Importing a car from the UK to Ireland involves several steps, including registration, customs duties, and taxes. Here's a guide to help you through the process:
1. Purchase and Prepare the Car for Export
Check car eligibility: Ensure the car meets Irish roadworthiness standards, including left-hand drive and emission regulations.
Get a Vehicle Purchase Invoice: This document proves the car was purchased in the UK.
2. Arrange Transport
You can either drive the car to Ireland or use a professional transport company.
If driving, ensure you have UK insurance, tax, and an MOT certificate (if applicable).
3. Customs and Declaration
Notify UK Customs: You must inform UK authorities if you're permanently exporting the car.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Check: Ensure the VIN is available and matches the paperwork.
Complete the Customs Declaration: Use the Irish Revenue's Automated Import System (AIS) to declare the car.
4. Pay VAT and Duty (if applicable)
Value-Added Tax (VAT): VAT is applicable for cars that are less than 6 months old or have less than 6,000 km. This is usually 23% of the purchase price.
Customs Duty: Since Brexit, a 10% duty may apply to cars imported from the UK, depending on their origin (non-EU-manufactured cars).
If you are moving from the UK to Ireland, you may be exempt from VAT and duty under the Transfer of Residence (TOR) relief.
5. Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT)
Once in Ireland, you'll need to register the car with the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) within 30 days.
Book an inspection with the NCTS to calculate the VRT, which is based on the car’s Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) and CO2 emissions. You can get an estimate from the Revenue's VRT calculator.
Pay the VRT on the day of the inspection.
6. Get Irish Registration Plates
After paying the VRT, you'll receive an Irish registration number.
Purchase Irish plates and replace the UK plates.
7. Insurance
You’ll need to arrange car insurance with an Irish insurance provider.
Provide your no-claims bonus (NCB) from the UK to avail of discounts.
8. Roadworthiness (NCT) and Tax
Cars older than four years will need a National Car Test (NCT).
Apply for motor tax through your local motor tax office or online via the Irish government’s portal.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure the smooth import of your car from the UK to Ireland.
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