Importing Cars from UK to Malta

Fully managed import service, handling every stage of the process from purchasing your car in the UK to shipping it safely to Malta.

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Expert Car Importing UK to Malta

Enjoy the reassurance of a fully managed import service, from purchase to shipping. Whether you’re looking for a prestige car, a family vehicle, or a commercial van, we make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free.

Our export service includes:

  • Expert UK vehicle purchasing

  • VAT-free purchasing

  • Insured transport within the UK

  • Secure vehicle shipping to Malta

  • Full support with documentation and logistics

Salesman on the phone

Expert UK Car Purchasing

Buying the right car in the UK can be challenging without local expertise. That’s where we add real value.

We provide access to the entire UK vehicle market, including

Main dealerships ·  Trade-only platforms · Lease and fleet vehicles · Exclusive auction stock

Our sourcing service ensures:

  • Competitive pricing

  • Verified vehicle history (HPI checks, service records, MOT)

  • High-quality, vehicles

  • Access to rare or high-spec models

VAT Free Car Imports to Malta

VAT refund image

One of the biggest advantages of importing a car from the UK is the ability to purchase vehicles VAT-free, saving up to 20% on the purchase price.

When a car is exported permanently from the UK, it can often be sold without UK VAT. We manage this process on your behalf so you can benefit from the discount in your purchase price.

Key benefits include:

  • Pay the net export price (excluding UK VAT of 20%)

  • Avoid reclaim delays with a streamlined process

  • Keeps your money in you bank with VAT discounted from your purchase price.

  • Full compliance with UK export regulations

It’s important to note that vehicles imported into Malta may still be subject to:

  • Maltese VAT (currently 18%)

  • Import duty (depending on vehicle origin)

Registration tax based on emissions and value

Exemptions may apply, such as when relocating to Malta or importing a personally owned vehicle. Our team can guide you through these rules to help you minimise costs wherever possible.

Car importing UK to Malta in 5 steps

container ship ariel view

Every step handled professionally for complete peace of mind.

Our expert team will carefully manage your car’s journey from purchase to delivery.

  • Choose your ideal car from across the UK including dealerships, trade networks and auctions.

  • We secure the vehicle, run background checks and sell it to you VAT free.

  • Your vehicle is safely transported from its location in the UK to our office and then onwards to the port ready to export.

  • We manage your export, ensuring all documentation is correctly prepared. Secure shipping arranged via RoRo or container, depending on your needs and budget.

  • Once your car arrives in Malta, you complete customs clearance (if required), pay applicable taxes, and register the vehicle.

Transport of your car UK to Malta

New Cars on a Transporter

Once purchased, we arrange transport within the UK to the export port.

Before export, we ensure:

  • Preparation of all required documentation

  • Secure handling throughout transit

We regularly share updates of your car’s progress through it’s journey and all key documentation is shared via DHL to ensure you have everything you need to import it into Malta.

We manage key export documents required

  • Verifies proof of UK ownership, car vin number and spec

  • Roadworthiness certificate which is a mandatory annual examination for cars over 3 years old.

  • Confirming your purchase of your car and the price paid. Essential for customs clearance and VAT processing.

  • Legally required contract acting as shipment receipt and authorising the transfer of ownership from the purchaser to the consignee.

  • Item description

Shipping, Import Duties, VAT & VRT

We will connect you to our customs clearing partners who will guide you through the customs clearing process.

Car registration plates Malta

  • Shipping typically takes around 10–14 days from the UK to Malta, depending on schedules and routes.

    Our shipping service includes; vessel booking, coordination and comprehensive marine insurance

    Upon arrival in Malta, your vehicle is ready for customs clearance and registration, with support available if needed.

  • Imports from the UK are subject to 18% VAT on registration in Malta.

    If you are moving to Malta permanently and have owned the vehicle for at least 6 months, you may be exempt from paying VAT and import duty. You must apply for this exemption and still pay the registration tax.

  • Customs duty of 10% is applied on the CIF value of your vehicle.

  • Vehicle must pass a Malta VRT inspection if it is over 4 years old or has more than 160,000 km

  • All imported vehicles must pay a registration tax to Transport Malta, which is based on emissions and vehicle value.

FAQs

  • In many cases, yes. The UK offers lower vehicle prices and a wider selection, and VAT-free purchasing can further reduce costs.

  • Typically, yes. Maltese VAT (18%) and possible import duties apply unless you qualify for exemptions.

    • Shipping: 2 weeks

    • Full process: typically 3–5 weeks from purchase to arrival

    • V5 registration document

    • Original purchase invoice

    • Bill of Lading

    • Certificate of Conformity (if applicable)

  • You must register the vehicle within 30 days of arrival.

  • Yes, usually under a temporary permit during the registration period.

    • Import duty (if applicable)

    • Maltese VAT

    • Registration tax (based on CO₂ emissions)

    • Inspection and administrative fees

Ready to Import a UK Car to Malta?

Road on the edge of an island heading into the Sunset

To get started, find an example of a car you have in mind and send it to us in the form. We’ll be in touch with a firm quote and to chat through your best import options.