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Importing a car to Cyprus

Importing a car to Cyprus: Everything you need to know

Do you want to import your own car into Cyprus or purchase a car from abroad? Then it is essential to know the rules, taxes, and costs in advance.

Cyprus has specific import rules that differ from most other EU countries, especially for imports from the United Kingdom and Japan.

On this page, you will find a complete guide to the Cyprus car import policy, import taxes (duty & VAT), the exemption scheme for new residents, and the steps for registration.

Cyprus-Consult guides you step by step through the entire import process.

Why import a car to Cyprus?

Many expats (Belgians, Dutch, Germans, Britons, and Poles) moving to Cyprus consider bringing their car with them or importing a vehicle. The reasons are logical:

  • Cars in Cyprus are often more expensive than in the UK or EU
  • You are attached to your own vehicle or the brand
  • You want the security of a known car with a full maintenance history, which is still not really the case in Cyprus in 2026.

Whether you are importing a car from the UK to Cyprus, from Belgium, Germany or the Netherlands, the procedures differ slightly, especially since Brexit.

Cyprus Car Import Policy: The Basic Rules

Before you calculate the costs, there are a number of fixed rules that apply to all input:

  • Maximum vehicle age: In many cases, used vehicles imported into Cyprus must be less than five years old at the time of arrival to be registered locally. Autoagora
  • Right-hand drive permitted: Cyprus drives on the left, meaning right-hand drive vehicles (from the UK and Japan) are fully permitted.
  • EORI number mandatory: As of June 28, 2024, obtaining an EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number is mandatory for all importers. Soneverse
  • SVA / DoRT inspection: Upon arrival, the vehicle must pass a technical inspection at the Department for Road Transport (comparable to an MOT) before it can be registered.
  • Temporary import: During a temporary stay in Cyprus, it is possible to keep a vehicle in the country for a maximum of six months without full registration, provided that the vehicle is subsequently re-exported. Autoagora

Tip: If you're moving to Cyprus as a private individual, you may be eligible for an exemption from import duties and VAT, provided you owned the car for at least six months before your move. Cyprus-Consult can fully verify and apply for this for you.

Need help with car import services?

Whether you want to import a car from Belgium, the Netherlands, or the UK, Cyprus-Consult will take care of everything for you. From customs and clearances, to transport and registration, and insurance and license plates

Request a free consultation now and soon you'll be driving worry-free and tax-efficiently on Cypriot roads.

Importing a car from the UK to Cyprus

After Brexit, the UK will officially become a non-EU country. This means it will be treated differently for customs and VAT purposes than imports from Belgium or the Netherlands.

Important points to note:

  • You pay import duties and VAT (normally 19%)
  • You will need documents such as the original V5C registration certificate and invoice
  • The vehicle must meet EU emission standards and Cypriot registration requirements
  • The car is inspected by the Department of Road Transport (DoRT)

Importing a car from Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany... (EU countries)

Within the EU the procedure is simpler:

  • No import duties or customs duties
  • Only registration and local vehicle tax
  • The car must pass a technical inspection (MOT)
  • You will then receive a Cypriot number plate (white plates)

Depending on the car type, engine size and CO₂ emissions, there may be additional costs for registration and road tax.

How much does it cost to import a car to Cyprus?

The cost of importing a car to Cyprus depends on several factors:

  • Origin of the car (EU or non-EU)
  • Age and CO₂ emissions
  • Engine capacity and fuel type
  • Type of use (private or moving goods)
  • Transportation costs

On average, importing a car to Cyprus costs between €1,250 and €3,500. 

Step-by-step plan: importing a car to Cyprus

Prepare documents:
Make sure you have the registration certificate, purchase invoice, and shipping documents.

Arranging transport:
Cars are often transported by container or roll-on/roll-off (RoRo).

Arrival at Limassol or Larnaca Port:
Customs inspection and registration of the import.

Technical inspection & registration:
The vehicle must comply with local technical requirements.

Insurance and number plates:
You will receive Cypriot plates (white or yellow, depending on status).

Buying a car Cyprus - Buying a car in Cyprus through import or shipping

Relevant information

Frequently asked questions about importing cars to Cyprus

Any questions? Feel free to ask us!

The cost of importing a car into Cyprus depends on the country of origin, vehicle value, and engine size. On average, it is between €1,250 and €3,500, depending on the type of car and CO₂ emissions.

Yes, if you have owned the property for at least 6 months and are moving permanently, you can apply for an exemption.

On average 2 to 4 weeks, depending on transport and customs clearance.

The tax depends on CO₂ emissions, age, and fuel type. Electric cars have a 0% registration tax.

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