Farang import of car duty free?

[gtcasap]

I read that a farang imported his car "duty-free" and after 5 years he could sell it.

Does anyone know the proper procedure for bringing a car in duty free. I am moving to Thailand this fall on a retirement visa, my partner is starting a business in Thailand and has already formed a corporation. Can either one of us bring a car in duty-free? If so, how?
G

[Taffy]

Yes - sorry but you've been fed a porky-pie, the duty on car imports is extortionate, after everything it usually comes in at around 300% of the value of the car. The only duty free options are:
1. The Thai spouse reg'd the car - lived, licenced to drive, and used the car for 2yrs in the foreign country and then returned to Thailand claiming it as personal belongings (duty free)

2. Your friend has invested 40m TB into a BOI company, this gives him all kinds of privelages one being a tax free car

[gtcasap]

Thanx for your help. Anyone else with any other ideas?

[stonehouse]

I read that a farang imported his car "duty-free" and after 5 years he could sell it.

Does anyone know the proper procedure for bringing a car in duty free. I am moving to Thailand this fall on a retirement visa, my partner is starting a business in Thailand and has already formed a corporation. Can either one of us bring a car in duty-free? If so, how?
G

All imported cars are liable to duty, between around 100% - that's a guestimate - and 200%. If they haven't changed the rules, you may bring in your own car and keep it here for six months without paying tax. After that, you need to leave the country with it, or pay duty.

And in case you're wondering, exiting and re entering with the car has been tried in the past. It didn't work.

[gtcasap]

I have one additional question I need help with.

I was told that you cannot apply for a retirement visa until you have been in Thailand 45 days. If that is true, how quickly do you get one after applying? ( I will have deposited the required 800,000 baht in a Thai account 3 months before arrival)