SRC Warns: New Rules and Penalties for Temporary Import of Personal Vehicles
The Armenian State Revenue Committee (SRC) has issued a public reminder regarding the regulations surrounding the temporary import of personal vehicles registered in non-EAEU countries. This announcement comes amid growing public interest and concerns about the rules and potential penalties for violations.
The SRC highlights key guidelines, the legal framework, and the consequences of non-compliance, emphasizing the importance of adhering to EAEU Customs Code regulations.
Key Rules for Temporary Vehicle Import
According to the EAEU Customs Code, individuals can temporarily import personal-use vehicles into Armenia for up to one year. The SRC clarifies that there are no provisions for extending this period beyond the stipulated timeframe.
Important Rules to Note:
- Eligibility: Both foreign nationals and EAEU citizens can import vehicles temporarily.
- Duration: Maximum period allowed is 12 months.
- First Import Exemption: Foreign individuals are exempt from paying customs duties for the first imported vehicle.
- Customs Obligations: Armenian residents—classified as “Union Persons”—must pay customs duties on all temporarily imported vehicles.
Understanding ‘Union Persons’ vs. ‘Foreign Persons’
The SRC differentiates between individuals based on their place of residence:
- Union Person: Anyone with a permanent residence in Armenia or other EAEU member states.
- Foreign Person: Those without a permanent residence in the EAEU, regardless of citizenship.
For example:
- If a foreign citizen imports one car, they are exempt from customs duties.
- If they import a second car, they must pay all applicable customs duties.
Common Violations and Misuse
The SRC has identified several instances of misuse involving foreign-registered vehicles. These vehicles are often initially imported by foreign individuals but later handed over to Armenian residents, which violates customs regulations.
Key Misconduct Observed:
- Vehicle Handover: Temporarily imported cars are transferred to third parties.
- Operator Absence: The foreign individual who imported the vehicle leaves Armenia, leaving the car for local use.
This practice is illegal because vehicles under customs control must remain in the importer’s possession unless specified otherwise by law.
Legal Consequences and Penalties
Under Article 308, Clause 2 of Armenia’s “Customs Regulation Law,” individuals found transferring vehicles without proper authorization will face:
- A fine equal to 20% of the vehicle’s customs value.
🔍 Example:
If a car has a customs value of $20,000, the offender will be fined $4,000.
This regulation applies regardless of whether the vehicle was imported for temporary or long-term use.
How to Avoid Penalties
The SRC advises vehicle importers to:
- Ensure Vehicles Remain in Their Possession:
Do not hand over imported cars to others without prior approval. - Stay Informed:
Regularly check for regulatory updates via the SRC’s official channels. - Consult with Customs Authorities:
When in doubt, contact the SRC to clarify specific cases.
Tip: Avoid relying on verbal guidance from unverified sources. Official channels provide up-to-date, reliable information. The SRC’s latest announcement serves as a critical reminder for individuals temporarily importing vehicles into Armenia. Adhering to EAEU customs regulations is essential to avoid significant financial penalties and legal complications.
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