The Government of India has amended its Import Policy to make the importing of vintage cars easier. Cars 50 years or older are are applicable for “free import”, which means that no import licence is required to bring these cars here, as per the notification signed by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) Santosh Kumar Sarangi dated February 7, 2025.
- These vintage cars can be imported by their actual users
- Resale of these vehicles is strictly prohibited
The over 50-year policy is on a rolling basis, which implies currently cars registered abroad up to 1975 are applicable for free import. Simply put, cars that are over 50 years old from their first registration after the initial sale are allowed. The 2025 notification extends the permitted import period from pre-1950 cars to 1975, covering an additional 25 years of automobile history. Iconic classics from brands like Mercedes, Jaguar, Porsche and American muscle cars are among the notable examples.
Who can import vintage cars?
Since an import licence is not required, “actual users” can import cars classified as Vintage Motor Vehicles under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. Notably, this relaxed import policy will be on a rolling year basis, the notification stated further.
Can you sell these vintage cars?
The DGFT has strictly prohibited any resale of imported vintage cars in the Indian domestic market. These cars must be for personal use and cannot be traded in any form whatsoever”. It further noted if dealers resell these vehicles, stricter conditions like a five-year no-sale rule could be introduced in the future.
Compliance with Indian laws
While their import has been eased, vintage vehicles intended for use on public roads must comply with Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. The policy is a significant move for vintage car collectors in India. It will also give rise to an increase in employment opportunities for restorers.
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