We always recommend checking with your embassy, a clearing agent in Thailand or the authorities in Thailand to ensure you have up to date information on the rules and regulations. The information here is for guidance purposes only and should not be used as hard and fast rules.
A person with a non-immigrant visa and a work permit valid to work in Thailand for at least one year may import one new or used vehicle for personal use.
Note: New or used vehicles permanently imported into Thailand are generally subject to very high taxes and duties (often around 200 percent of the vehicle’s value). Any prospective importer is required to have an Import Permit from the Ministry Of Commerce. Attempts to import without the correct permit will result in the vehicle being confiscated and hefty fines. Because of the complicated nature of importing a car permanently into Thailand, it is advisable to use a Thai-speaking agent. The Import Permit has to be issued before the vehicle’s arrival in Thailand.
- Valid non-immigrant visa
- A work permit valid for at least one year
- An import declaration form
- Bill of loading or air waybill
- Sale documents
- Delivery Order (Customs Form No. 100/1)
- Foreign Transaction Form 2 in case where the CIF value of the imported vehicles exceeds 500,000 Baht
- An insurance premium invoice
Used or second-hand vehicles will also require the following documents:
- House registration certificate (Tabien Baan) or the land title (Chanote) or the Condo title deed
- Passport
- Vehicle registration certificate indicating that the imported vehicle was used abroad for at least 18 months
- An import permit from the Ministry of Commerce
