Import costs depend on the car's origin, registration and customs or VAT history, as well as VRT. Great Britain and Northern Ireland are different cases. Check Revenue's requirements and supporting documents for the exact vehicle before paying, then include transport, registration and inspection costs when comparing it with an Irish advert.
Direct answer updated 14 October 2026. Earlier guide updated 10 October 2026.
Primary sources: Revenue: Great Britain and Northern Ireland imports · Revenue: calculating VRT
Importing a car from the UK to Ireland used to be straightforward. Post-Brexit, it’s a maze of customs duties, VRT, NOx charges, and paperwork that can turn a bargain into a nightmare if you don’t plan properly.
Budget 2027: proposed VRT increases for CO₂ bands 3–20 and the EV relief extension to end 2028 are pending Finance Bill. Compare 2026 and proposed 2027 VRT rates before budgeting for an import; buying or shipping before January does not guarantee the current rate.
This guide walks you through every step. Before you start, use our VRT calculator to check the total cost — and compare against Irish prices for the same model.
Step 1: Find the Right Car
Not every UK car is worth importing. The best candidates are:
- Electric vehicles — 7% VRT, zero NOx, UK prices 20–30% cheaper
- Low-CO2 petrols — small engines under 100g/km have low VRT rates
- Rare models — cars simply not available on the Irish market
Avoid importing high-emission diesels — the NOx surcharge alone can be €1,000+.
Step 2: Check the Car’s UK History
Before you travel:
- Get a UK HPI check (verifies finance, write-off status, mileage, stolen status)
- Check the MOT history at gov.uk (free)
- Verify the V5C (logbook) matches the seller
- Check if the car has any outstanding recalls
Step 3: Calculate the Full Cost
Use our VRT calculator to get an estimate, then add:
- Purchase price (convert GBP to EUR at current rate)
- VRT (7–41% of OMSP depending on emissions)
- NOx surcharge (€5–25 per mg/km)
- Customs duty and VAT (post-Brexit: 10% duty unless the car is of UK origin and qualifies for the zero rate under the EU–UK trade agreement, plus 23% import VAT)
- Shipping/ferry (€200–600 depending on method)
- Transit insurance (€50–150)
- Compliance (if needed) — headlight conversion for LHD, fog light, etc.
Step 4: Customs Declaration
Since Brexit, UK cars are treated as non-EU imports. You need:
- A customs declaration (Revenue’s AIS system or use a customs agent)
- Proof of purchase (invoice from seller)
- Vehicle documentation (V5C, MOT certificate)
Important: The zero customs rate under the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement applies only to cars of UK origin, backed by a statement on origin. A car built in the EU or elsewhere and bought in Great Britain pays the 10% duty.
Step 5: Book a VRT Appointment
You must register the car within 30 days of arrival in Ireland. Book at your nearest NCT centre at ncts.ie. Bring:
- Foreign registration certificate (V5C)
- Proof of identity + address
- Customs clearance documentation
- Payment for VRT (card or bank transfer)
Step 6: Insurance & Road Tax
After VRT registration, you’ll receive Irish number plates and a Vehicle Registration Certificate. You can then:
- Insure the car on an Irish policy
- Tax it at your local motor tax office
- Book an NCT if the car is over 4 years old
Is It Worth It in 2026?
For most cars: no. The combination of VRT, customs duty, NOx, and the strong pound means Irish-market equivalents are often the same price or cheaper once you factor in hassle, time, and risk.
The exceptions: EVs (low VRT, no NOx, big UK price gap), rare cars, and specific models where the UK has oversupply.
Always check Irish prices first before committing to an import.