Rewritten Title: New Policy Framework Announced for Vehicle Imports by Iranians Residing Abroad
Article:
In a significant move aimed at managing foreign currency resources while addressing accumulated market demand, the Iranian government has unveiled a detailed regulatory framework for vehicle imports by its citizens residing overseas for the Persian year 1404 (2025).
The new policy outlines specific technical, financial, and executive criteria, creating a structured pathway for eligible individuals to import vehicles under clearly defined conditions.
Eligibility and Residency Requirements
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must meet specific residency criteria. They must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid residence permit (either permanent or temporary) from their country of residence. Crucially, this permit must have been issued before June 10, 2025 (21 Khordad 1404). Furthermore, applicants are required to have spent a minimum of 18 days physically present in their country of residence during the year 1404.
A Pivotal Deadline and Currency Regulations
A central feature of the new regulations is the distinction created by the June 10, 2025, deadline.
- Before June 10, 2025: Applicants will face no restrictions on the engine size of the vehicle they wish to import. There will also be no limitations on the source of currency used for the purchase.
- After June 10, 2025: Imports will only be permitted using foreign currency sourced directly from the applicant’s own bank account held outside of Iran.
Permitted Vehicles and Key Restrictions
The policy permits the import of both new and used vehicles from model years 2020 to 2025. Used vehicles must have a maximum mileage of 100,000 kilometers. However, several restrictions apply:
- The import of diesel-powered vehicles is prohibited.
- Right-hand drive vehicles are not permitted.
- Vehicles of American origin are banned.
- Specific limitations are also placed on the import of “super-luxury” vehicles.
Structured Tariff System
The government has implemented a tiered tariff system that heavily incentivizes the import of smaller, more efficient vehicles:
- Electric Vehicles: 4%
- Hybrid Vehicles: 15%
- Gasoline Vehicles up to 1500cc: 20%
- Gasoline Vehicles 1500cc to 2000cc: 40%
- Gasoline Vehicles 2000cc to 2500cc: 155%
- Gasoline Vehicles 2500cc to 3000cc: 180%
- Gasoline Vehicles over 3000cc: 190%
This structure means that while the import of high-engine-capacity vehicles is technically possible before the June deadline, the associated costs will be substantially higher.
Application Process and Final Provisions
The import process is a two-stage procedure, beginning with registration on the ‘Mikhak’ system, followed by completion on the ‘Comprehensive Trade’ system. Once these stages are finalized, the vehicle clearance process from customs can begin.
The regulations clarify that there are no restrictions on the subsequent transfer of ownership, allowing the importer to sell the vehicle to another party after it has been cleared and registered. The scheme is set to conclude on March 19, 2026 (29 Esfand 1404).