Importing a Car to Cyprus: Overview
Many premium car buyers in Cyprus consider importing from Germany, the UK, or other European countries. While it can save money, especially on high-specification models, the process involves costs and paperwork that need careful consideration.
EU Imports (Germany, France, Italy, etc.)
As an EU member state, Cyprus offers simplified import procedures for cars from other EU countries:
- No customs duty, Free movement of goods within the EU
- No VAT, If the car is used (>6 months old, >6,000 km) and was purchased VAT-paid
- Registration tax, Based on CO2 emissions (the main cost)
- Shipping, Typically €800-1,500 from Germany/Italy by container or RoRo
Registration Tax (Excise Duty)
This is the biggest cost and depends on CO2 emissions:
- 0-120 g/km CO2: €0.50 per g/km
- 121-150 g/km: €2.50 per g/km
- 151-180 g/km: €5.00 per g/km
- 181-200 g/km: €10.00 per g/km
- 201-250 g/km: €15.00 per g/km
- 250+ g/km: €20.00 per g/km
Example: A BMW M3 Competition with 227 g/km CO2 would cost approximately €3,405 in registration tax (227 × €15).
Important: Performance cars with high CO2 emissions face significantly higher registration costs. A Porsche 911 Turbo S (254 g/km) would cost approximately €5,080 in registration tax alone. Factor this into your import calculations.
UK Imports (Post-Brexit)
Since Brexit, importing from the UK is more complex:
- Customs duty, 6.5% of the vehicle value (may be reduced under trade agreements)
- VAT, 19% on the vehicle value + customs duty
- Registration tax, Same CO2-based scale as above
- Steering conversion, Not required (Cyprus drives on the left) but right-hand drive vehicles may have lower resale value
Non-EU Imports (USA, Gulf States, Japan)
- Customs duty, 6.5% of CIF value
- VAT, 19% on (CIF value + customs duty)
- Registration tax, CO2-based
- EU type approval, May be required (€500-2,000)
- Modification costs, Headlights, speedometer, emissions compliance
Step-by-Step Import Process
- Purchase the vehicle, Get all documentation: title, invoice, service history
- Arrange shipping, RoRo (cheaper) or container (safer). Budget €800-2,000 from Europe
- Customs clearance, Submit documents at Limassol or Larnaca port
- Pay duties and taxes, Customs duty (if applicable) + VAT + registration tax
- Technical inspection, MOT equivalent at approved testing center
- Register the vehicle, Road Transport Department, requires insurance proof
- Get Cyprus plates, Process takes 2-5 working days after registration
Import vs. Buy Locally: The Calculation
Sometimes importing looks cheaper on paper but isn't after all costs. Consider:
- Purchase price difference (often 5-15% cheaper in Germany)
- Minus: Shipping (€800-1,500)
- Minus: Registration tax (€1,000-5,000+ depending on CO2)
- Minus: Time, paperwork, and risk
- Minus: No local warranty or return option
Car Scout tip: For most buyers, the best value is finding a great deal within Cyprus. Our AI scans the local market to find cars priced at or below import-equivalent prices, without the hassle. Import makes sense primarily for rare specifications not available locally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to import a car to Cyprus from Germany?
For an EU import: shipping €800-1,500 + registration tax (CO2-based, typically €1,000-5,000 for premium cars). No customs duty or VAT for used vehicles purchased VAT-paid within the EU.
Can I import a car from the UK to Cyprus?
Yes, but post-Brexit it involves customs duty (6.5%) + VAT (19%) + registration tax. This makes UK imports significantly more expensive. However, Cyprus drives on the left, so RHD vehicles are practical.
How long does it take to import a car to Cyprus?
Shipping from Europe takes 5-14 days. Customs clearance, inspection, and registration add 5-10 working days. Total: approximately 2-4 weeks from purchase to driving with Cyprus plates.
Is it cheaper to buy locally or import?
For most premium cars, buying locally in Cyprus offers better value when you factor in shipping, taxes, and time. The exception is rare specifications not available on the island. Car Scout helps you find the best local deals.
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