Travelling as a vaper can be tricky. Some countries allow personal use but ban sales, while others have strict, no-tolerance policies. India falls into the latter category—and if you’re planning a trip, you’ll want to read this before packing your vape.

Here’s everything you need to know about vaping, heat-not-burn (HnB) products, and nicotine pouches in India🇮🇳.

Vaping Has Been Fully Banned Since 2019

In 2019, India introduced the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), which bans everything related to electronic nicotine delivery systems —production, sales, import, export, transport, storage, and advertisement.

The law covers all types of electronic cigarettes, including:

✔️  Refillable vapes

✔️  Disposable vapes

✔️  Heat-not-burn (HnB) products

✔️  E-hookahs

You could face fines, imprisonment, or both if you’re caught breaking this law.

This strict ban is also turning away international tourists, particularly from countries like Italy, South Korea, Japan, and the UK, where heated tobacco products are legal. With no harm reduction alternatives available, many travellers are choosing other destinations instead.

In contrast, Thailand has a vape ban but still sees a rise in tourism because vaping products remain available through illicit channels. In India, however, the combination of a ban and strict enforcement is driving away vapers and tourists who consume other safer nicotine alternatives.

Is Personal Possession Illegal?

Technically, PECA doesn’t criminalize possession, but authorities often interpret the law differently. Some health officials have suggested that simply carrying a vape could be penalized.

💡 Play it safe: Use vapes discreetly and know your rights. If questioned, refer to official statements confirming possession isn’t banned:

📌 Ministry of Home Affairs Circular
📌 Health Minister’s Parliament Statement
📌 Health Ministry’s Tweet

Can You Travel with Vapes or HnB Products?

Short answer: No. Bringing vapes or HnB products into India is not allowed. 

Airports may confiscate these items upon arrival, and you could face penalties if caught carrying them.

Are Nicotine Pouches Legal?

Nicotine pouches fall into a legal grey area in India. Unlike vapes, they are not explicitly banned under PECA, and there are no known restrictions on bringing them into the country or possessing them. Travellers have reported no issues carrying nicotine pouches through customs or using them discreetly.

However, since some states ban certain smokeless tobacco products, it’s always a good idea to check local regulations before purchasing or using them in public.

Do People Still Use Vapes Despite the Ban?

Yes. Despite the ban, a black market exists, especially in big cities. Studier show that e-cigarettes are still sold at tobacco shops and through online platforms.

That said, buying vapes illegally comes with risks—from legal trouble to unsafe, unregulated products.

Final Recommendation

India is one of the least consumer-friendly countries for vapers, with strict bans and inconsistent enforcement. The good news? Association of Vapers India (AVI) fights for harm reduction and helps vapers navigate the challenges.

Need advice? Contact AVI via X (@vapeindia) or email: contact@vapeindia.org.