Importing your car

Bringing your existing car to Cyprus is feasible but the maths matter
because Cyprus has a substantial registration tax based on engine size +
CO₂ emissions.

THE THREE QUESTIONS

1. Is it left-hand-drive (LHD) or right-hand-drive (RHD)?
   Cyprus drives on the LEFT. RHD cars (UK, etc.) work without conversion.
   LHD cars are legal but resale value is limited.

2. Can you claim transfer-of-residence (TOR) relief?
   If yes, both VAT (19%) and registration tax are waived. Eligibility:
   · You owned and used the car at your previous residence ≥6 months
   · You're moving residence permanently to Cyprus
   · You've owned the car ≥6 months before transfer
   · You bring it within 12 months of becoming Cyprus-resident

3. What are the duties if TOR doesn't apply?
   · VAT: 19% on customs value (declared value depreciated for age)
   · Registration tax: depends on engine cc + CO₂ emissions
     · 1.0L petrol low-CO₂: ~€250–€500
     · 2.0L mid-CO₂: ~€700–€1,500
     · 3.0L+ high-CO₂ (SUV): €2,500–€5,000+

THE PROCESS

1. SHIP — usually via container or RoRo ferry to Limassol port.
   €1,500–€3,500 typical UK→Cyprus including marine insurance.

2. CUSTOMS CLEARANCE — within 10 days of arrival, present to Customs at
   port:
   · Bill of lading
   · V5C / title document (apostilled if non-EU origin)
   · Passport + residence document
   · Purchase invoice
   · Application for TOR relief (if claiming) — Form C72A
   Customs assess + release.

3. ROADWORTHINESS (MOT) — Cyprus calls it "MOT" too. Required if
   your car is over 4 years old. ~€40 at any approved testing centre.

4. INSURANCE — third-party minimum legally required. Get quotes before
   registering: €280–€600/yr typical for established drivers.

5. REGISTRATION — at the Road Transport Department with:
   · Customs release
   · MOT certificate
   · Insurance certificate
   · Application form — VAT, road tax (annual, ~€40–€500 by engine)

6. NUMBER PLATES — issued by RTD. €15.

TIPS

· Do TOR paperwork before shipping — much cheaper than retro-claiming
· Vehicles older than ~10 years often pay punitive emission surcharges
· Used import market is liquid — sometimes cheaper to sell at home + buy
  here
· UK RHD imports are accepted but avoid odd specs (e.g. 6.0L V8) if you
  ever want to resell

OFFICIAL: mof.gov.cy/customs (Customs) + rtd.dmrid.gov.cy (RTD)