Importing a car from Japan to Ireland is a smart way to get a high-quality and affordable vehicle. As we know, Japanese cars are mainly known for their reliability, low mileage and advanced features. This makes them a popular choice for Irish buyers. However, the process involves several steps, including understanding import duties for cars in Ireland, VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax), and NCTS inspection requirements. It starts with sourcing your car via Japanese used car auctions or trusted sellers. Make sure the vehicle meets EU standards and check for a certificate of conformity or just prepare for an IVA test. Shipping can take 6-8 weeks, followed by customs clearance and CO2-based taxation. Moreover, you will also have to pass the NCTS inspection before registration. This blog post discusses the entire process, from buying a car in Japanese used car auctions to registering it in Ireland.

Why Import a Car from Japan?

Japan is one of the world’s largest exporters of used cars, offering well-maintained vehicles at competitive prices. Some benefits include:

Lower prices compared to Irish and UK car imports Dublin.

High-quality vehicles with low mileage and full service history.

Wide selection of JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) models not available in Europe.

Step-by-Step Process to Import a Car from Japan to Ireland

1. Find a Reliable Exporter or Auction

Getting your car from Japan is simple if you use the right sources. Most buyers choose between:

Online auctions (like Nobuko Japan): Cheaper prices, huge selection

Japanese dealers: More expensive but easier process

Pick an exporter with good reviews who speaks English. They'll help you find the right car and will handle all the paperwork for you. Not only that, they will even arrange shipping to Ireland. Indeed, a good exporter makes everything easier and helps avoid problems. They know all about Irish import rules and can even help you save money compared to buying locally or from the UK.

2. Check Vehicle Eligibility

Not all Japanese cars can be driven here! You need to check:

EU Emissions Rules: Your car must meet pollution standards

Safety Standards: Proper seatbelts, lights, etc.

You will need a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), as it's the "EU passport" for newer cars. In case you do not have a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), you will need an IVA test to prove the vehicle is safe.

3. Arrange Shipping

Now it's time to get your car from Japan to Ireland! You have two main shipping options:

• Option 1: RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
• Your car drives onto a ship with others
• Cheaper (€800-€1,500)
• Takes 6-8 weeks
• Less protection from weather
• Option 2: Container Shipping
• Your car gets its own metal box
• More expensive (€1,500-€3,000)
• Safer for luxury/classic cars
• Takes about the same time

The shipping cost is mainly affected by the car size, shipping method and time of year. Consider asking your exporter to handle shipping since they will know the best routes and deals.

4. Pay Import Duties & Taxes

When the car arrives in Ireland, you must pay:

• Customs duty (10% for used cars, 6% for hybrids/electric vehicles).
• VAT (23% of the car’s value + shipping + insurance).
• VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) – based on CO2 emissions (CO2-based taxation).

Note: If you're importing your vehicle via the UK, there may be additional customs checks due to post-Brexit.

5. Clear Irish Revenue Customs

Submit required documents to Irish Revenue customs for cars, including:

• Bill of Lading
• Commercial Invoice
• Proof of Ownership
• Japanese Export Certificate

6. Undergo NCTS Inspection

Before you can drive your Japanese import legally, it must pass Ireland's NCTS test (like the UK's MOT). Here's what to expect:

• What They Check:
• Lights, brakes & steering
• Seatbelts and safety features
• Emissions and exhaust
• Body condition and rust

You will have to bring your car (obviously), proof of ownership and any import paperwork. Moreover, the cost of the test is around €55.

If you fail the test, don't panic. You will get a list of needed repairs for your vehicle. The common Japanese import issues are headlights (may need adjusting for right-hand traffic), speedometer (must show km/h) and emissions (older diesels sometimes fail). Consider getting a pre-shipment inspection in Japan to catch problems early.

7. Register the Car in Ireland

Almost there! Now it's time to make your Japanese car officially Irish. Here's how:

What You Need to Do:

1. Visit Your Local Motor Tax Office - Bring:

• NCTS pass certificate
• Proof of ownership
• Customs clearance docs
• Insurance certificate
• ID (passport/driving license)

2. Pay Registration Fees - This includes:

• Registration fee (€60)
• First year's motor tax (based on engine size/emissions)

3. Get Your Plates - You'll receive:

• Irish license plates
• Vehicle registration certificate (logbook)

Conclusion

Importing a car from Japan to Ireland offers unbeatable value; high-quality, low-mileage vehicles at competitive prices. The process involves several steps which is why careful planning makes it straightforward. Start by choosing a trusted exporter who can navigate Japanese used car auctions and handle paperwork. Next, ensure your vehicle meets EU standards with a Certificate of Conformity or prepare for an IVA test. Shipping (6-8 weeks via RoRo or container) is followed by customs clearance, where you’ll pay VAT (23%), duty (10u%), and CO2-based VRT.

Don’t forget the mandatory NCTS inspection (€55) to check safety and emissions. Finally, register your car with Irish plates. This requires proof of ownership, insurance, and a small fee. Moreover, the key benefits include lower prices than UK imports, reliable Japanese cars and unique JDM models that aren't available locally.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to import a car from Japan to Ireland?

The costs include the car purchase price, shipping,customs duty, VAT, VRT and NCTS fee.

2. Do I need a Certificate of Conformity (CoC)?

For newer EU-approved models, a CoC simplifies registration. If unavailable, an IVA test may be required.

3. Can I avoid VRT when importing a car?

No, VRT is mandatory unless exempt (e.g., electric vehicles under certain conditions).

4. How long does the process take?

Shipping can take 6–8 weeks and customs clearance will take 1–2 weeks. For registration, 1-2 weeks are expected as well.

5. Are Japanese cars right-hand drive?

Yes, like Ireland, Japan uses right-hand drive vehicles, making them compatible.

6. What about UK car imports to Dublin after Brexit?

Post-Brexit, UK car imports to Dublin now face EU import duties and VAT, making Japanese imports more attractive.