The Ministry of Economy and Commerce of Kyrgyzstan has confirmed that there will be no re-legalization of cars with foreign plates. This statement was made against the backdrop of discussions about the possibility of resuming such a campaign in society.
It should be noted that many cars with foreign plates were imported into the country through so-called "gray schemes," which imply the absence of customs declaration and non-payment of the required taxes in accordance with the legislation of the Eurasian Economic Union and Kyrgyzstan. In contrast, citizens who import cars officially usually pay about $1800 in customs duties and around $400 for initial registration.
The previously conducted legalization was a one-time and exceptional measure.
This campaign was initiated by the decree of the President of Kyrgyzstan dated December 31, 2024, No. 398, and took place from April 1 to September 30, 2025. The main goal was to reduce the share of the shadow economy, create transparency in the turnover of vehicles, and enhance road safety.
According to the ministry, during this campaign, over 30,000 vehicles were legalized, which helped stop illegal imports and eliminate the "gray" market, as well as ensure transparency in the use of vehicles.
The agency emphasized that re-legalization of cars imported with violations would violate the principles of equality and fairness, putting those who comply with the law at a disadvantage.
The plan for re-legalization was not initially provided.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Economy reminded that cars registered in EAEU countries — Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia — can be deregistered in the country of registration and registered in Kyrgyzstan in the established manner. However, it should be noted that the registration of cars with right-hand drive is prohibited in the country.
“There are no plans or considerations for a repeat campaign for the legalization of vehicles registered outside the country,” the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of Kyrgyzstan added.
