Are you planning to export or import a car to Pakistan in 2025? Whether you are an overseas Pakistani or a vehicle dealer, understanding the latest import policy, customs duties, and documentation process is crucial. This complete guide covers everything you need to know, including the changes effective from September 2025 and July 2026.
Car Import Schemes in Pakistan (2025)
Pakistan allows car imports under different schemes:
1. Personal Import Schemes (for Overseas Pakistanis)
| Scheme Type | Vehicle Age Limit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Baggage Scheme | Cars ≤ 3 years | Must arrive with returning Pakistani within 60 days |
| Gift Scheme | Cars ≤ 3 years | Can gift to a blood relative once in 2 years |
| Transfer of Residence | Cars ≤ 3 years | Stay abroad ≥ 700 days in past 3 years |
- Only right-hand drive (RHD), non-accident vehicles are allowed.
- Disabled persons can import one duty-free car (≤1350 cc) with government approval.
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2. Commercial Import Scheme
| Period | Allowed Vehicle Type | Import Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Until Sept 2025 | Only brand-new vehicles | Commercial license required |
| From Sept 2025 | Used cars ≤ 5 years | Allowed under commercial or personal schemes |
| From July 2026 | Any age allowed | Must meet safety and emission standards |
Customs Duties & Taxes on Imported Cars
Import Duty Structure (2025)
| Engine Capacity | Import Duty | Sales Tax | FED & Others |
|---|---|---|---|
| ≤ 1300 cc | ~50% | 18% | Yes |
| 1301 – 1800 cc | ~65% | 18% | Yes |
| Above 1800 cc | ~75% | 18% | Yes |
- Additional Customs Duty (ACD) and Withholding Tax apply.
- Used vehicles imported after Sept 2025 carry a 40% additional duty, reducing by 10% annually until eliminated in 2029.
Flat Duty for Used Vehicles (Until Sept 2025)
| Engine Size | Fixed Duty (USD) |
|---|---|
| 801 – 1000 cc | $5,500 |
| 1001 – 1300 cc | $11,000 |
| 1301 – 1500 cc | $15,400 |
| Above 1500 cc | Higher slabs |
EV & Hybrid Car Import Incentives
| Vehicle Type | Import Duty | Tax Incentives |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Vehicles | 1% | Low sales tax, charger exempt |
| Hybrid ≤1800 cc | 50% duty waived | Lower taxes |
| Hybrid >1800 cc | 25% duty waived | Moderate tax cuts |
Step-by-Step Car Import Process in Pakistan
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your scheme (baggage/gift/residence or commercial).
- Select Vehicle: Must be right-hand drive, unmodified, and within age limit.
- Prepare Documents Abroad: Passport, NICOP, visa/residence proof, export invoice.
- Arrange Shipping: To Karachi Port or Port Qasim.
- Pre-file Documents: Using PSW or WeBOC (Import Declaration, Bill of Lading, Form-E, etc.).
- Customs Clearance: Duty calculation, vehicle inspection, payment of taxes.
- Vehicle Release: Obtain delivery order and proceed to registration with local RTO/NADRA.
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Upcoming Tariff Reforms (2025–2030)
| Year | Policy Update |
|---|---|
| Sept 2025 | Import of used cars ≤5 years allowed |
| July 2026 | Age limit lifted with compliance regulations |
| 2026–2029 | Additional duty reduced by 10% each fiscal year |
| By 2030 | Complete elimination of used car import duty penalty |
Key Takeaways
- From September 2025, both personal and commercial imports of used vehicles up to 5 years old are allowed.
- A 40% additional duty applies on used car imports until it is phased out by 2029.
- Electric and hybrid vehicles continue to receive tax incentives.
- All vehicle importers must use the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) system for clearance.
- The upcoming National Tariff Policy 2025–30 will reduce taxes gradually to support fair vehicle pricing.
Conclusion
Importing a car to Pakistan in 2025 has become more structured and transparent with the introduction of new policies and digital systems. Whether you’re an overseas Pakistani using personal schemes or a commercial importer, it’s essential to follow the updated vehicle age limits, duty structures, and documentation processes. With significant reforms taking effect from September 2025 and further changes planned for July 2026, vehicle importers can benefit from reduced tariffs and increased flexibility—especially for electric and hybrid vehicles. Always ensure compliance with FBR regulations and use the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) for a smooth and efficient import experience. Stay updated with: Bloom Pakistan
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