How To Apply For The Philippines Car Import Permit

Preparing to ship your car to the Philippines? You should check if the Philippines government will allow you to import a vehicle.

If you're planning to ship your car to the Philippines, it's important to note that the country has strict regulations when it comes to importing vehicles. Despite other Asian countries having more relaxed rules, the Philippines requires you to obtain a special import Authority permit for each car you bring into the country. This permit is only granted to specific individuals who meet certain criteria, such as Filipino citizens returning after one year abroad or those with a 13G or 13A Visa. Once you've determined your eligibility, you'll need to ensure that your vehicle adheres to certain rules, such as having a gross vehicle weight under 3 tons, being owned and registered for at least 6 months prior to the import date, and being left-hand drive. Additionally, you'll need to pay import duties that can be as high as 150%. If you're ready to apply for the permit, be sure to visit your nearest Philippines consulate and bring documentation that proves your residency abroad, ownership of the vehicle, and the source of the funds used to purchase it.

Not all individuals are allowed to apply for an import permit to bring their vehicles in to the Philippines.

The law states you must be one of the following: 

• Filipino citizen returning after one year abroad
• Filipino citizen with a 13G Visa
• married to a Filipino and a holder of 13A Visa

The vehicle must adhere to the following rules:

• Gross Vehicle Weight under 3 tons
• Owned and registered at least 6 months prior to date of import
• For personal use only and will not be resold for 3 years
• Vehicle must be left hand drive

Meet all the criteria? Don't forget to pay the import duties which can run up to 150%. 

Here's how to calculate the import duties in the Philippines:

• 40% Customs Duty
• 10% VAT
• Ad Valorem Tax from 15% to 100% depending on engine size

Ready to apply for the import permit? You must visit your nearest Philippines consulate where you are currently residing.

You will be required to bring the following documentation in order to complete the required import application:

• Proof of continuous residence abroad for at least one year
• Registration papers showing you owned the vehicle in your name for at least 6 months
• Proof that the vehicle being imported was purchased using funds not acquired in the Philippines

Source: Philippines Consulate