VAT and import tax on imported cars

[Ecosseven]

Does anyone know how long you have to own a car outside of the UK before you can import it to the UK without having to pay VAT?

Do you still have to pay import tax (10%?) regardless of the length of time you have owned the car outside the UK?

Thanks

[Tom74]

You have to own the car for more than 6 months before bringing it to the UK to escape any VAT or import duty, but you also have to have been non UK resident during that time too.

When I brought mine in I then had to keep it for a further 6 months before I could sell it on, this may be a year in the UK though, not sure.

Tom

[Ecosseven]

Thanks Tom,

I'm currently in the UAE and looking at either a Corvette Z06 or mustang GT500. Whatever I buy I would want to bring it back with me.

Martin.

[Tom74]

Thats exactly what I did Martin, if you need any info on shipping agents etc let me know.

[LuS1fer]

I think you pay VAT regardless, it's the import duty you don't pay isn't it?

[Steve_M]

Nope, if you have owned the car 6 months or more you pay nothing except ESVA

[Roo]

Tom74 said:

When I brought mine in I then had to keep it for a further 6 months before I could sell it on, this may be a year in the UK though, not sure.

Tom

It is, indeed, a year.

[mrobin33]

You pay import duty and VAT however long you've owned it unless you are coming back with the car and can prove it. The exemption is there for people moving for their job back to the UK; in which case you have to keep the car for six months once you get it here. If you live in the UK you pay it, if you live in the US (like I do) you pay it. It's all online at the Customs website.