Question 1

What taxes do I pay when importing a car from Great Britain?

Accepted Answer

Three possible charges: customs duty (10% of the customs value - almost always due on used cars since Brexit), VAT at 23% on the price plus transport plus customs, and VRT based on the car's Irish market value and emissions. Customs and VAT are handled at import; VRT is paid at the NCTS centre.

Question 2

Is Northern Ireland cheaper than Great Britain?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes. Cars properly imported into Northern Ireland (or first registered there) avoid the 10% customs duty, and used cars that spent reasonable time in private NI ownership avoid VAT too. That is why many Irish buyers shop in NI first - but insist on proof of the car's customs status.

Question 3

What does it cost to import a car from Japan?

Accepted Answer

Customs duty of 10%, VAT at 23% (on price + shipping + duty) and VRT. Shipping runs roughly €1,500–€3,000 and takes 4–8 weeks. Japanese cars often have low mileage and strong specs, which can offset the extra charges - check the VRT first, since the OMSP drives the biggest cost.

Question 4

Do I pay VAT on a used car from the EU?

Accepted Answer

No - as long as it is genuinely used: older than 6 months AND more than 6,000 km on the clock. 'New' cars by that definition are charged Irish VAT even if you paid VAT abroad (you can reclaim the foreign VAT).

The full cost of importing a car

Import cost questions