Karachi skyline in Pakistan

Import regulations · 2026

Pakistan.
Import with clarity.

A clear overview of vehicle eligibility, inspections, documents, shipping and registration when importing from Japan to Pakistan.

10 / 16Reviewed August 2026
Before you purchase

This guide is general information, not legal, customs, tax or registration advice. Requirements can change without notice. Confirm current rules with the relevant authorities before bidding, purchasing or shipping.

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01

Overview

Pakistan is one of the largest markets for Japanese used vehicles. Japanese cars are well known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, advanced features, and strong resale value.

However, importing a vehicle into Pakistan is subject to strict government regulations regarding eligibility, vehicle age, and customs procedures.

02

Can You Import a Vehicle from Japan to Pakistan?

Yes, but imports are regulated under Pakistan's Import Policy Order. Depending on the import scheme, only eligible individuals or authorised commercial importers may import used vehicles. New vehicles may also be imported subject to applicable duties and taxes.

03

Who Can Import Used Vehicles?

Used vehicles may generally be imported under one of the following schemes:

  • Personal Baggage Scheme
  • Gift Scheme
  • Transfer of Residence (TR) Scheme
  • Commercial Import Scheme (subject to current government policy) For personal imports, eligibility requirements apply, including overseas residency conditions and other criteria established by the Government of Pakistan.
04

Vehicle Age Restrictions

Current age limits include:

Passenger Cars

  • Maximum 3 years old (calculated from the year of manufacture) for imports under personal schemes.

SUVs, Vans, Pickups, Trucks & Commercial Vehicles

  • Generally up to 5 years old, subject to the applicable import policy and inspection requirements. Commercial import rules have been evolving, and Pakistan has announced phased policy changes affecting commercial imports. Importers should always verify the latest regulations before purchasing a vehicle.
05

Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Requirement

Pakistan permits Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles, making Japanese vehicles fully compatible with local driving conditions.

06

Pre-Shipment Roadworthiness Inspection

From 1 April 2026, used vehicles exported to Pakistan require a Certificate of Roadworthiness (COR) issued by an authorised inspection body such as Autoterminal Japan (ATJ), in accordance with Pakistan Standards & Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) requirements. The inspection covers:

  • Mechanical condition
  • Accident history
  • Mileage verification
  • Airbags
  • Emissions
  • Radiation inspection (for vehicles exported from Japan)
  • Glass and body condition
  • Roadworthiness Vehicles failing inspection cannot obtain the required certificate.
07

Required Documents

Importers generally need:

  • Original Bill of Lading
  • Commercial Invoice
  • Japanese Export Certificate
  • Purchase Invoice
  • Passport
  • CNIC/NICOP (where applicable)
  • Proof of overseas residency (for Gift/TR schemes)
  • Certificate of Roadworthiness (COR)
  • Goods Declaration (GD)
  • Proof of payment
  • Shipping documents Additional documents may be requested by Pakistan Customs depending on the import scheme.
08

Import Duties and Taxes

Import costs may include:

  • Customs Duty
  • Sales Tax (GST)
  • Additional Customs Duty (ACD)
  • Regulatory Duty (for applicable commercial imports)
  • Income Tax
  • Port Handling Charges
  • Customs Clearance Charges Duty is primarily determined by:
  • Engine capacity (cc)
  • Fuel type
  • Vehicle category
  • Import scheme
  • Vehicle value Hybrid vehicles may qualify for partial duty concessions under current government policy. Duty rates are periodically revised, so importers should confirm the latest tariff schedule before purchasing.
09

Shipping from Japan

Major export ports in Japan include:

  • Yokohama
  • Kobe
  • Nagoya
  • Osaka Vehicles are commonly shipped to:
  • Karachi Port
  • Port Qasim Typical transit time:
  • 12–20 days, depending on the shipping schedule and service.
10

Vehicle Registration in Pakistan

After customs clearance, the importer must:

  • Pay all applicable duties and taxes
  • Obtain customs release
  • Complete provincial Excise & Taxation registration
  • Obtain registration number
  • Purchase mandatory vehicle insurance (recommended)
  • Receive number plates and registration book/card
11

Popular Japanese Vehicles in Pakistan

Hatchbacks

  • Toyota Vitz
  • Toyota Passo
  • Honda Fit
  • Nissan Dayz
  • Suzuki Alto

Hybrid Cars

  • Toyota Prius
  • Toyota Aqua
  • Nissan Note e-POWER
  • Honda Vezel Hybrid

Sedans

  • Toyota Corolla Axio
  • Toyota Premio
  • Toyota Allion

SUVs

  • Toyota Prado
  • Toyota Land Cruiser
  • Toyota Harrier
  • Mitsubishi Pajero

Commercial Vehicles

  • Toyota HiAce
  • Nissan Caravan
  • Isuzu Elf
  • Mitsubishi Canter
12

Tips Before Buying

  • Verify the vehicle's auction inspection sheet.
  • Avoid vehicles with major accident history or tampered mileage.
  • Ensure the vehicle qualifies under Pakistan's age restrictions.
  • Obtain the mandatory Roadworthiness Inspection Certificate before shipment.
  • Confirm the estimated import duties before purchasing.
  • Buy only from a reputable Japanese exporter.
13

How 360 Moto Can Help

360 Moto provides a complete vehicle export solution for customers importing vehicles from Japan to Pakistan, including:

  • Access to thousands of Japanese auction vehicles
  • Cars, motorcycles, trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles
  • Professional auction bidding services
  • Independent vehicle inspections
  • Roadworthiness inspection assistance
  • Export documentation
  • International shipping arrangements
  • Customs documentation support
  • Personal Buying Agent service
  • Secure international payment assistance
  • Continuous customer support from purchase to delivery
14

Disclaimer from 360 Moto

This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, customs, tax, or import advice. Pakistan's import regulations, eligibility requirements, customs duties, taxes, inspection procedures, and vehicle registration rules may change without prior notice.

Buyers are responsible for confirming the latest import requirements with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Pakistan Customs, and other relevant government authorities before purchasing or importing any vehicle.

While 360 Moto strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee that all regulations, duty rates, or procedures remain unchanged at the time of import.

Planning an import to Pakistan?

Ask our team to confirm the vehicle, destination and current export requirements before purchase.

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