Whether you’re an overseas Pakistani returning home or a foreign national visiting or relocating, it’s essential to understand Pakistan’s baggage rules. Knowing what you can bring—duty-free or otherwise—can save you from customs hassles and unexpected costs.
This comprehensive guide by Nova Packers helps you navigate the latest baggage rules, duty allowances, exemptions, and prohibited items, as per Government of Pakistan guidelines.
✈️ Categories of Baggage
Baggage brought into Pakistan is generally categorized under three schemes:
1. Personal Baggage Scheme
For items brought with you while traveling to Pakistan.
2. Transfer of Residence (TOR)
For returning overseas Pakistanis who are relocating permanently.
3. Gift Scheme
For sending items as a gift to family/friends in Pakistan from abroad.
📦 Duty-Free Allowance – What You Can Bring Without Paying Duty
✅ Allowed for All Passengers:
| Item | Quantity/Limit |
|---|---|
| Used personal clothing | Reasonable quantity |
| Toiletries | For personal use only |
| Gifts/Souvenirs | Worth up to USD 500 (approx.) |
| Cigarettes | 200 sticks |
| Perfume/Eau de toilette | 60 ml / 250 ml |
| Medication (non-narcotic) | Reasonable amount |
⚠️ Electronics, household appliances, and luxury goods are not duty-free under normal baggage rules.
🏠 Transfer of Residence (TOR) – For Returning Overseas Pakistanis
To qualify, you must:
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Be a Pakistani national residing abroad for 2+ years
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Not have stayed in Pakistan for more than 120 days in total during those 2 years
✔️ TOR Benefits:
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Duty-free import of used personal items and household goods
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Items must be used, not brand new
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Only one item per category (e.g. one TV, one washing machine)
❌ Not Included:
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Brand-new electronics
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Duplicate or bulk items
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Commercial quantities
📄 Documents Required Under TOR
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Original Passport
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CNIC or NICOP
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Visa Copy
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Proof of stay abroad (minimum 2 years)
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Employment certificate or residence proof
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Inventory list (in English)
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Packing list
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Original Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
🧾 Custom Duty on Items
Even under TOR, certain items are subject to customs duty, such as:
| Item | Duty & Taxes (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Television (LED/LCD) | 40–50% |
| Refrigerator | 50%+ |
| Microwave Oven | 35% |
| Washing Machine | 30–45% |
| Air Conditioner | 60%+ |
🎯 Nova Packers can provide a free customs duty estimate. Contact us with your item list.
❌ Prohibited Items
Strictly not allowed under any baggage scheme:
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Alcoholic beverages
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Pornographic material
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Narcotics and illegal drugs
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Firearms and weapons
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Israeli-origin goods
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Anti-Islamic or anti-state literature
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Obscene artwork or media
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Animal hides or ivory
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Radioactive or toxic materials
🐕 Import of Pets
Allowed with the following documents:
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Pet Passport
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Vaccination Certificate
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Health Certificate (from origin country)
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Quarantine Certificate (from Government of Pakistan)
Clearance time: 1–2 working days
Mode of transport: Cargo, excess baggage, or accompanied by traveler
🚘 Vehicle Import Rules (Quick Note)
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Pakistani citizens may import 1 vehicle every 2 years
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Vehicles must be under 3 years old
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Eligible under TOR, Gift, or Personal Baggage schemes
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High customs duties apply
See our Vehicle Import Guide → for full details.
📦 Nova Packers Services
Let us make your move to Pakistan seamless. We provide:
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✈️ International packing & shipping
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🛃 Customs clearance & documentation
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📋 TOR and baggage compliance
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🚚 Door-to-door delivery
💬 Need Help Understanding Your Allowances?
Our relocation experts will:
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Review your documents
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List eligible duty-free items
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Estimate your customs duties
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Handle all port/customs formalities for you
📞 Call Nova Packers now or 📧 email us your packing list to get started.
Nova Packers – Trusted by Families, Backed by Experience.
