Government of Pakistan
Notification: New Baggage Rules Effective from July 1, 2016
In collaboration with Fast Logistics, here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the new baggage rules for a seamless relocation experience.
Household Goods and Personal Effects
Documents Required:
- Original passport
- Original CNIC (for Pakistani nationals)
- Copy of visa
- Original or express bill of lading (OBL) / air waybill (AWB)
- Inventory list in English
- Packing list with purchase invoices
- Certificate of employment
- Transfer of residence certificate
- Exemption certificate (for diplomats)
- Copy of diplomatic ID card (for diplomats)
Specific Information:
- Pakistani Citizens: Eligible for transfer of residence if stayed abroad for 2+ years and not visited Pakistan for over 120 days during that period.
- Foreign Nationals: Eligible for duty discounts if staying for 2+ years (as per employment letter).
- Electrical Items: Dutiable for citizens.
- Duty-Free Import: Non-citizens can import duty-free for 6 months with a CBR booklet.
- Customs Valuation: Based on CIF value.
- Only used clothing and household effects qualify for duty-free import.
- Letter of Authority: Required for all shipments.
- Clearance Time: 4–5 days after arrival; consignee must be present.
- Negotiation: All items are dutiable but negotiable on depreciation.
- Avoid heavy duties: Don’t send insurance/invoice docs with shipment.
- Diplomats: Duty-free with diplomatic exemption certificate.
Motor Vehicles
Documents Required:
- Copy of passport
- Original or express OBL / AWB
- Original technical passport or certificate of title
- De-registration certificate
- Invoice showing engine number, model, and horsepower
Specific Information:
- Pakistani Nationals: Cannot import vehicles older than 3 years.
- Diplomats: Can import vehicles older than 2 years.
Restricted/Dutiable Items
May qualify for free import if within limits:
- 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 0.5 kg tobacco
- 0.25L eau de toilette, 0.125L perfume
- Gifts/souvenirs (reasonable quantity)
Note: All electronic items are dutiable even under transfer of residence.
Prohibited Items
- Weapons
- Alcohol
- Pornography
- Narcotics
- Toxic or radioactive materials
- Anti-Islamic or anti-Pakistan media
- Obscene art or nude objects
- Ivory or animal hides
- Israeli origin goods
Foreign Exchange Remittance Card (FERC)
Overseas Pakistanis remitting foreign currency are entitled to incentives:
| Type of FERC | Amount Remitted (US$) | Duty Credit (Rs.) |
|---|
| Silver Card | 2,500+ | 10,000 |
| Silver Plus | 5,000+ | 20,000 |
| Gold Card | 10,000+ | 30,000 |
| Gold Plus | 25,000+ | 50,000 |
| Platinum | 50,000+ | 100,000 |
Incentives Include:
- Free urgent passport issuance and renewal
- Dedicated counters at international airports
- Duty credit usable on: TV, freezer, fridge, microwave, cooking range, washing machine, AC
Consignment Instructions
Recommendation: Contact Fast Logistics (destination agent) to ensure complete compliance for both air and sea shipments.
Helpful Resources:
- U.S. Department of State – Pakistan Travel
- Pakistan Consulate New York
- Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Pakistan
