Saudi Arabia Car Import Rules

Importing a vehicle into Saudi Arabia involves a series of regulations and procedures that must be followed to ensure a smooth and compliant process. Whether you are a resident or a GCC citizen, knowing the eligibility criteria and guidelines for vehicle importation is crucial. This guide provides valuable insights on the necessary documentation for customs clearance, the procedures to follow as regards customs duty, and the step-by-step process for Saudi Arabia car import rules. By familiarizing yourself with these details, you can navigate the complexities of importing vehicles into Saudi Arabia with confidence.

Who can import?

When it comes to importing a car to Saudi Arabia, it’s essential to meet certain eligibility criteria. If you hold a valid iqama (residency permit) or are a citizen of a GCC country like Saudi Arabia, Oman, UAE, Qatar, or Bahrain, you’re in luck. These individuals are eligible to import one car per year for personal use.

Vehicle Importation Guidelines:

Before proceeding with importing your car to Saudi Arabia, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and restrictions outlined by the country’s regulations.

Please note the following guidelines:

• No Right-Hand-Drive Vehicles: Importation of right-hand-drive automobiles is not allowed in Saudi Arabia. Only left-hand-drive vehicles are permitted for import.
• One Car per Person: Individuals are limited to importing only one car for personal use. Importing multiple vehicles for personal use is not permitted.
• Age Restriction: Cars older than five years are not eligible for importation. The age of the vehicle is calculated from the date of manufacture.
• Prohibition on Loading Personal Items: It is strictly prohibited to load personal items inside the vehicle during importation.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can navigate the importation process smoothly and comply with Saudi Arabia’s guidelines for importing a car. It is recommended to consult with the relevant authorities or seek assistance from a professional import agent like KIM International Movers(car relocation service),  to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for a successful importation.

 Essential Documents for Customs Clearance

To proceed with customs clearance for importing a vehicle into Saudi Arabia, certain documents are required. These include:

• Copy of passport with picture and visa: You will need to provide a photocopy of your passport, including your personal information, photograph, and the valid visa page.
• Copy of residence permit (Iqama) / BATAQA: If you are a resident in Saudi Arabia, it is necessary to include a copy of your residence permit, commonly known as Iqama or BATAQA.
• Authorization Letter: The authorized entity handling the customs clearance, will supply you with a specific format for an authorization letter. This letter grants authority to act on your behalf during the customs clearance process.
• Copy of Saudi Driver’s License: If you possess a valid Saudi Arabian driver’s license, you will need to provide a photocopy of it. This document is required to confirm your eligibility to operate vehicles within the country.
• Original de-registration certificate from the country of origin or original certificate of ownership: When importing a vehicle, you must present either the original de-registration certificate from the country of origin where the vehicle was previously registered or the original certificate of ownership. This document serves as proof of ownership and aids in the vehicle registration process within Saudi Arabia.

Customs Duty Procedures

When importing a vehicle into Saudi Arabia, customs duty is applicable. The customs duty is calculated at 5% of the C.I.F. (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value, which includes the purchase cost of the vehicle, insurance charges, and shipping fees. The car and any personal effects accompanying it will be cleared through customs at the same time.

Additionally, the consignee (the person receiving the imported car) is not allowed to drive the vehicle until they have obtained the car registration certificate from the traffic police. This certificate serves as proof that the vehicle has been registered and complies with the necessary requirements for driving on Saudi Arabian roads. It is important to stay updated on the specific customs regulations and procedures for importing cars into Saudi Arabia.

Car Registration Procedures

The car registration process in Saudi Arabia involves several steps. Here is an outline of the procedure:

• The car registration agent will provide the consignee with a copy of the Bayan document.
• The consignee needs to obtain the SASO certificate and give the original certificate to the agent.
• The SASO certificate will be submitted to Jeddah Customs, which will issue a green card.
• The consignee must bring the vehicle, along with the copy of the Bayan document and the green card, for the Motor Vehicle Periodic Inspection (MVPI).
• As part of the registration process, the consignee must purchase car insurance.</li >

Required documents for car registration

When importing a vehicle into Saudi Arabia and registering it, several important documents are required. These documents include:

• Copy of Bayan document
• Green card
• Car insurance
• Motor Vehicle Periodic Inspection (MVPI) certificate
• Copy of passport
• Copy of Saudi residence permit
• Copy of Saudi driver’s license

By ensuring you have all the necessary documents for car registration, you can streamline the process and comply with the requirements set forth by Saudi Arabian authorities.

Conclusion:

Importing a vehicle into Saudi Arabia requires careful attention to regulations, eligibility criteria, and necessary documentation. By understanding the process and consulting with the relevant authorities or professional import agents, you can ensure a smooth and compliant experience. Alongside these considerations, choosing the right movers is crucial for a stress-free move. We at KIM International Movers, pride ourselves as one of the best international movers in Saudi Arabia, offer comprehensive support for importing vehicles. With our expertise, we handle customs procedures, documentation, and transportation logistics with efficiency and care. Trust our dedicated team to provide a seamless experience, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and hassle-free. Choose our KIM Vehicle Relocation service for a smooth transition when importing your vehicle to Saudi Arabia.