The federal government has approved major amendments to the Import Policy Order 2022, placing a ban on importing vehicles under the personal baggage scheme and introducing stricter conditions for overseas Pakistanis bringing vehicles into the country.

Under the revised policy, vehicles can no longer be imported into Pakistan under the personal baggage category. Imports will now be allowed only through the Transfer of Residence Scheme and as gifts.

The move is part of broader changes approved by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), aimed at regulating vehicle inflows and ensuring compliance with standards.

Following ECC approval, the Ministry of Commerce issued a formal notification implementing the amendments to the Import Policy Order 2022.

The notification confirms that only specific schemes will now be recognized for importing vehicles from abroad.

One-year restriction on vehicle transfer

According to the updated rules, any vehicle imported under the approved schemes cannot be transferred to another person’s name for at least one year. This condition applies across both the residence and gift categories.

Officials say the restriction is intended to discourage commercial misuse of personal import schemes.

Import period extended to 850 days

The government has also extended the allowable time period for importing vehicles. The prescribed duration has been increased from 700 days to 850 days, providing overseas Pakistanis additional flexibility.

This extension applies to eligible individuals importing vehicles under the revised policy framework.

Minimum safety and environmental standards have now been made compulsory for all used vehicles imported into Pakistan. Vehicles failing to meet these benchmarks will not be allowed entry.

The step aligns vehicle imports with broader environmental and road safety objectives.

Condition tied to country of residence

Vehicles imported under the Transfer of Residence Scheme must originate from the same country where the overseas Pakistani is residing. This condition has been added to prevent misuse of the scheme through third countries.

Officials say the measure ensures transparency and better verification of eligibility.