Can I reclaim VAT paid on a UK import?

Hi,

I plan to buy a July 2020 car in the UK. I understand that I will pay Irish VAT along with the VRT and that I can reclaim the UK VAT from the UK government once the vehicle is registered in Ireland. Is this correct?

Many thanks

Gerry O'Brien

Gerry O'BRIEN (Ashbourne)

Nov 2020 Filed under: importing

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Expert answer

Hi Gerry,

Yes, that’s right. You need to fill out form VAT411, which allows a private individual — whether you are registered for VAT or not — to reclaim the VAT. However, there will be an extra cost involved — UK VAT is charged at 20 per cent, but Irish VAT is 21 per cent (temporarily)...

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe