Items you plan to leave in India, such as gold gifts, are not covered: they are duty-free only within your allowances (for an NRI, the ₹75,000 general free allowance, and jewellery up to 40 g for a female passenger or 20 g for others after more than one year abroad), and duty applies beyond that.

Can I apply online only?
You can pre-declare on the ATITHI portal, but physical verification at the airport is mandatory for the certificate to be issued.

Related guides

• ATITHI Export Certificate for Saudi NRIs
• Indian Customs Declaration for Passengers from Saudi Arabia
• Documents & Embassy — Complete Guide

Official sources

1. ATITHI 2.0 official portal
2. CBIC Guide for International Travellers, February 2026
3. ATITHI International Passenger User Manual

Disclaimer: This article provides general information. Eligibility and Customs treatment depend on the passenger and articles involved. Verify current requirements with CBIC or Indian Customs before travelling.