How to Nationalize a Car in Panama? Step-by-Step Guide 2025

If you’re thinking about bringing a vehicle from abroad, it’s essential to know how to nationalize a car in Panama to avoid legal issues and drive without problems. In this blog, we explain step by step how to do it in 2025, what documents you’ll need, and how much the process may cost.

What Does It Mean to Nationalize a Car in Panama?

Nationalizing a car in Panama means submitting an official Import Declaration to the National Customs Authority and paying the required taxes once the vehicle arrives in the country. After that, you must legally register the imported car, meeting the requirements of the DIJ, the Municipality, and the ATTT so it can be legally driven in Panama.

This process is mandatory if:

• You imported a vehicle from another country.
• You moved to Panama and brought your car.
• You bought a used vehicle that hasn’t yet been nationalized.

Step 1: Hire a Customs Broker

The first step is to hire a licensed customs broker who will guide you through the entire nationalization process.

What does the customs broker do?

1. Receives and reviews the necessary documents:

• Vehicle invoice
• Title of ownership
• Bill of Lading (BL)
• Technical specifications of the vehicle

2. Prepares the pre-declaration using the vehicle’s data and declared values.
3. Coordinates with the shipping line via email to manage:

• Local charges
• Shipment availability
• Container release

Step 2: Valuation Request

When the shipment arrives in Panama, the customs broker submits a valuation request to the Valuation Department of the National Customs Authority.

🔍 This entity assesses whether the declared value of the vehicle is acceptable.

• If approved, the process continues.
• If not, Customs assigns an official value to the vehicle. The broker updates the declaration with this amount if the vehicle owner agrees. Otherwise, the owner must present proof of payment and market value references.

Step 3: Tax Payment and Clearance

Once the value is approved, the customs broker proceeds to:

1. Pay the applicable taxes, which may include:

• Selective Consumption Tax (15%–25%)
• VAT (ITBMS – 7%)
• Administrative fees

2. Prepare the final documentation
3. Coordinate the release of the container from the port

Step 4: Technical Inspection and License Plates

• The vehicle must be inspected by the DIJ.
• Register the vehicle.
• Obtain your official license plates.

Step 5: Mandatory Insurance

To drive legally, you must purchase third-party liability insurance, as required by Panamanian law.

Now that you know how to nationalize a car in Panama, it will be much easier to organize your process. Be sure to work with a trusted customs broker and keep all your documents in order. Following each step will help you avoid fines and unnecessary delays.

Need advice for your customs procedures? Contact us.