CompleteCar
Ask Us Anything

Will I need to pay VAT importing this Northern Ireland car?

Hi, just need some advice.

Thinking of purchasing a car from a Northern Irish dealer. The dealer classifies the car as used. It is a 2012 saloon with 3,830 miles (6,136 kilometres) on it and was registered in May 2012. On asking the history of the car as it has so low mileage, the dealer said the car was a UK car registered and used by the car manufacturer at their plant for use by its employees. VRT is payable but I'm assuming VAT is not payable as it's greater than six months old and is just over 6,000km. Just wanted opinions on whether VAT may be payable?

Many thanks

Ken Rea (Dublin 15)

Jun 2013 Filed under: VRT


Expert answer

Hi Ken,

OK, having combed the Revenue information booklets, as far as we can tell, the age of the vehicle in question means that it is not liable for VAT, but will, of course, be liable for VRT. It wouldn't hurt to double check with your local tax office to confirm this, though. Revenue tend to actually be very helpful with such inquiries, just be up front with them.

Let us know how you get on

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe


Read all questions...