What you need to know about importing a vehicle into Ireland

Shipping a vehicle to Ireland can be a fairly complicated – and costly – process to ensure compliance with regulations and requirements.

What is NCT Vehicle inspection?

Imported vehicles will need to have a valid NCT and for this they need to undergo inspection by the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) to ensure they meet Irish safety and emissions standards. Visit www.ncts.ie

If your car passes, the NCTS will issue a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), which is required for registration.

Vehicle registration tax for importing into Ireland

Most vehicles imported into Ireland are subject to Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT), which is based on the Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) of the vehicle, including all taxes and charges applicable in the country of origin.

You will need to calculate the VRT payable before importing the vehicle, and payment is required upon registration. You can get an estimate of this amount payable from the Revenue Vehicle Registration Online Enquiry System. Learn more about the VRT on the Revenue Irish Tax and Customs website.

It is possible to claim an exemption from VRT. In order to qualify, you must have lived outside Ireland at least 185 days per year before moving to Ireland. You must also be the owner of the vehicle and have owned and used the vehicle outside of Ireland for at least six months before moving to Ireland.

What customs duties to expect when importing a car to Ireland

If importing a vehicle from outside the EU, customs duties may apply. Ensure you’re aware of any additional costs associated with importing from non-EU countries.

You can import your vehicle free of taxes and duties, if you qualify under the TOR requirements ( Transfer of Residence). This is anyone who has owned a vehicle (non Commercial, which can also be imported under Transfer of Business tax & duty free) for a period of six months and uses the vehicle during that period, with a minimum of 6,000 kilometres on the clock, has lived abroad for minimum of 12 months, qualifies to import the vehicle without taxes and duties. It’s a fairly straightforward procedure which the team will walk you through.

How to register an imported vehicle in Ireland

Once you have paid the VRT and obtained the necessary documentation, you can register the vehicle with the National Vehicle and Driver File (NVDF), operated by the Department of Transport. You’ll then need to complete the registration process, pay the registration fee, and obtain registration plates for the vehicle.

Motor tax for vehicle imports

The Irish government imposes motor tax on all vehicles. Once your car has been registered, you will receive the Form RF100 Motor Tax Application, which you will need to complete in order to pay the required motor tax. You can pay your motor tax three, six, or 12 monthly, either online or at a Motor Tax Office. You will receive a motor tax disk to display on the windscreen of your vehicle. Renewal reminders will be sent to you.

Insuring your imported vehicle in Ireland

Before driving the vehicle on Irish roads, you must have valid insurance coverage. Ensure you obtain this insurance from a licensed insurer in Ireland. Vehicles imported from outside the EU may be subject to premium loadings so do your research ahead of time.

Importing a vehicle can be complex, especially if it’s your first time. NexVentur has partnered with relocation specialists RAS Removals Group to take the stress out of the shipping process. Book a relocation consultation with our team now.

Next Steps

NexVentur is committed to assisting Irish expats return home. Our suite of services helps you find a job, plus get you settled with rental accommodation, flights, partner visas if needed, insurance, Irish mortgages and more…

Get started with a relocation consultation:

As recruitment and relocation specialists, our services include:

• Recruitment in Ireland and Australia
• Arranging your visas
• Assisting with professional registrations
• Flights with extra baggage, priority boarding and lounge access
• Setting up your overseas bank account
• Money transfer
• Irish mortgages
• Assisting with move logistics
• Relocation advice – all members of our team have relocated at least once in our lives, so we know how it feels and the challenges you face.
• Book a consultation with our team and let’s help you get started on your next adventure.