Import Cars to Ireland from Japan

Q: What is the car import age limit for Ireland?

Ireland allows importing vehicles that are at least 30 years old. In 2026 that means a model year of 1996 or earlier. Newer cars are generally not eligible for standard private import.

Q: Do you handle shipping and export paperwork to Ireland?

Yes. Every order includes Japanese export de-registration, the English export certificate, marine insurance and shipping from Japan to Ireland by RORO or container. Our export team prepares the documents your customs broker needs.

Q: What documents come with the car?

Each vehicle ships with the original Japanese auction sheet, our own inspection report with photos, and the export certificate. Mileage and condition are stated as recorded at the Japanese auction.

Everything you need to import a used car from Japan to Ireland — the age rule, shipping options, taxes and the vehicles currently available at a fixed One Price. Vehicles 30 years and older qualify — model year 1996 or earlier for 2026.

Ireland Import Regulations

Shipping & Logistics

ETA: Ocean transit (often via UK) approx. 6-8 weeks. Total ETA: ~7-9 weeks.
Ports: Dublin Port.

Customs & Costs

Standard Cars (<30 yrs): High taxes! 10% Duty + 23% VAT + VRT (up to 41% of Irish value) + heavy NOx charge (up to €600 petrol / €4,850 diesel).
Classic Cars (30+ yrs): Massive benefits! 0% Duty, 13.5% VAT, Flat VRT of €200, ZERO NOx charge.
Fees: Broker/Handling ~€250-€350.

Age & Import Restrictions (CRITICAL)

Due to devastating VRT and NOx charges on 90s/00s cars lacking EU CoC, we STRONGLY recommend importing vehicles 30 years or older for Vintage status.

Disclaimer

The import regulations, taxes, and age restrictions provided below are gathered from public internet sources for general guidance only. We do not bear any legal responsibility for the accuracy of this information. It is your sole responsibility to verify how to clear customs, homologate, and register the vehicle in your country. We are only responsible for shipping the vehicle to your requested port.

Frequently asked questions

Ireland allows importing vehicles that are at least 30 years old. In 2026 that means a model year of 1996 or earlier. Newer cars are generally not eligible for standard private import.

Yes. Every order includes Japanese export de-registration, the English export certificate, marine insurance and shipping from Japan to Ireland by RORO or container. Our export team prepares the documents your customs broker needs.

Each vehicle ships with the original Japanese auction sheet, our own inspection report with photos, and the export certificate. Mileage and condition are stated as recorded at the Japanese auction.