Do I pay VRT importing a BMW i3 from GB?
Hello
I was planning on buying a 2016 BMW i3 from GB. I'm totally new to cars and don't really have a good idea on what I'm doing. The garage I'm buying it from has it listed for £7,000. I was just wondering how much VRT I would be paying for this car and any other expenses?
Vakaris (Dublin)Apr 2025 Filed under: importing
Expert answer
Hi Vakaris,
Actually, as the BMW i3 is an EV, and there's VRT relief for electric cars on first registration in Ireland (it doesn't matter if the car is new or used), you won't pay any VRT.
However, if the car has indeed come from England, Scotland or Wales, you will have to pay VAT and customs duty. Customs duty is 10 per cent of the 'customs value', which is defined as the price you paid for the car, plus transport and insurance costs. VAT is 23 per cent of the customs value plus the customs duty paid.
If the car is actually coming from Northern Ireland, and not GB, the situation is different.
I suggest you give our guides on all this a read:
Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor