Importing a car to Ireland? Get clear on VRT, potential tax charges & the steps to follow when moving or relocating, so nothing catches you out after arrival.
Relocating to Ireland and planning to bring your car with you? You’ve probably realised there’s more to it than shipping and registering. Between VRT, possible VAT or customs charges, Transfer of Residence relief, and a whole lot of deadlines, it’s easy to miss something important.
Get one of the details wrong – timing, paperwork, or eligibility – and things can stall quickly. But when you know what Revenue is looking for and have the right support behind you, the process is predictable and easy to manage.
We’ve answered the big questions that usually trip people up – like VRT, tax reliefs, and those strict deadlines – so you’re prepared before your car gets to the ferry.
Simply fill in the form below to download your free Car Importation Guide today
How Expat Taxes Help
Access to Our Car Import Guide
Importing a car into Ireland can be a confusing process, especially if you’re relocating from abroad. Our guide explains the key steps involved, including Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT), Transfer of Residence (TOR) relief, documentation requirements, and important deadlines, helping you understand what to expect before you begin.
Referral to Trusted Specialists
While we do not provide vehicle import, registration, or customs services, we can introduce you to experienced specialists who do. If you require assistance with TOR applications, VRT registration, customs procedures, vehicle inspections, or import logistics, we can point you in the right direction. Email us at info@expattaxes.ie if you require an introduction to one of our trusted external importation specialists.
Irish Tax Consultations
If your move to Ireland raises broader Irish tax questions, our team can help. We provide Irish tax consultations on matters such as tax residency, domicile, employment income, foreign income reporting, rental properties, investment taxation, and other personal tax issues that may arise as part of your relocation.
Helping You Find the Right Support
Our goal is to help make your move to Ireland as straightforward as possible. Whether that means providing practical information through our guide or connecting you with trusted professionals who specialise in vehicle imports, we’ll help you access the support you need.
Expat Taxes provides specialist support to help you understand your Irish tax position. Book a consultation with an expat tax adviser today and receive expert support for the tax issues relating to your move to Ireland.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vehicle Importation
Do I have to pay tax when bringing a car to Ireland?
Usually, yes. But the type of tax depends on where the vehicle is coming from.
Vehicles arriving from the EU are typically subject to Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT), while vehicles from outside the EU may also face Customs Duty and VAT.
What if I’m importing a van or commercial vehicle to Ireland?
This is where a lot of confusion comes up, especially for people bringing vans, pick-ups, or utility vehicles like a Toyota Hilux.
TOR relief does not apply to commercial vehicles. So if you’re moving to Ireland with:
- A van
- A pick-up
- A utility vehicle
- A truck
- Any vehicle registered as commercial
Any possible exemption would have to fall under Transfer of Business (TOB) rules instead.
This is a separate process with different requirements. TOB generally:
- Applies to businesses relocating to Ireland
- May cover commercial vehicles used in the business
- Requires proof of a genuine business transfer
- Needs Revenue approval
A lot of people assume that if they qualify for TOR, it covers any vehicle they own – but this is not the case. If the vehicle is classed as commercial for Irish tax purposes, TOR relief won’t apply.
What is Transfer of Residence (TOR) relief?
It’s a tax relief for people moving to Ireland permanently. If you qualify, it can remove the need to pay VRT (and in some cases VAT and Customs Duty) on a vehicle you already owned and used abroad.
How long do I have to register my car in Ireland?
You’ve got 30 days of its arrival in Ireland to register your vehicle. This is done through an appointment with the National Car Testing Service (NCTS).
Note: Missing the deadline can lead to penalties and may affect your ability to legally drive the vehicle in Ireland.
Can I drive my foreign-registered car in Ireland temporarily?
There are limited circumstances where temporary use is allowed, but once you become normally resident in Ireland, you’re generally expected to register the vehicle within the required timeframe.
If you’re unsure how the rules apply to your move, it’s best to check early to avoid issues.
Do I need Irish car insurance before registration?
Yes. To legally drive in Ireland, your vehicle must be covered by a valid Irish motor insurance policy. Many foreign policies are not accepted once you become a resident. Insurers will usually ask for:
- your driving history
- your No Claims Bonus (if available)
- vehicle details
- Irish address
Arranging insurance early can help avoid delays once your vehicle arrives.
You can also ask us a question directly here or reach out to our Client Service Manager, Grainne, for guidance at grainne@expattaxes.ie!
