Can a non-resident buy a car in BC?

Purchasing a Vehicle in British Columbia as a Non-Resident

As a non-resident of British Columbia (BC), you can legally purchase a vehicle within the province. However, it’s essential to understand the specific regulations and requirements that apply to non-resident buyers.

Eligibility:

Non-residents who hold a valid passport and meet the following criteria are eligible to purchase a vehicle in BC:

• Be in BC on a temporary basis (e.g., work, study, vacation)
• Intend to use the vehicle in BC for a limited period (generally up to 12 months)

Procedure:

To purchase a vehicle as a non-resident:

1. Contact a Dealership or Private Seller: Locate and negotiate the purchase of a vehicle that meets your needs.
2. Obtain Insurance: Purchase temporary insurance coverage that covers you in BC for the duration of your stay.
3. Register the Vehicle: Visit an Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) office to register the vehicle. You will need to provide:
   • Proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale or purchase contract)
   • Proof of insurance
   • Your passport and other identification documents

Requirements for Registration:

Non-residents must comply with the following requirements for vehicle registration:

• Pay the applicable registration fees and taxes
• Provide a BC address (e.g., temporary residence or business address)
• Show proof of ability to pay for parking tickets and other fines (e.g., credit card or bank statement)

Duration of Registration:

Your vehicle registration will be valid for a maximum of 12 months. If you intend to stay in BC beyond this period, you may need to apply for a resident registration.

Additional Considerations:

• Provincial Sales Tax (PST): Non-residents are exempt from paying PST on vehicles purchased in BC if they remove the vehicle from the province within 30 days.
• Export Restrictions: If you plan to export the vehicle outside of Canada, you will need to obtain an export permit from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

By following these regulations and requirements, non-residents can purchase a vehicle in BC and legally drive it for the duration of their stay. It’s important to regularly check with ICBC for any updates or changes to non-resident vehicle registration guidelines.