Trinbagonians Returning Home Here’s How to Access Tax Concessions

December 9th, 2024

The Caribbean region has an extremely high migration rate, and Trinidad and Tobago is no exception. Four years ago, the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that 29% of Trinbagonians were living abroad. Despite this high migration rate, many nationals who have spent considerable time living abroad often choose to return to their homeland. One of the benefits often overlooked by returning nationals is the tax concessions on motor vehicles.

The decision to grant these concessions was taken over thirty years ago by the then government to encourage nationals to return home. Far from being limited to vehicles, these concessions also extend to the importation of household goods and effects and apply to the following groups: diplomats, corporations, charitable organisations, sporting bodies, and religious organisations.

For returning nationals who wish to import a vehicle, it’s essential to understand and meet the specific stipulations in order to benefit from the tax concessions. Firstly, you must have spent a minimum of five consecutive years living abroad, which can be proven through employment records or documentation of time aboard in an official passport. You must also be over 18 years of age, a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, or a former citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, or the spouse of a citizen or former citizen. It’s also important to declare your intention to stay in Trinidad and Tobago.

Each returning individual is entitled to tax and duty waivers on one vehicle and must ensure that the vehicle is imported within six months before or after their return to the country. Understanding and meeting these eligibility criteria is crucial for those considering this option.  To benefit from these tax and duty waivers, interested parties must ensure that they hire a registered Customs Broker to complete the required documentation.

A list of registered Brokers can be found here: https://info.ttbizlink.gov.tt/customs-brokers-list. Once the forms (C82 or C84) have been completed, it’s important to follow the next step, which is to apply for duty relief. This involves submitting a letter to the Comptroller of Customs, listing the items you wish to import and stating why you qualify for the tax exemptions. Following this step-by-step process is important and will provide the necessary guidance and support for those seeking to benefit from these concessions. To learn more about the tax and duty exemptions available, visit:

By Paul Hadden