FBR proposes flexible rules for temporary import of tourist vehicles

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has suggested changes to Pakistan’s Customs Rules 2001, which will affect the temporary import of vehicles by tourists.

Under the suggested rules, tourists can import their cars in Pakistan without paying duty for up to three months if they meet certain conditions, as per a FBR notification. One of key conditions is that tourists must declare they will not transfer the vehicle’s ownership while in Pakistan.

If a vehicle is not re-exported after three months, the owner must provide a bank guarantee to the customs authorities. This guarantee allows the customs collector to extend the vehicle’s stay for another three months.

For vehicles re-entering Pakistan, the temporary stay will be limited to 14 days, except for those operated by foreign tour agencies, which may be allowed a second three-month entry within a year.

The FBR has also made allowances for emergencies. If a tourist falls ill or the vehicle is involved in an accident, the stay can be extended to six months, provided the owner submits a new bank guarantee to customs officials. If they fail to provide this guarantee, the vehicle must be handed over to the Customs department.

Instead of this, importers can apply for a permit from the Ministry of Commerce and pay customs duty to extend their stay.

According to ARY News, the FBR has asked for feedback from stakeholders regarding these amendments, which aim to offer flexibility to tourists while maintaining regulatory control.

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