Ask Us Anything
Can I export a new car tax-free?
I would like to export a new car, so am I exempt from government taxes?
Thanks in advance
Kevin Timlin
Kevin Timlin (Ballina)Feb 2020 Filed under: taxation
Expert answer
Hi Kevin,
It depends on what you mean. Are you bringing a new car into the country and then sending it straight on out again? Theoretically, if the vehicle were in the state for less than seven days, then you would not have to inform Revenue of it being here, and would therefore — yes — be exempt from paying any VRT or VAT on it.
However, to cover yourself, it would be prudent to communicate your plans with Revenue first, and possibly ask for a letter from them, stating that they know of the fact that the car is coming into the country but leaving again before VRT is due.
If the car is already registered as an Irish car, and has had all its VRT paid, then you can claim back a proportionate amount of that VRT, relative to the car’s current second hand value, when you export it.
Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor @neilmbriscoe