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Low car prices in Paraguay attract Brazilians, but use in Brazil depends on temporary admission, mandatory documents, a 180-day period, and risk of seizure in case of irregularity
An article from UOL drew attention. Cars in Paraguay have caught the attention of Brazilians due to prices much lower than those in Brazil, with examples ranging from a 2008 Corolla advertised for R$ 6,000 to a 2023 Maserati Levante GT-Hybrid for R$ 490,000. Despite the difference, using these vehicles in Brazilian territory depends on specific rules and may lead to seizure.
Why cars in Paraguay cost less
The price difference is linked to the Paraguayan automotive market model. The country does not have a local automotive industry and operates with more permissive imports, both for new and used vehicles.
With taxes considered extremely low, the prices become more attractive to Brazilian consumers.
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In the case of brand-new vehicles, the discounts can be even greater when compared to the prices in Brazil.
One of the examples cited is a 2008 Corolla advertised for R$ 6,000. In another case, an ad was found for a 2023 Maserati Levante GT-Hybrid, with 5,000 km, for R$ 490,000.
The specialist in luxury car evaluations and negotiations Adalmo Vaz states that the same model does not sell for less than R$ 650,000 in Brazil. The difference, in this case, amounts to about R$ 160,000.
Purchase is possible, but use in Brazil has rules
The main question for Brazilians interested in these vehicles is whether it is allowed to buy a car in Paraguay and drive it in Brazil. The answer depends on the vehicle’s status and the intended use.
If the car is brand new and has not yet been registered, regularization in Brazil is possible as an independent import.
However, the taxes levied make the vehicle more expensive than if it were purchased directly in the Brazilian market.
When the car is already registered in Paraguay, whether new or used, driving in Brazil falls under a different set of rules.
In these cases, the vehicle can cross the border under the temporary admission regime, as a tourist vehicle.
Documents required at the border entry
According to Rodrigo Malheiros, professor, legal consultant, and co-owner of Marmo&Malheiros Advogados, the regime is processed immediately at the border.
For clearance, it is necessary to present a property document issued in Paraguay, up-to-date Paraguayan license plate and registration, as well as the Green Card Insurance.
Brazilian CNH or recognized Paraguayan license and ID or passport are also required. Upon entry, the vehicle must be registered via e-DBV, the Traveler’s Goods Declaration, or by STI-Mobile, the International Transit System.
Temporary admission allows the vehicle to circulate in Brazil for up to 180 days. The rule is based on Contran Resolution 933/2022, IN RFB 1.989/2020, and Mercosul GMC 035/2002.
Inspection can seize irregular vehicle
After the 180-day period, the car needs to return to Paraguay. The expert states that the rules no longer limit the number of times the vehicle can return to Brazil, as long as there is no misuse.
At the border, the inspection checks the documentation, insurance, basic safety conditions of the car, RENAVAM registration, and the driver’s criminal record. PRF and Customs also access RENAVAM in real-time.
During a checkpoint, agents can check the accumulated days of circulation. If the period is expired, the car can be seized. It is also prohibited to use the vehicle for commercial purposes, sell or transfer the car within Brazil.
This article was prepared based on information from UOL Carros, with data, numbers, and statements preserved as per the consulted material.
