Transferring a car from Ontario to Quebec

[Reader Questions]

Hello,

I am thinking of buying a car in Ontario and live in Quebec. What are the SAAQ rules on this purchase. I'm guessing I must pay the Ontario sales tax and GST and then possibly the QST once here in Quebec.

Please advise
Thanks

[The General]

Although late, the answer to this question is fairly simple.

You may purchase a car in Ontario and drive it back to Quebec with a "transit" on your rear window (even though in Ontario, they require that it be installed up front). The moment you get home or as soon as possible, make an appointment with a SAAQ inspection centre; if the vehicle is not inspected, you will not be able to plate it. Once it passes, you may register the car in your name in Quebec by paying the QC provincial sales tax based on the sale price or the book value.

Now, if you purchased the car from a dealership in Ontario and paid the Ontario PST, you may apply for a tax reimbursement from the Ontario government (documents available online).

[Mat]

Now that's what I call an answer. Good to have you back General!