Right-hand drive used Japanese cars are permitted for import in Ireland. In Ireland, left-hand side driving is done. Other ports for importing Japan used cars in Ireland are Rosslare, Rosslare, Arklow, Wicklow, Dún Laoghaire, Howth, Drogheda, and Dundalk. Used Japanese vehicles that are above 4 years old have to pass the National Car Test(NCT) to be allowed for import in Ireland, even if it has been tested before.

• Commercial invoice (original)
• Irish Customs Form 1076
• Title and Registration certificate (original)
• A document in original stating the engine and chassis numbers, and the owner’s name
• Declaration for Registration (Form VRT 4, to be completed for import of used vehicles)
• Declaration for Registration (Form VRT 5, if the vehicle to be imported is a motorcycle)

The owner will receive the following documents after the payment of the VRT and the registration of the vehicle is done by the Revenue Commissioners-

• VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) receipt stating the registration number that has been assigned to the car.
• Form RF 100. This form is required when the owner applies for the motor tax.

Motor insurance of the vehicle is required if the vehicle has to be driven in public places. Motor insurance also needs to be done before paying the motor tax. The motor tax depends on the engine size of the vehicle.

Exemption on VRT for the registration of used Japanese cars in Ireland is given.

• Drivers who are disabled
• Those who are visiting and will stay in Ireland temporarily and have owned the vehicle for no less than 6 months abroad.
• Those who want to permanently reside in Ireland and the vehicle has been owned by them for no less than 6 months.
• Those who have been posted in Ireland under diplomatic corps.

The importer is not permitted to sell or dispose of the vehicle after the exemption is availed. If the importer pays the VRT, then he/she is permitted to sell or dispose of the vehicle. The importer must deposit the vehicle at an authorized treatment facility if the vehicle is to be disposed of.

• 10% of Customs Duty will be imposed on the import of all Japan used vehicles.
• 21% VAT will be charged on the used Japanese vehicles.
• Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) is imposed based on the vehicle’s Open Market Selling Price (OMSP).