Importing from Japan: your questions answered
The questions we hear most, and the ones asked most often on Irish car forums, answered in plain English.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to import a car from Japan to Ireland?
Add the auction price, export and shipping (about €1,000–€1,700), customs duty (0% for Japan-built cars with proof of origin, otherwise 10%), VAT at 23%, VRT, the clearance agent, our fee and the NCT. Use our calculator for your car.
How long does it take to import a car from Japan?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks from winning the auction to Irish plates: about 6 to 8 weeks at sea, plus customs, VRT and registration.
Is it worth importing a car from Japan to Ireland?
Often, especially for hybrids and well-specified cars, where the landed cost can be thousands below Irish prices. Our 'Is it worth importing?' tool compares the two for your car.
Do I pay VAT on a used car from Japan?
Yes. Import VAT at 23% applies on the customs value plus duty for cars from outside the EU.
What is the import duty on cars from Japan?
0% for Japanese-origin cars from 1 February 2026 when origin is documented; 10% for other cars.
What is VRT and how is it calculated?
Vehicle Registration Tax: the Irish open market selling price multiplied by a CO₂ band rate (7%–41%), plus a NOx charge.
Can I import a car from Japan myself?
Yes, but you need a Japanese auction agent, a shipper, a customs agent, and you must handle VRT and the NCT. We handle the whole process for you.
Are Japanese cars right-hand drive?
Yes. Japan drives on the left like Ireland, so no conversion is needed.
What does a Japanese auction grade mean?
An independent inspector's condition score. 4 and above is good, 3.5 is average, and R or RA means past repairs.
Can I see the car before buying?
You see the auction photos and the inspection sheet, translated into English, before approving a bid. You never buy blind.
Will my Japanese import pass the NCT?
Usually, after common fixes such as E-marked tyres and a rear fog light. See our NCT checklist.
Is it hard to insure a Japanese import?
Most are straightforward. Japan-only models may need a specialist broker, so get a quote first.
Can I get finance on an imported car?
Personal loans from banks or credit unions are the most common way to fund an import.
Do Japanese imports have service history?
Some have Japanese service books. The auction inspection report is the key independent record.
Is the sat-nav in English?
Often it can be switched. Otherwise a CarPlay or Android Auto head unit solves it.
Which Japanese cars are best to import?
Popular choices are the Toyota Aqua, Prius, C-HR, RAV4 and Corolla, the Honda Fit and Vezel, and the Mazda CX-5, as well as European models such as the Golf.
Can I import an electric car from Japan?
Yes. The Nissan Leaf is the most common. Check battery health, and note the EV VRT relief.
What documents do I get?
The export certificate, auction sheet with translation, bill of lading, customs clearance documents, VRT receipt and the Irish registration cert.
What happens if the car is damaged in shipping?
Marine insurance covers transit. Damage is recorded at the port on arrival.
Can I import a car older than 30 years?
Yes. Cars over 30 years old can qualify as vintage for reduced VRT, currently a flat €200.
Do you import to Northern Ireland?
We specialise in the Republic of Ireland. Ask us about Northern Ireland.
How do I pay?
In stages: a deposit before bidding, the car balance after the win, then clearance and registration costs on arrival. See our payment stages.