Can I claim back VAT on a UK import?

Hi,

Can I claim VAT back on a second hand UK car? I’m not VAT-registered. I’m looking at importing a Jan 2020 electric Peugeot e-208.

Cheers

Dave Bohan (Cork)

Dave Bohan (Cork)

Feb 2021 Filed under: importing

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Expert answer

Hi Dave,

I’m afraid not. If you were VAT-registered and buying a commercial vehicle strictly for business use, then yes you could, but on a private car? No way, I’m afraid. Worse, you’ll have to pay VAT in two territories thanks to Brexit, unless you're buying from Northern Ireland.

Read our Guide to Importing Cars from the UK feature for more.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe