Question 1

How is VRT calculated on a Japanese import?

Accepted Answer

Exactly like any other import: a CO2-based percentage of the Open Market Selling Price plus the NOx levy. Revenue identifies Japanese cars by their model code (for example DAA-NHP10 for a Toyota Aqua) - the code is on the export certificate, the auction sheet and in the chassis number before the dash.

Question 2

Where do I find the Japanese model code?

Accepted Answer

Three places: the export (deregistration) certificate, the auction sheet, and the chassis number itself - everything before the dash (NHP10-2345678 → NHP10). The full code with the emissions prefix (DAA-, DBA-, 6AA-) is on the certificate.

Question 3

What are the total costs from Japan?

Accepted Answer

Car price at auction + agent fee + shipping (€1,500–€3,000, 4–8 weeks) + customs duty 10% + VAT 23% (on price + shipping + duty) + VRT + NCTS registration. Despite the extra charges, low-mileage Japanese cars often remain competitive.

Question 4

What's the NOx figure for Japanese cars?

Accepted Answer

Japanese emissions certificates state NOx differently from European ones. For popular hybrids like the Aqua and Prius the figure is very low (single-digit mg/km), which keeps the NOx levy small. Bring the export certificate to the NCTS inspection as evidence - otherwise the flat maximum applies.

Question 5

Does the 4-year NCT rule apply to Japanese imports?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cars 4 years and older must pass an NCT after registration. Japan's own shaken inspection history is not recognised, but well-maintained JDM cars generally pass without trouble.

Item	Typical amount
Auction price + agent fee	market price + ¥50k–100k
Shipping (RoRo, 4–8 weeks)	€1,500–€3,000
Customs duty	10% of price + shipping
VAT	23% of price + shipping + duty
VRT	CO2 % of Irish OMSP + NOx levy
NCT (cars 4+ years)	€55

Importing a car from Japan to Ireland

The model code is everything

Costs on the Japan route

Japanese import questions