Isaias Lijauco
Importing a car to the Philippines can be tricky business. Fellow expats would probably tell you that it’s easier to just sell your old car and use the funds to get a new one in the archipelago. But in case you’re too attached to your beloved ride to do that, you’re in luck! Below is a step-by-step guide that will help you get your vehicle to the PH.
Step 1: Check If Your Car is Classified As Old or New
You need to know whether your automobile can be categorized as new or old in the Philippines. New cars in the country usually meet the following criteria:
- Its motor vehicle year is the present one.
- It hasn’t been registered or used in the country yet.
- It mileage is less than 50 kilometres.
- Its first owner is you.
Your vehicle will be registered as used in case you fail to meet any of the points above.
Step 2: Be a Permanent Resident Visa Holder
Only certain individuals are entitled by Philippine law to import vehicles for personal use. These individuals usually pertain to former or returning Filipino citizens who have stayed abroad for more than a year. But expats who want to bring their car to the Philippines can also do so provided they have permanent residence visas.
Step 3: Meet Other Requirements
Once your immigration papers are in order, you need to ensure the following requirements before having your car shipped to the Philippines:
- Proof that the vehicle is legally obtained (this is usually the proof of payment).
- Latest car registration documents (it must be still valid for at least 6 months).
- Gross vehicle weight should not exceed 3 tons.
- Certificate of Authority to Import (issued by the Bureau of Import Services).
- It must not be resold for at least 3 years.
- Only 1 vehicle is allowed per family.
Step 4: Settle Importation Taxes
You need to settle the pecuniary details. Importing used cars to the Philippines can be pretty expensive, but you can determine the amount of taxes and duties you need to pay by sending the following info to the Bureau of Customs:
- Motor Vehicle Year
- Car Make and Model
- Piston Displacement
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or Chassis Number
- Copy of Latest Car Registration
Step 5: Get Print to Import Authority
You also need to make sure your vehicle has a Prior to Import Authority (PIA). Obtain this by submitting the following documents at the Bureau of Import Service:
- Proof of residency for one year or more.
- Proof that you acquired the automobile legally.
- Latest Car Registration (at least 6 months valid).
Conclusion
Make sure you follow the steps listed above and have the necessary documents at hand. That way, you’ll be able to have your beloved old car shipped to the Philippines in no time.