Can I bring this Kia EV in from the North?
Hello,
I have a VRT and VAT question for you. I'm looking at a Kia EV, a two-year-old car. Straight forward as it's been in use all its life in NI and it seems would be an easy import with all the savings.
However, the vehicle was registered to the motor dealer and was used as a demo car. It's technically a VAT-qualifying vehicle and there are companies that will act as third parties, buy the car and sell it to you without the VAT for a small fee.
My question is, if I do that, can I then bring it into Ireland? The form you fill out for the VRT does ask about VAT and if VAT was paid.
Adam (KERRY )Apr 2026 Filed under: importing
Expert answer
Hi Adam,
Based on the information you've provided, I think you'll cause complications by trying to get rid of the VAT portion through an intermediary in the North, and that may raise suspicions with Revenue on importation.
There's no way to avoid VAT on a car - you either pay it in the North or when you import it here.
As the car was used in the North for those two years, there should be no additional VAT (or import duty) payable on importing it south, even though it was used by a dealer. Just pay the dealer in full, get an invoice from them showing the transaction and then you should only be dealing with VRT (which is presumably zero in the case of a used EV such as this in any case).
If in any doubt, send a query to Revenue.
Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor