Option A — VAT Qualifying Vehicle (Recommended for Most Buyers)

This is the most popular route for buyers who are not relocating but simply want to purchase a quality UK car and bring it to Cyprus. Buying a VAT-qualifying vehicle means you purchase the car from the UK without paying UK VAT (20%), then pay only Cypriot VAT (19%) at the point of import — avoiding any risk of double taxation.

Step 1: Consultation — Contact us to discuss your requirements, budget, and ideal specification. We identify suitable VAT-qualifying vehicles and present options.

Step 2: Vehicle Purchase — We source and secure the vehicle on your behalf. As a VAT-qualifying export, UK VAT is removed from the sale price, giving you a lower purchase price.

Step 3: Export Documentation — We prepare your V5C logbook, export certificate, and proof of origin documentation. UK-origin vehicles qualify for 0% import duty into Cyprus under the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

Step 4: Shipping to Cyprus — Your vehicle is shipped via Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) or container service to Limassol port. Transit time is typically 10–21 days depending on the service selected.

Step 5: Cyprus Customs Clearance — Your appointed customs agent in Cyprus presents the vehicle and documentation at Limassol. Cyprus VAT at 19% is calculated on the combined vehicle value, shipping cost, and any applicable duty, then collected before release.

Step 6: Registration with the RTD — You register the vehicle with the Cyprus Road Transport Department (RTD). This includes a roadworthiness inspection (approx. €40) and registration fee (approx. €150). Annual circulation tax is then applied based on CO2 emissions and fuel type.

Option B — Transfer of Residence Exemption

If you are permanently relocating from the UK to Cyprus, you may be eligible to import one vehicle duty-free and VAT-free under the Transfer of Residence exemption. This relief comes with strict conditions and must be arranged before or shortly after your move.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility — You must have owned and used the vehicle in the UK for a minimum of six months prior to relocation, and you must import it within 12 months of transferring your permanent residence to Cyprus.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documentation — Prepare evidence of UK residency (utility bills, tax returns), Cyprus residency (property contracts, employment), vehicle purchase records, and proof the vehicle is in free circulation in the UK.

Step 3: Arrange Shipping — Ship the vehicle to Limassol as above. Retain all shipping documentation as this is required for the customs exemption claim.

Step 4: Apply at Cyprus Customs — Your customs agent presents the exemption claim at Limassol. You vehicle must be imported within 12 months of your move. If approved, the vehicle is released without payment of import duty or VAT.

Step 5: Register and Note Restrictions — Register with the RTD as normal. Note: the vehicle can be any age. It cannot be sold, lent, pledged, or transferred to another party for three years following import under this exemption.

The table below summarises the key differences to help you determine which route applies to your situation.

"Buying a VAT-qualifying vehicle from us means you pay VAT once — in Cyprus at 19% — rather than potentially absorbing irrecoverable UK VAT into your purchase price."

The import duty rate applied to your vehicle depends on its country of origin — where it was manufactured, not where it was registered.

• UK-origin vehicles (manufactured in the UK): 0% import duty under the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). A valid Certificate of Origin or manufacturer proof of origin is required.

• Non-UK origin passenger cars (e.g., manufactured in Japan, Germany, or the USA but registered in the UK): 10% import duty applies, calculated on the customs value.

• Commercial vehicles: duty rates of 10%–22% depending on vehicle type and engine size.

• Motorcycles: 8% (up to 250cc) or 6% (over 250cc).

For most modern vehicles sourced from the UK, it is important to verify the country of manufacture before assuming 0% duty applies. Japanese-manufactured vehicles — such as many Toyota, Honda, and Nissan models — do not qualify for TCA zero-duty treatment and will attract 10% duty. We advise on origin status for every vehicle we source.

Note: Import duty rates, VAT percentages, registration fees, and exemption conditions are correct at time of writing but are subject to change. Always verify current rates with your Cyprus customs agent before committing to a purchase.