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How Non-Resident Bangladeshis (Nrbs) Can Bring Personal Cars From Japan To Bangladesh Tax-Free (2025 Guide)

How Non-Resident Bangladeshis (Nrbs) Can Bring Personal Cars From Japan To Bangladesh Tax-Free (2025 Guide)
  • Admin
  • 10 Apr, 2025
  • 406 views

For many Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs), returning home means more than just memories—it also includes bringing back the life they’ve built abroad. One common question among NRBs in Japan is:
“Can I bring my personal car to Bangladesh tax-free?”
The answer: Yes—under certain conditions.

This blog post provides a step-by-step guide to help NRBs understand the process, requirements, and eligibility for importing their personal car to Bangladesh with reduced or no taxes.

🚘 Why Do NRBs Want to Bring Their Cars?

Japan is known for its high-quality, well-maintained vehicles. Many NRBs living there own a personal car they’ve grown attached to—and it often makes financial sense to bring that car home, rather than sell it and buy a new one in Bangladesh.

βœ… Eligibility: Who Can Import a Car Tax-Free?

Not all NRBs automatically qualify for tax-free car import. You may be eligible if you meet the following criteria:

Requirement Condition
Residency You have legally lived abroad (Japan) for at least 2 years.
Vehicle Ownership The car is registered in your name and has been in your use for 6+ months.
Return Reason You are returning to Bangladesh permanently or long-term.
Application Status You apply for and receive prior approval from relevant Bangladeshi authorities.

πŸ“‹ Required Documents

To apply for a tax exemption or reduced duty, prepare the following:

  1. Valid Passport (with immigration stamps)

  2. Bangladeshi NID or Birth Certificate

  3. Japanese Residence Card or Long-Term Visa

  4. Car Registration (Shaken) in your name

  5. Proof of Use (minimum 180 days)

  6. Export Certificate (ζŠΉζΆˆη™»ιŒ²θ¨Όζ˜Žζ›Έ from Japan)

  7. Invoice or Auction Sheet (if applicable)

  8. Tax Waiver Request Letter (explaining purpose of return and car import)

πŸ›ƒ Understanding “Transfer of Residence” Rule

Under Transfer of Residence policy by the Bangladesh government, NRBs returning home can bring one used personal car, possibly with tax concessions.

Key Points:

  • Car must be right-hand drive.

  • Car must be within 3 years old (from manufacture date).

  • You must have stayed abroad for at least 730 days (2 years).

  • Tax reduction is not automatic — you must apply in advance to the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare or BOESL.

πŸ’° What Taxes Are Usually Applied?

Unless exempted, the following taxes are charged on car imports:

  • Customs Duty

  • Supplementary Duty (SD)

  • Value Added Tax (VAT)

  • Advance Income Tax (AIT)

  • Registration Cost (BRTA)

Together, these can amount to 300–600% of CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight). This is why tax exemption or waiver is important to secure before importing.

πŸ“ Step-by-Step Process for NRBs

  1. Confirm Eligibility
    Make sure you meet the NRB and Transfer of Residence requirements.

  2. Get Approval
    Apply for prior approval from:

    • Bangladesh Embassy in Japan

    • Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare & Overseas Employment

    • BOESL (if applicable)

  3. Prepare Vehicle Documents
    Gather all car-related paperwork: registration, insurance, deregistration certificate, etc.

  4. Choose a Shipping Method
    Most use Ro-Ro (Roll-on Roll-off) or container shipping from Japanese ports to Chattogram or Mongla.

  5. Appoint a C&F Agent in Bangladesh
    A customs clearing agent will help you handle the import formalities upon arrival.

  6. Pay Applicable Duties (if not exempted)
    If your tax waiver is not granted, be prepared to pay full import duties.

  7. Register with BRTA
    Once customs clearance is done, register your car with the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA).

🌟 Tips for a Smooth Experience

  • Start the application process at least 2–3 months in advance.

  • Ensure all documents are in your name, not a relative's.

  • Don’t ship the car until official approval is granted.

  • Use a trusted logistics partner for shipping and clearance.

πŸ“ž Contact Points for NRBs

Organization Contact
Bangladesh Embassy in Japan Visit their website
BOESL (Manpower Bureau) www.boesl.gov.bd
NBR (National Board of Revenue) www.nbr.gov.bd
BRTA www.brta.gov.bd

🧾 Final Thoughts

Bringing your personal car from Japan to Bangladesh as an NRB is possible—and in some cases, even tax-free. However, the process involves paperwork, approvals, and compliance with import regulations. By following the proper steps and getting the right permissions, you can bring your beloved car home without financial headaches.

Are you an NRB looking to bring your car to Bangladesh?
Need help with the paperwork, customs, or shipping?
πŸ“© Contact our team for consultation and support.

✍️ Written by: Muhammad Suja
NRB & Car Export Consultant | Based in Japan
Helping Bangladeshis connect home—one car at a time.

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