How to Import a VAT Qualifying Car from the UK to Ireland
Save Big. Drive Smarter. Import Your VAT Qualifying Car Today
If you’re thinking about importing a car from the UK to Ireland, you’re already on the right track for some serious savings — especially when you go for a VAT qualifying vehicle.
But we get it: if you’ve never done it before, the process can seem a bit daunting.
Don't worry — we've helped hundreds of people do exactly this, and we’ll walk you through it step-by-step.
Let’s get you started!
Why Import a VAT Qualifying Car from the UK?
Choosing a VAT qualifying car brings some real advantages:
Save money: You avoid paying VAT twice — once in the UK, and again here in Ireland.
Bigger choice: The UK market has a far wider range of high-quality cars.
Lower overall costs: Including the car, transport, and registration.
Potential VRT savings: Depending on emissions and car type.
The key is knowing the right steps — and that’s exactly what we’re here to help you with.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Import a VAT Qualifying Car to Ireland
The 7 simple steps to import a VAT qualifying car from the UK to Ireland
Need help importing your car?
Talk to our VAT experts today — we’ll guide you through it, step-by-step.
Step 1: Find a Genuine VAT Qualifying Car
What Makes a Car VAT Qualifying?
First things first: not every car for sale in the UK is VAT qualifying.
A VAT qualifying car means:
It was bought new with VAT paid by the original owner.
It's now being sold by a VAT-registered seller.
It’s not been sold under the Margin Scheme (where VAT can’t be reclaimed).
✅ What you should ask for:
A full VAT invoice (showing the price and VAT separately).
Proof the seller is VAT registered.
Pro tip: At vatqualifyingcar.com, we source fully verified VAT qualifying cars, so you can skip the guesswork.
Step 2: Secure the Purchase with the right paperwork
Secure the purchase
Finalise pricing and paperwork
Once you’ve found the car you love:
Confirm in writing that it’s VAT qualifying. A quick email or invoice note will do.
Agree the price — check whether VAT is included or if it’s zero-rated for export.
Get your invoice sorted: Make sure it includes:
Seller’s VAT number
Vehicle details (make, model, VIN, reg)
VAT amount breakdown
This paperwork is your best friend later when dealing with Revenue.
Step 3: Arrange Transport to Ireland
Transport Options: Professional vs. Self-Drive
Which option suits you best?
There are two options:
Use a professional transport company (highly recommended).
Drive it back yourself (if you're confident with export rules and insurance).
Whichever way you choose, keep proof that the car left the UK — it’s essential if the VAT is zero-rated at purchase.
Tip: We can help arrange secure, insured transport directly to your door.
Step 4: Notify Revenue (Irish Tax Authorities)
Once your car arrives:
Log into ROS (Revenue Online Service).
Register the car for Vehicle Import Notification (VIN).
Upload your proof of purchase and proof of transport.
📅 You’ll need to do this within 7 days of the car arriving — so don’t delay!
Step 5: Pay Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT)
Documents You Need for VRT Registration
Getting the details right
Book an inspection appointment at an NCT centre.
Bring your documents:
UK logbook (V5C)
VAT invoice
Proof of payment
Proof of transport
Your own ID and proof of address
Revenue will calculate VRT based on:
Open Market Selling Price (OMSP)
CO2 emissions
Vehicle age
You’ll pay the VRT either during or shortly after the inspection.
Step 6: Confirm VAT-Free Import Status
If you’ve followed all the steps properly, good news:
✅ You won’t need to pay VAT again in Ireland.
Revenue will review your paperwork and confirm that everything checks out.
Important: If you miss the VAT qualifying requirements, you could be hit with 23% VAT — so it’s crucial to get the paperwork right.
Step 7: Register Your Car and Get Irish Plates
Getting your new plates
Get ready to roll.
Once VRT is paid:
Revenue will issue your Vehicle Registration Certificate.
You’ll get your shiny new Irish plates.
Time to sort insurance, tax, and you're ready to hit the road!
Quick tip: If your car is more than 4 years old, it’ll need an NCT too.
FAQs About Importing VAT Qualifying Cars to Ireland
What exactly is a VAT qualifying car?
It’s a car where VAT was originally paid and can still be reclaimed. It must be sold by a VAT-registered dealer with the proper invoice.
Can private individuals reclaim VAT?
No. But if the seller zero-rates it for export, you won’t have to pay VAT again when importing it.
Do I still have to pay VRT?
Yes — VAT and VRT are two separate charges. VRT depends on the car’s value and emissions.
What about Northern Ireland?
Different rules may apply. It’s worth getting advice before importing from NI.
How long does the whole import process take?
Usually between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on transport times and VRT appointment availability.
Ready to Import Your VAT Qualifying Car?
At vatqualifyingcar.com, we’ve been helping Irish buyers import VAT qualifying cars for years — saving them thousands in the process.
Here’s what we offer:
100% guaranteed VAT qualifying stock
Full transport and paperwork service
VRT and Revenue advice included
Got questions?
Get a free import consultation today — no pressure, just friendly advice.
