Whether youโre an overseas Pakistani returning home or a foreign national relocating to Pakistan, importing your personal vehicle can be a smart moveโbut only if you understand the rules, documentation, and costs involved.
This guide by Nova Packers explains everything you need to know about vehicle import regulations, duties, exemptions, and step-by-step processes.
โ Who Can Import a Vehicle?
1. Pakistani Nationals (Overseas Pakistanis)
Eligible under the following schemes:
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Transfer of Residence Scheme (TOR)
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Gift Scheme
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Personal Baggage Scheme
Note: Only one vehicle can be imported every two years per eligible individual.
2. Foreign Nationals
May import vehicles if working in Pakistan with a valid employment contract (minimum 2 years).
3. Diplomats & Embassy Personnel
Allowed to import vehicles duty-free under diplomatic privileges.
๐ Required Documents for Vehicle Import
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Valid passport copy
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CNIC or NICOP (Pakistani nationals)
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Original Bill of Lading (OBL) or Air Waybill (AWB)
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Invoice showing vehicle details (engine number, make, model, horsepower, etc.)
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Vehicle Registration or Title Certificate
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De-registration Certificate from the country of origin
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Employment letter (for TOR eligibility)
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Proof of stay abroad (2 years) and re-entry into Pakistan
๐ Vehicle Age Limit
Vehicle Type | Age Limit (from date of manufacture) |
---|---|
Cars (Petrol/Diesel) | 3 years |
4×4 Vehicles | 5 years |
Electric Vehicles (EV) | 3 years (under special policy) |
Diplomats | Can import older vehicles |
โ ๏ธ Vehicles exceeding the age limit are not allowed, even with penalties.
๐ธ Customs Duties & Taxes
Vehicle duties in Pakistan are high and calculated on CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
Duties vary by engine capacity, fuel type, and origin. Here’s an overview:
๐งฎ Estimated Customs Duty (for reference only)
Engine Capacity | Duty + Taxes (%) |
---|---|
Up to 800cc | ~50% |
801cc โ 1000cc | ~60โ70% |
1001cc โ 1300cc | ~80โ100% |
1301cc โ 1500cc | ~100โ110% |
1501cc โ 1800cc | ~110โ120% |
1800cc+ | 130โ200%+ |
๐จ Electric Vehicles have reduced duties under the Auto Industry Development Policy (AIDP 2021โ26).
๐ง Special Notes on Vehicle Import
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Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles are allowed.
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Commercial Vehicles (trucks, buses, etc.) must meet Pakistan’s emission and import standards.
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Depreciation allowance is considered for used vehicles (1% per month, up to 60%).
โ๏ธ Shipping & Clearance
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Port of Entry: Karachi Port, Port Qasim (main ports for vehicle imports)
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Customs Clearance Time: Approx. 7โ10 working days
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Consigneeโs Presence: Required during customs inspection
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Nova Packers Services: We manage clearance, valuation, and delivery to your city.
๐ก๏ธ Import Restrictions & Prohibited Vehicles
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Vehicles older than allowed age limit
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Left-hand drive vehicles (except for specific exemptions)
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Damaged, salvaged, or non-roadworthy vehicles
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Cars previously registered in Pakistan
๐งพ Nova Packers Can Help You With:
โ
Document preparation
โ
CIF valuation and customs duty estimation
โ
Customs clearance and port handling
โ
Door-to-door vehicle delivery in Pakistan
โ
Legal compliance and TOR/Gift Scheme guidance
๐ฌ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I import a vehicle under my family memberโs name?
A: Only if they meet eligibility criteria and have stayed abroad for 2+ years.
Q: How is CIF value calculated?
A: CIF = Cost of Vehicle + Insurance + Freight charges (as declared or assessed by Customs).
Q: Can I import a vehicle duty-free?
A: Only diplomats and some government employees are eligible for full exemptions.
๐ Need a Vehicle Import Estimate?
Let Nova Packers calculate your exact duties, help you choose the right scheme (TOR, Gift, Personal), and guide you every step of the way.
๐ฏ Free Consultation | Customs & Shipping Experts
๐ง Email: info@novapackers.com
๐ฑ Call: +92-XXX-XXXXXXX
Nova Packers โ Your Trusted Partner for International Moves, Customs Clearance, and Logistics in Pakistan.