Import Car From Saudi Arabia To Pakistan

Bringing a car from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan can be a straightforward process if you understand the necessary steps, policies, and requirements. Whether you’re relocating, gifting a vehicle to a family member, or simply wish to bring a luxury car into the country, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know to navigate the car import process from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan.

Why Import a Car from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan?

Importing a car from Saudi Arabia can offer Pakistani buyers access to a wide variety of vehicles, including premium and luxury cars, often at a lower price than local dealerships. Additionally, cars from Saudi Arabia are generally well-maintained due to the country’s strict regulations and desert climate, which helps preserve vehicle quality.

Key Steps to Import a Car from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan

The car import process from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan involves several steps, from understanding eligibility requirements to managing customs duty and transportation logistics. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process.

1. Understand the Import Eligibility Requirements

Before beginning the import process, make sure the car and importer meet the necessary eligibility criteria. Importing cars from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan is generally governed by Pakistan’s Import Policy Order. Here are some critical points to keep in mind:

• New Cars: Anyone can import new vehicles into Pakistan, subject to payment of duties and taxes.
• Used Cars: Used cars can only be imported under specific schemes, which include the Transfer of Residence, Gift Scheme, or Personal Baggage Scheme.Import Schemes:
  • Transfer of Residence: This scheme allows Pakistani nationals who have lived abroad for at least 700 days in the last three years to import a vehicle into Pakistan.
  • Gift Scheme: Pakistani nationals residing abroad for a minimum of 700 days can gift a vehicle to a family member in Pakistan.
  • Baggage Scheme: A person who has stayed abroad for at least 180 days in the last seven months can bring a vehicle under this scheme.

Note: Vehicles older than three years (for cars) or five years (for other vehicles) are generally not permitted under the Import Policy Order.

2. Calculate the Cost of Importing a Car from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan

One of the most crucial steps in the process is understanding the cost involved. The total expense includes customs duty, taxes, and shipping charges.

Factors Affecting Cost:

• Customs Duty: This is the most significant part of the cost. Customs duty on imported cars in Pakistan depends on factors like the car’s age, engine capacity, and make.
• Taxes: Additional taxes apply, including Federal Excise Duty (FED), Sales Tax, and Withholding Tax. These rates vary depending on the type of vehicle.
• Shipping Costs: Typically, vehicles are shipped via sea from Jeddah to Karachi. The cost of shipping varies based on factors like vehicle size, shipping company, and type of transport (e.g., Roll-On/Roll-Off or container shipping).

3. Customs Duty and Tax Rates

When importing a car from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, customs duty is calculated based on engine capacity (cc). For Asian makes, fixed duties are applied according to engine size, while non-Asian makes are assessed based on their market value by Pakistan Customs.

• Duty Rates for Common Engine Sizes:
  • Up to 800cc: Fixed duty rate in USD
  • 801cc to 1000cc: Higher fixed duty rate in USD
  • Over 1000cc: Custom duty increases significantly for luxury and high-performance vehicles.

You can use an import duty calculator to get an estimate. This tool is available on various Pakistani government websites and helps determine the cost of importing a car from Saudi Arabia based on its engine capacity and age.

Essential Documents Required for Importing a Car

To import a car from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, you need to gather and submit several documents to ensure smooth processing through customs.

Required Documents:

1. Original Purchase Invoice – Proof of purchase from the dealership or previous owner.
2. Bill of Lading – Provided by the shipping company, documenting the transportation of the vehicle.
3. Copy of CNIC (Pakistan) – For Pakistani nationals or residents.
4. Passport Copy – Required for individuals importing under the Gift or Baggage Scheme.
5. Proof of Residence Abroad – Necessary for eligibility verification under various schemes.
6. Vehicle Registration Document – For used cars, this shows previous registration in Saudi Arabia.

Additional Tips for Document Preparation

• Ensure all documents are correctly filled and verified by the relevant authorities to avoid delays at customs.
• Double-check the eligibility of the car model, as some may not meet the import criteria for Pakistan.

Shipping Car from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan: Options and Charges

Shipping the vehicle is one of the critical parts of the import process. Most cars imported from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan are shipped from the Jeddah port to the Karachi port.

Shipping Methods:

• Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo): This is the most cost-effective option, where cars are driven directly onto the shipping vessel.
• Container Shipping: A more secure but costly option, where the car is loaded into a container.

Shipping Charges: Shipping costs vary but generally range from $700 to $1500, depending on the vehicle’s size, weight, and chosen shipping method.

Import Process for Different Types of Vehicles

Different types of vehicles have unique requirements for import:

1. Luxury Cars

Luxury cars generally attract higher custom duties and taxes due to their larger engine sizes and higher market values.

2. Used Cars

For used cars, Pakistan has strict policies. They must be under three years old to qualify for importation under the Gift, Baggage, or Residence Transfer Schemes.

3. Commercial Vehicles

Importing commercial vehicles requires additional approvals, and taxes on these are usually higher compared to personal vehicles.

Pro Tip: Use a reputable shipping service and obtain multiple quotes to compare costs and service quality.

Car Registration Process for Imported Vehicles in Pakistan

Once the vehicle has arrived in Pakistan and cleared customs, the next step is registration with the Excise and Taxation Department.

Steps for Vehicle Registration:

1. Submit Documentation – Submit the import documents, customs duty payment receipts, and CNIC copy.
2. Pay Registration Fees – Fees vary based on vehicle make and model.
3. Vehicle Inspection – A mandatory inspection may be required by local authorities to verify the car’s condition and identity.

Important Considerations for Pakistani Expats Importing Cars

For Pakistani expats looking to bring their vehicles home, the following points are essential:

• Gift Policy: Family members can receive a vehicle as a gift from abroad, but eligibility is restricted to immediate family members.
• Personal Baggage and Residence Transfer: These schemes allow returning residents to bring a car if they meet the specified time requirements abroad.
• Customs Clearance: Customs duty reductions apply to older vehicles, but ensure the car is under three years old.

Trusted Car Import and Dealership Services in Pakistan

If you’re considering importing a car or purchasing a high-quality used vehicle in Pakistan, MK Sargodha Motors can be a reliable choice. Located in Sargodha, MK Sargodha Motors has been a trusted name since 2022, offering a wide selection of quality used cars at competitive prices. With a commitment to transparency, MK Sargodha Motors assists customers with a seamless buying experience and provides guidance on car import processes. Their team ensures each client finds the best vehicle suited to their needs.

Conclusion

Importing a car from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan can be a rewarding process, giving you access to vehicles that may not be readily available in the local market. By understanding the eligibility criteria, required documentation, and total costs, you can make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. Be sure to calculate all taxes and duties in advance, choose a reputable shipping method, and follow all customs guidelines to ensure a smooth import process. Whether you’re bringing in a luxury vehicle, a used car, or a commercial vehicle, this guide provides the information you need to make the journey stress-free.

For any additional questions or to explore quality used cars within Pakistan, visit MK Sargodha Motors for expert advice and a reliable selection of vehicles.