Importing a car from the UK to Ireland used to be straightforward. Post-Brexit, it’s a maze of customs duties, VRT, NOx charges, and paperwork that can turn a bargain into a nightmare if you don’t plan properly.
Budget 2027: proposed VRT increases for CO₂ bands 3–20 and the EV relief extension to end 2028 are pending Finance Bill. Compare 2026 and proposed 2027 VRT rates before budgeting for an import; buying or shipping before January does not guarantee the current rate.
This guide walks you through every step. Before you start, use our VRT calculator to check the total cost — and compare against Irish prices for the same model.
Step 1: Find the Right Car
Not every UK car is worth importing. The best candidates are:
- Electric vehicles — 7% VRT, zero NOx, UK prices 20–30% cheaper
- Low-CO2 petrols — small engines under 100g/km have low VRT rates
- Rare models — cars simply not available on the Irish market
Avoid importing high-emission diesels — the NOx surcharge alone can be €1,000+.
Step 2: Check the Car’s UK History
Before you travel:
- Get a UK HPI check (verifies finance, write-off status, mileage, stolen status)
- Check the MOT history at gov.uk (free)
- Verify the V5C (logbook) matches the seller
- Check if the car has any outstanding recalls
Step 3: Calculate the Full Cost
Use our VRT calculator to get an estimate, then add:
- Purchase price (convert GBP to EUR at current rate)
- VRT (7–41% of OMSP depending on emissions)
- NOx surcharge (€5–25 per mg/km)
- Customs duty and VAT (post-Brexit: 10% duty unless the car is of UK origin and qualifies for the zero rate under the EU–UK trade agreement, plus 23% import VAT)
- Shipping/ferry (€200–600 depending on method)
- Transit insurance (€50–150)
- Compliance (if needed) — headlight conversion for LHD, fog light, etc.
Step 4: Customs Declaration
Since Brexit, UK cars are treated as non-EU imports. You need:
- A customs declaration (Revenue’s AIS system or use a customs agent)
- Proof of purchase (invoice from seller)
- Vehicle documentation (V5C, MOT certificate)
Important: The zero customs rate under the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement applies only to cars of UK origin, backed by a statement on origin. A car built in the EU or elsewhere and bought in Great Britain pays the 10% duty.
Step 5: Book a VRT Appointment
You must register the car within 30 days of arrival in Ireland. Book at your nearest NCT centre at ncts.ie. Bring:
- Foreign registration certificate (V5C)
- Proof of identity + address
- Customs clearance documentation
- Payment for VRT (card or bank transfer)
Step 6: Insurance & Road Tax
After VRT registration, you’ll receive Irish number plates and a Vehicle Registration Certificate. You can then:
- Insure the car on an Irish policy
- Tax it at your local motor tax office
- Book an NCT if the car is over 4 years old
Is It Worth It in 2026?
For most cars: no. The combination of VRT, customs duty, NOx, and the strong pound means Irish-market equivalents are often the same price or cheaper once you factor in hassle, time, and risk.
The exceptions: EVs (low VRT, no NOx, big UK price gap), rare cars, and specific models where the UK has oversupply.
Always check Irish prices first before committing to an import.