The FBR has proposed new regulations for vehicle imports.

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) released a proposed amendment to Pakistan’s Customs Rules 2001, implementing substantial modifications to the temporary import regulations for automobiles imported by tourists.

The modification permits tourists to retain their automobiles in Pakistan duty-free for a duration of three months, contingent upon the fulfillment of certain conditions, according to a notification issued by the FBR.

The FBR’s announcement stipulates that visitors intending to import their automobiles into Pakistan must provide a declaration confirming that they will not transfer ownership of the vehicle during their stay in the country.

If the car is not re-exported after three months, the owner must furnish a bank guarantee to the customs officials in advance. The customs collector can prolong the vehicle’s stay by three months upon receipt of the assurance.

Vehicles re-entering Pakistan will be granted a restricted temporary stay of 14 days, except for those operated by foreign tour organizations, which may receive a second three-month admission within a year.

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The FBR has implemented provisions for unanticipated circumstances. In the event of an importer’s illness or the vehicle’s involvement in an accident, the car may remain in the country for a duration of up to six months. The visitor must provide a new bank guarantee to the Customs collector.

Failure to furnish the requisite bank guarantee will compel the visitor to relinquish the vehicle to the Customs department. Furthermore, importers may acquire a permission from the Ministry of Commerce by remitting the requisite customs duty for a longer duration.

The FBR has solicited ideas and opinions from stakeholders regarding the proposed revisions, intended to offer flexibility for visitors while maintaining adequate regulatory monitoring.