What is the age limit for importing Japanese cars to Ireland?

No strict age limit. VRT exemption for classic cars 30+ years.

Import Japanese Car to Ireland — Complete Guide 2026

Q: What documents do I need to import a car from Japan to Ireland?

Export Certificate, Bill of Lading, Invoice, EU customs declaration, VRT appointment documentation

Age Limit

No limit

Import Duty

~35% total

6.5% EU import duty + 23% VAT + VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) based on CO2/engine

Steering Side

RHD

Right-hand drive. Ireland drives on the left — ideal for Japanese imports.

Transit Time

25–30 days

From Japanese port to Ireland

✅ Age Check — No Restriction

Ireland has no strict age limit on Japanese car imports. Any year vehicle can be imported (subject to emissions and roadworthy standards).

📍 Entry Ports

🚢 Dublin Port 🚢 Cork Port

📋 Required Documents

📄Export Certificate

📄Bill of Lading

📄Invoice

📄EU customs declaration

📄VRT appointment documentation

🗂 Step-by-Step Import Process

Select RHD vehicle meeting Euro 4+

Ship to Dublin or Cork

Pay 6.5% EU duty + 23% VAT at port

Book VRT appointment at NCT centre

Pay VRT (can be 7–41% of OMSP)

NCT roadworthy test

💰 Import Duty & Taxes

6.5% EU import duty + 23% VAT + VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) based on CO2/engine

⚠️ Important: Duty rates change regularly. The figures above are based on 2026 rates and are for guidance only. Always confirm current rates with a licensed customs agent or freight forwarder in Ireland before committing to a purchase.

🚫 Restrictions & Banned Vehicles

⛔Must pass NCT roadworthy test

⛔Headlights may need adjustment

⛔Euro 4 emissions minimum

🔍 Pre-shipment Inspection

NCT (National Car Test) equivalent after import. VRT assessment by Revenue.

🛡️ Safety Guide — Before You Buy

Always verify the auction sheet first. Get the original JP Sheet verification report before committing to any vehicle — confirms grade, mileage, accident history and all damage marks.
Check for flood damage. The Japanese inspector notes the word 冠水 (flood) in the auction sheet notes section. This is only visible with a full translation — never skip translation if buying for an important purpose.
Use a licensed freight forwarder who specifically handles Japan-to-Ireland imports. They know local customs requirements, common delays and documentation pitfalls.
Verify the exporter. Check the company is registered, has verifiable reviews, and provides a full paper trail including export certificate and shipping documents.
Never pay full price before the car ships. A deposit is normal — paying 100% before shipping is a major fraud risk.
Check the chassis number matches across all documents — auction sheet, export certificate, bill of lading and invoice must all carry the same number.

💡 Import Tips for Ireland

VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) in Ireland is based on CO2 emissions — lower-emission hybrids pay much less VRT than high-emission vehicles. A Toyota Prius pays far less VRT than a V8 Land Cruiser. Plan accordingly.