CompleteCar
Ask Us Anything

Will I have to pay VAT and VRT on this MG?

Hi,

I'm looking to import a 50-year-old MG from Northern Ireland (NI). The current owner in NI has owned the car since May 2024, so less than six months. The previous owner also lived in NI, but there is no way to prove that from the V5 document, or from MOT certificates which are no longer required. The car has an original UK mainland registration.

Given the comment 'Proof will be required that the vehicle has been in private ownership for a reasonable period of time’, stated on the Revenue pages, will the import be liable for both VAT and VRT?

Thank you for your help

Marcus Wilson (Bandon)

Oct 2024 Filed under: classic cars


Expert answer

Hi Marcus,

Though Revenue is a bit vague about it, it has been generally accepted that three months is a reasonable amount of time and we don’t believe you will be liable for VAT or customs duty on that car.

All imports attract VRT, but the good news for you is that it’s fixed for classics at just €200.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor
@Shane_O_D


Read all questions...