How to Import a Car in Pakistan 2025 Complete Guide

If you are thinking about importing a car in Pakistan in 2025, you are not alone. Every year, thousands of Pakistanis explore the option of bringing cars from Japan, the UK, or other countries. Some people do it for the love of luxury and technology, while others simply want better value for money compared to locally assembled cars.

But here’s the catch: the import process is not as straightforward as buying a car from a local showroom. There are government policies, taxes, paperwork, and shipping procedures involved. The good news is that once you understand the steps, the process becomes much easier to handle.

This guide covers everything about importing a car in Pakistan in 2025, including who can import, how taxes work, the shipping process, registration steps, and answers to common questions.

Why Import a Car in Pakistan?

If you’ve ever felt disappointed with the limited variety or high price of local cars, you are not alone. Imported cars are becoming more popular because they often offer more value.

Here are some of the top reasons people choose to import:

• Better quality: Cars from Japan or Europe usually have stronger build quality, better finishing, and advanced features.
  
• More variety: You can find models that are not even launched in Pakistan.
  
• Modern technology: Hybrids, EVs, and safety features like lane assist or adaptive cruise control are available in imports but are missing in most local cars.

Who Can Import a Car in Pakistan (2025 Policy)?

The Government of Pakistan allows overseas Pakistanis to import cars under three main schemes:

1. Personal Baggage Scheme
2. Transfer of Residence Scheme
3. Gift Scheme

If you are living abroad or planning to send a car to a family member in Pakistan, you are eligible. These schemes are designed mainly for overseas Pakistanis, not for commercial dealers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Importing a Car in Pakistan

Now let’s get into the actual process. Importing a car involves four major stages.

1. Choose the Right Car

The first step is to decide which car you want to import. Most people prefer Japanese imports because they are reliable, fuel-efficient, and offer good value. Websites like Be Forward, CarFromJapan, and TradeCarView are commonly used for browsing cars.

Keep in mind: passenger cars must usually be less than 3 years old, while SUVs and commercial vehicles may be up to 5 years old.

2. Calculate Duties and Taxes

This is the most important part of the process. The total cost of your imported car depends on duties and taxes, which may include:

• Customs Duty
• Sales Tax
• Withholding Tax
• Regulatory Duty (in some cases)

The amount is calculated based on engine capacity (CC), model, and year of manufacture. For example, duties for a small 660cc car may be around PKR 300,000, while larger luxury vehicles can easily cross PKR 2 million.

That is why it is essential to check the duty structure before finalizing your decision.

3. Shipping and Customs Clearance

Once you buy the car, it will usually be shipped to Karachi Port. Sea freight is the most common method.

Hiring a trusted shipping agent and a customs clearing agent is highly recommended. They will take care of paperwork, customs duties, and clearance procedures. This can save you time and stress.

4. Vehicle Registration

After your car clears customs, you need to register it at the Excise and Taxation Office in your province. The documents required usually include:

• Bill of Entry
• Export Certificate
• Translated documents (if required)
• Proof of all duty and tax payments

Once registration is complete, you will receive a number plate and ownership documents. From here on, your imported car is officially legal to drive on Pakistani roads.

Pro Tips for First-Time Importers

• Always check the reputation of the exporter before sending money.
  
• Calculate the total cost, including duties, shipping, and registration, before making a decision.
  
• Avoid deals that look suspiciously cheap. If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.
  
• Stay updated with government import policies, as rules and tax structures may change.

Final Thoughts

Importing a car in Pakistan in 2025 might sound complicated at first, but once you break it into steps, it becomes manageable. The paperwork may feel heavy, and the taxes are definitely high, but in the end, you get the car you really wanted — whether it’s for comfort, fuel efficiency, or luxury.

If you plan carefully, calculate costs properly, and follow the right procedure, importing a car could be one of the smartest investments you make this year.

FAQs

Can I import a left-hand drive car?

No, Pakistan only allows right-hand drive cars unless you have a special permit.

Can I import an electric vehicle (EV)?
Yes. In fact, the government has reduced duties on fully electric cars to encourage eco-friendly transportation.

How long does the import process take?
On average, it takes 6 to 8 weeks from the time you buy the car to the time it reaches Pakistan.

Can I finance an imported car through a bank?
Yes, some banks do provide financing options for imported cars, but terms and eligibility vary.

What is the maximum age limit for imported cars?
Passenger cars can be up to 3 years old, while SUVs and commercial vehicles can be up to 5 years old.