FBR has introduced a draft amendment to Pakistan’s Customs Rules 2001, proposing significant changes to the regulations for the temporary import of vehicles by tourists.
As per the new amendment, tourists can now bring their vehicles into Pakistan duty-free for up to three months, subject to certain conditions. This change aims to make it easier for tourists to travel within the country using their own vehicles. However, tourists must submit a declaration ensuring that they will not transfer the vehicle’s ownership while in Pakistan.
If a vehicle is not re-exported after the initial three-month period, the owner must provide an advance bank guarantee to customs authorities. This guarantee will allow the customs collector to extend the vehicle’s stay by another three months.
Vehicles re-entering Pakistan will be permitted a temporary stay of 14 days. An exception is made for vehicles operated by foreign tour agencies, which can receive a second three-month entry within a year.
In unforeseen circumstances such as the importer’s illness or a vehicle accident, the vehicle may stay in the country for up to six months, provided a fresh bank guarantee is furnished to the customs collector. Failure to provide the bank guarantee will result in the tourist being required to surrender the vehicle to the Customs department.
Tourists also have the option to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Commerce, allowing an extended stay by paying the applicable customs duty.
The FBR is seeking feedback and recommendations from stakeholders on these proposed amendments. These changes are intended to offer greater flexibility for tourists while maintaining regulatory control.
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