Do I have to pay my car finance off before importing it?

I have lived in North Ireland for five years; can I transfer my car with finance on it or does finance have to be cleared to get a VRT exemption?

Siobhan Ryan (Derry )

Aug 2025 Filed under: VRT

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Expert answer

Hi Siobhan,

I don't think you'll have an issue with Revenue in Ireland when importing a car on which finance is owing, even if you're using the Transfer of Residence process. However, it's very likely against the terms of the car finance in the first place. You usually can't take a car out of the country until the finance has been paid in full and you own the car outright. 

Check your finance paperwork before making any decision would be our advice.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor