Foreign Licence Plates

racerx · January 21, 2011

I have started to see an increase in autos driving around town with foreign plates. I wonder what permits they are running on? Is it away to avoid taxes in Sri Lanka. Do you have to eventually export the car out of Sri Lanka? Ive seen a newer Range Rover, a huge Mercedes CL. I think they are british plates.

The Don · January 21, 2011

These could be vehicles bought to SL on temporary permits by foreigners (or expats) on the basis they will be taken back when they return back to their country.

Either that or they are vehicles awaiting registration.

fuzzo · January 21, 2011

those are here on carnet. they need to be sent back with the owner or can be retained here by paying the applicable duties.

SeanD · January 21, 2011

those are here on carnet. they need to be sent back with the owner or can be retained here by paying the applicable duties.

Care to expand on what Carnet is?

Incidentally, none of such cars I've seen are being driven by foreigners. Unless it's people who've migrated from SL who have some tendency to bring their car with them when on holiday

JohnGalt · January 21, 2011

those are here on carnet. they need to be sent back with the owner or can be retained here by paying the applicable duties.

If anyone is wondering what "carnet" is,

"Carnets are “Merchandise Passports.” They are international customs documents that simplify customs procedures for the temporary importation of various types of goods."

http://www.uscib.org/index.asp?documentID=1843