NRI Gold Investment in Kerala 2026 | Buying, Importing & Investing in Gold

NRI Gold Investment in Kerala 2026 | Buying, Importing & Investing in Gold

Gold is deeply embedded in Kerala’s culture and economy — with Thrissur being India’s gold capital. For NRIs, gold represents both cultural tradition and a sound investment. This guide covers buying gold in Kerala, importing gold from abroad, customs duty rules, and modern gold investment options.

Gold Import Rules for NRIs — 2026

Passenger Duty-Free Allowance Customs Duty (above limit)
Male NRI (stayed 6+ months abroad) 20 grams (max ₹50,000) 15% + 3% cess
Female NRI (stayed 6+ months abroad) 40 grams (max ₹1,00,000) 15% + 3% cess
NRI (stayed less than 6 months) No duty-free allowance 15% + 3% cess on full value

Customs duty rates are subject to change per Union Budget. Verify current rates before travel.

Gold Investment Options for NRIs

1. Physical Gold (Jewellery & Coins)

  • Buy from Kerala’s reputed jewellers — Malabar Gold, Kalyan, Joyalukkas, Jos Alukkas
  • Hallmarked BIS 916 gold recommended
  • Making charges: 8–15% for jewellery (not recoverable on resale)
  • Gold coins and bars: Lower making charges, better for investment

2. Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB)

  • RBI-issued bonds — NRIs cannot buy SGBs (FEMA restriction)
  • SGBs held before becoming NRI can be retained until maturity

3. Gold ETFs & Mutual Funds

  • NRIs can invest in Gold ETFs through NRE/NRO demat account
  • No making charges, no storage risk
  • Tracks gold price — ideal for investment (not jewellery)
  • LTCG: 12.5% after 24 months (post July 2024 budget)

4. Digital Gold

  • Buy gold digitally via apps (MMTC-PAMP, SafeGold, Augmont)
  • NRIs can buy digital gold — stored in secure vaults
  • Can convert to physical gold or sell online
  • No making charges, no storage hassle

Gold Prices in Kerala — 2026 (Indicative)

Type Price (per gram, approx)
22 Karat (916 hallmark) ₹7,200–7,800
24 Karat (999 pure) ₹7,800–8,500

Gold prices change daily. Check live rates at Kerala Jewellers Association or MCX before buying.

Tax on Gold for NRIs

  • LTCG on gold (held 24+ months): 12.5% without indexation (post July 2024)
  • STCG on gold (held less than 24 months): Taxable at slab rate
  • Inherited gold: No tax on inheritance; capital gains apply on sale
  • GST on gold jewellery purchase: 3%

Disclaimer: Gold prices, customs duty, and tax rates are subject to change. This guide is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified financial advisor before investing. Blueberry FM is a financial services facilitator, not a gold dealer or investment advisor. RBI · FEMA · ASCI compliant.