Overseas Pakistanis: Your Guide to Customs Rules and Regulations
For Overseas Pakistanis, understanding the customs rules and regulations when entering or departing Pakistan is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether you’re importing a used vehicle, bringing mobile phones, or shipping household goods, this guide provides basic information to help you navigate the process. For detailed information, please contact the nearest Customs Office or the FBR Help Line Center.
Passenger Facilitation Guide
This guide is designed to help Overseas Pakistanis understand their rights and obligations under Pakistan Customs rules, regulations, and procedures. Below, we cover key topics such as importing used motor vehicles, bringing mobile phones, and other important considerations.
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
Overseas Pakistanis 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)
Other Important Information for Overseas Pakistanis
1. Household Goods and Personal Effects
- Eligibility: Overseas Pakistanis can import household goods duty-free under the Transfer of Residence Scheme if they have stayed abroad for 2+ years and have not visited Pakistan for more than 120 days in those 2 years.
- Documents Required:
- Original passport
- Original CNIC
- Copy of visa
- Original bill of lading (OBL) / air waybill (AWB)
- Inventory list in English
- Packing list with purchase invoices
- Transfer of residence certificate
2. Restricted/Dutiable Items
- Cigarettes: 200 sticks
- Cigars: 50 sticks
- Tobacco: ½ kg
- Eau de Toilette: ¼ liter
- Perfume: ⅛ liter
- Gifts and Souvenirs: Reasonable quantity
3. Prohibited Items
The following items are strictly prohibited:
- Weapons of any kind
- Alcohol
- Pornography
- Narcotics
- Toxic and radioactive materials
- Any literature, CD, or DVD material against Islam or Pakistan
- Any art, painting, or object that is obscene or shows nudity
- Hides or ivory of animals
- Goods of Israeli origin
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 Overseas Pakistanis
- Plan Ahead:
- Research customs rules and regulations before traveling or shipping goods to Pakistan.
- Keep Documents Ready:
- Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
- Use a Duty Calculator:
- Estimate customs duties and taxes using an online Duty Calculator.
- Consult Professionals:
- For complex imports, consult a customs broker or clearing agent for assistance.
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 Overseas Pakistanis with all their relocation and customs clearance needs. Contact us today for expert support and a stress-free experience!
Have questions about customs rules or need assistance? Leave a comment below, and we’ll be happy to help!