Baggage Rules – Passenger Facilitation Guide
This guide is designed to help passengers entering and departing Pakistan understand their rights and obligations under the applicable Pakistan Customs rules, regulations, and procedures. It provides basic information to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience at customs. For detailed information, please contact the nearest Customs Office or the FBR Help Line Center.
Note: Words and phrases marked in italic bold are explained at the beginning of this brochure. This guide reflects the legal position at the time of printing. In case of any conflict, the legal provisions of the law shall always prevail over the contents of this brochure.
Key Definitions
- Baggage: Personal belongings, including clothing, jewelry, and other items, carried by a passenger during travel.
- Duty-Free Allowance: The value or quantity of goods that can be imported without paying customs duties or taxes.
- Prohibited Items: Goods that are strictly forbidden from being imported or exported.
- Restricted Items: Goods that require special permission or documentation for import or export.
Baggage Rules for Passengers
1. Duty-Free Allowance
Passengers are allowed to bring the following items duty-free:
a) Personal Effects:
- Used clothing, jewelry, and personal items are generally allowed duty-free.
- New items may be subject to duties and taxes if they exceed the duty-free allowance.
b) Gifts and Souvenirs:
- Reasonable quantities of gifts and souvenirs are allowed duty-free.
c) Specific Limits:
- Cigarettes: 200 sticks
- Cigars: 50 sticks
- Tobacco: ½ kg
- Eau de Toilette: ¼ liter
- Perfume: ⅛ liter
2. Restricted Items
The following items are restricted and require special permission or documentation:
- Medicines: Prescription drugs must be accompanied by a doctor’s prescription.
- Currency: Declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding US$10,000 (or equivalent).
- Plants and Animals: Requires a quarantine certificate or permit from relevant authorities.
3. Prohibited Items
The following items are strictly prohibited:
- Weapons of any kind
- Alcohol
- Pornographic material
- Narcotics and illegal drugs
- Toxic and radioactive materials
- Literature, CDs, or DVDs against Islam or Pakistan
- Art, paintings, or objects that are obscene or show nudity
- Hides or ivory of animals
- Goods of Israeli origin
Import of Used Motor Vehicles
Overseas Pakistanis can import used motor vehicles under specific schemes. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility:
- Personal Baggage Scheme:
- Requires a minimum stay of 180 days abroad in the past 7 months before the date of application.
- Transfer of Residence Scheme:
- Requires the applicant to have stayed abroad for at least 700 days in the preceding 3 years.
- Gift Scheme:
- A vehicle can be gifted to family members (parents, siblings, spouse, or children above 18 years old).
- The applicant must have stayed abroad for at least 700 days in the preceding 3 years.
Key Rules:
- Vehicles older than 5 years are not allowed for import (except bulletproof vehicles).
- Cars older than 3 years are not allowed for import.
- Age Calculation: The age of the vehicle is determined from 1st January of the year subsequent to the year of manufacture until the date of shipment (as per the bill of lading).
- Example: A vehicle manufactured in 2018 and shipped on 30th September 2020 will be considered 1 year and 9 months old.
Documents Required:
- Copy of passport
- Original or express bill of lading (OBL) / air waybill (AWB)
- Original technical passport / certificate of title
- De-registration certificate
- Invoice of purchase showing engine number, model, and horsepower
Duties and Taxes:
- Duties and taxes must be paid in full by the importer using their personal accounts.
- A PRC (Payment Receipt Certificate) must be provided to the Customs Department.
Bringing Mobile Phones
Passengers can bring mobile phones into Pakistan, but there are specific rules and limits to follow:
Rules for Bringing Mobile Phones:
- Duty-Free Allowance:
- Passengers can bring up to 5 mobile phones duty-free.
- Exceeding the Limit:
- If you bring more than 5 mobile phones, customs duties and taxes will apply.
- Used vs. New Phones:
- Used phones may be subject to additional scrutiny and depreciation.
Documents Required:
- Original passport
- Proof of purchase (invoice) for the mobile phones
- Declaration form (if required by Customs)
Foreign Exchange Remittance Card (FERC)
Overseas Pakistanis remitting foreign currency equivalent to US2,500toUS2,500toUS50,000 per annum are entitled to the following incentives:
| Type of FERC | Amount Remitted (US$) | Duty Credit (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Card | 2,500 or more | 10,000 |
| Silver Plus Card | 5,000 or more | 20,000 |
| Gold Card | 10,000 or more | 30,000 |
| Gold Plus Card | 25,000 or more | 50,000 |
| Platinum Card | 50,000 or more | 100,000 |
Incentives Include:
- Free issuance and renewal of passports on an urgent basis.
- Separate counters for special handling at all international airports in Pakistan.
- Duty credit can be utilized for seven items with fixed duty: television, deep freezer, refrigerator, microwave oven, cooking range, washing machine, and air conditioner.
Tips for Passengers
- Declare All Items:
- Declare all items, including gifts, souvenirs, and restricted goods, to avoid penalties.
- Keep Documents Ready:
- Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
- Check Duty-Free Limits:
- Familiarize yourself with duty-free allowances to avoid unexpected costs.
- Consult Customs Officials:
- If you’re unsure about any rules or regulations, consult customs officials for clarification.
Helpful Resources
- Federal Board of Revenue (FBR):
- Visit www.fbr.gov.pk for detailed information.
- FBR Help Line Center:
- Contact the FBR Help Line for assistance with customs-related queries.
- Nearest Customs Office:
- Reach out to your nearest Customs Office for personalized guidance.
Mahir Packers and Movers is here to assist passengers with all their customs clearance and relocation needs. Contact us today for expert support and a stress-free experience!