This article offers the reader useful information about how to apply for a Foreign Vehicle Permit to use a vehicle that is registered in a foreign country.
If you are planning to import and drive a foreign registered vehicle in Thailand, you will need to apply for a Foreign Vehicle Permit (FVP).
Types Of Vehicle
The following vehicles can be imported:
- Passenger vehicle (up to 9-seater)
- Pick up truck not exceeding 3,500kg
- Motorcycle
If, for example, you are planning a motorcycle journey through Thailand from the southern border leaving at one of the northern borders and travelling through Asia, you would have a period of 60 days in which to pass through Thailand using the FVP.
Import Duty
There may be duty to be paid when you import a private vehicle. This is something for an experienced Thai lawyer to help you with. If you are temporarily importing the vehicle, you won’t have to pay duty, but there may be other costs.
Documents Required
The documents you need when applying for a FVP includes:
- Personal ID – Thai ID card or foreign passport
- Business registration (if applicable)
- Power of Attorney – If a lawyer is acting on your behalf.
- Vehicle inspection certificate
If you are running a tourism-related business and you are looking for Thailand tourism business license lawyer, search online for a leading Thai law firm that deals with company registration.
Traveller Documentation
The people who are travelling in the vehicle would need to produce the following:
- Photocopies of passport and valid visa
- Letter of consent if vehicle owner is not travelling
- Third-party insurance that covers personal injury
The process of applying for a FVP is quite complex and best done using an experienced Thai lawyer, who can tell you what you need to prepare and with their help, your application will be successful.
Vehicle Insurance
Of course, the vehicle must have at least third-party insurance and the certificate must be included in the FVP application. Check also that the policy expiry date is not looming, otherwise you will have to renew the policy. Your lawyer will give you a list of paperwork that is required, ensuring that you don’t overlook anything.
FVP Validity
The duration of any organised tour must not exceed 30 days and each vehicle has an annual quota of 60 days. Talk to an experienced Thai lawyer about applying for the FVP, and they can guide you through the process.
Tourism Related Vehicles
If your business involves using foreign registered vehicles to transport tourists around Thailand and you wish to apply for a FVP, search with Google for a leading Thai law firm that can help you to prepare the necessary documentation.
Setting Up A Private Limited Company
If you are planning to set up your own business in Thailand, a private limited company would probably be the best option, as this limits your liability, plus a limited company is a trading entity. If you would like some professional help with setting up a business in Thailand, talk to a leading Thai law firm, who can also help you obtain a wide range of special business licenses, including FVP and IDP (International Driving Permit).
It can be problematic to communicate with Thai government officials, which is another reason to use the services of a Thai lawyer.