In 2024, Pakistan has taken significant strides in facilitating the process of importing cars for overseas Pakistanis through the implementation of the Import Policy Order 2022.
This initiative aims to streamline the importation process, making it smoother and more accessible for eligible individuals looking to bring vehicles into the country.
Here, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the process of importing cars into Pakistan under personal baggage, covering eligibility criteria, types of imports, conditions of import, and other essential aspects.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the importation or gifting of a car, individuals must adhere to specific conditions outlined by the Import Policy Order 2022. While Pakistan Nationals are generally eligible, certain exceptions apply. For instance, students receiving remittances from Pakistan, non-earning family members of Pakistani nationals, and individuals who have imported, gifted, or received a vehicle within the last two years are ineligible.
Types of Imports:
Cars can be imported into Pakistan under three primary categories: personal baggage, Transfer of Residence, or as a gift. Each category has its own set of conditions and requirements, and individuals must choose the most appropriate option based on their circumstances.
Conditions of Import:
Age Restrictions:
Vehicles older than five years are prohibited from being imported under gift, personal baggage, and Transfer of Residence schemes.
However, secondhand or used bulletproof vehicles are exceptions to this rule.
Cars exceeding three years in age are also not eligible for importation under these schemes.
Minimum Stay Requirements:
For personal baggage imports, individuals must have a minimum stay of 180 days within the last seven months preceding the application.
Gifting a car or importing under Transfer of Residence requires a minimum stay of at least 700 days during the past three years.
Recipient Eligibility:
Cars can only be gifted to a family member who is normally resident in Pakistan.
Payment of Duties and Taxes:
Duty and taxes for all cars, whether new or used, must be paid using foreign exchange arranged by Pakistan Nationals themselves or a local recipient, supported by a bank encashment certificate.
The remittance for duties and taxes must originate from the account of the Pakistani national sending the car from abroad.
In case of currency depreciation or changes in import duties or taxes before the filing of the goods declaration, the importer can cover the shortfall through local sources.
Motorcycles and Scooters:
Motorcycles or scooters can also be imported under Transfer of Residence, subject to the same conditions applicable to other vehicles.
Specialized Vehicles:
Agricultural tractors, bulldozers, laser land levelers, and combined harvesters are allowed under gift, baggage, and Transfer of Residence schemes with conditions similar to those for the import of standard cars.
Import under the gift scheme for specialized vehicles is limited to once a year.
Legal Heir Consideration:
In the unfortunate event of the death of an overseas Pakistani who imported a car under the Transfer of Residence scheme, the car shall be released to the legal heir(s).
By following these detailed guidelines provided by the Import Policy Order 2022, the process of importing cars into Pakistan under personal baggage becomes more accessible for eligible overseas Pakistanis. It is imperative for individuals to carefully adhere to the specified conditions and requirements to ensure a smooth and compliant importation process.
Furthermore, it’s essential to understand the broader implications and benefits of importing cars into Pakistan. Importing cars not only provides individuals with access to a wider range of vehicle options but also contributes to the country’s economy by stimulating demand for automotive products and services. Additionally, importing cars can facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise, leading to advancements in the automotive sector.
Importing cars into Pakistan in 2024 involves navigating a set of regulations and requirements outlined by the Import Policy Order 2022. By understanding the eligibility criteria, types of imports, conditions of import, and broader implications, individuals can effectively navigate the importation process while contributing to the country’s economy and environmental sustainability efforts.
