India Import Regulations

Import Rules

• • Steering: Only right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are allowed. Left-hand drive vehicles are generally prohibited, except for testing or research under special permission.
• • Age restriction: Maximum 3 years old. The vehicle must comply with Central Motor Vehicle Rules (1989) and have a minimum residual life of 5 years.
• • Mandatory testing: The vehicle must be tested at government-approved agencies (for example VRDE Ahmednagar, ARAI Pune, CFMTT Budni) for: Roadworthiness
• • Compliance with Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989
• • Homologation certificate verification

Shipping & Logistics

• • Destination ports: Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata.
• • Shipping time: Approximately 19–24 days (RORO).
• • Vessel schedule: Monthly.
• • Shipping line: Naval Docks.
• • Inspection: Roadworthiness certificate required.

Duties & Taxes

• • Import duty on cars: Approximately 165% of CIF (cost, insurance, and freight).
• • Customs duty breakdown (cars): Basic customs duty: 40%
• • Special customs duty: 5%
• • Additional duty: 40%
• • MV cess: 0.125%
• • Special additional duty: 4%

Other Considerations

• • Transfer of residence: NRIs and foreign nationals may import one vehicle under transfer of residence rules, subject to conditions: Must have lived outside India for at least 2 years.
• • Vehicle must be imported within 6 months of return.
• • Resale is prohibited for 2 years.