Diplomatic Missions or Foreign Offices (DMFOs) and their eligible staff members may import duty-free vehicles for official or personal use, subject to the principle of reciprocity, allowed quota and applicant’s official status.
I. Request for Import Permission
The applying DMFOs and its eligible members should first submit a note verbale or official letter in advance enclosed with the following:
1. Information specifying:
(1) whether the vehicle is for official or personal use.
(2) The make, year, model, engine size, and, if possible, vehicle ID Number (VIN) of the vehicle.
2. A copy of the Vehicle Purchase Quotation, applicable to newly purchased vehicles;
3. A copy of the applicant’s MOFA ID Card:
(1) Head of mission’s, for official use.
(2) Eligible staff member’s, for personal use.
II. Required Subsequent Submissions
Once permission is granted for the importation, the applying DMFOs and its eligible members shall submit another note verbale or official letter enclosed with the following documents:
1. A copy of the Duty-Free Import Permit previously issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
2.Four (4) completed copies of the Application Form for Duty-Free Vehicles Imported by Diplomatic Missions/Foreign Offices;
3. Packing list, with the imported vehicle information highlighted to ensure it is clearly identified;
4. Bill of lading;
5.A copy of the Certificate of Origin issued by authorized dealer or manufacturer;
6. A copy of the Letter of Guarantee;
7. A copy of the applicant's MOFA ID Card:
(1) Head of mission’s, for official use.
(2) Eligible staff member’s, for personal use.
8. A copy of the vehicle purchase receipt, applicable to newly purchased vehicles.
III. Application for Vehicle License Plate
DMFOs and its eligible members shall request a vehicle license plate for the vehicle after its importation. For more information on vehicle license plate, please refer to the “3-6 Application for Vehicle License Plate” section.
IV. Vehicle Regulations
1. When DMFOs and its eligible staff members intend to replace a currently owned vehicle in Taiwan with an imported vehicle, the existing vehicle license plate must be cancelled first for import approval purposes.
2. Importation of vehicles with right-hand drive will not be permitted.
3. Imported vehicles are handled in accordance with the principle of reciprocity and relevant regulations of the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Economic Affairs. When the imported vehicles are to be sold in the future, DMFOs and its eligible staff members shall ensure that the vehicle passes all inspections required under applicable regulations.