Importing a JDM car from NZ advices

[danny9292]

Hello,

I'm a kiwi making the big move to the UK early next year. I have a 97 180sx shell that I've held on to for the last few years that id like to bring over to the UK and work on it as a project. Its currently de-registered in NZ(not sure if that matters) but i have papers evidence to suggest its been in my possession for the past few years.

Now my questions are

What is the registration process like in the UK for something like this?(is it a simple registration(IVA) -> MOT -> road?

Will i pay any VAT or any form of taxes for this vehicle even though its my personal car?

I'm looking to full cage the car and put some serious modifications into it. In NZ you need to get a specific motorsport license to drive a full caged car on the road as well as a certification process for the modifications. Is there anything here that's similar to that, that i need to be aware of?

I have done some reading on the topics but find different answers on different blogs so would like to get some proper answer to start planning for things.

Any advices would be greatly appreciated

Thanks!

[samoht]

On tax, the only concern is that it's meant to be used for the 'same purpose' in the UK as was in NZ, if you've never had it registered in your name in NZ that might be an issue? But worth a try I think. Worst case you pay ~30% of its value in taxes. Otherwise you look to meet the requirements.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/transfer-of-residence-...

Notify HMRC within 14 days of import (NOVA scheme)

Then once it's roadworthy, insure it on the chassis number and take it for an MoT. You can then register it with the DVLA.

It'll need a rear foglight fitting to pass MoT, easily done though. In principle it needs cat fitted too.

I think the only concern with a cage is insurance AFAIK, you get into more specialist insurers when you start removing airbags, fitting cages etc. But shouldn't be any MoT or similar issues. No certification needed for mods beyond passing the annual MoT.