Motorcycles and Scooters registered in the republic of Ireland attract VRT in the price.

 

How to calculate VRT on Motorcycles and Scooters

VRT is calculated at €2.00 per CC of the engine for the first 350CC and €1.00 per CC there after.
NOTE; Vat is not applied to VRT

Example 1

Yamaha Aerox R has a 49.3CC engine, if we apply the rule above the VRT is as follows
The first 350cc is at €2.00 so
49x€2=€98
The VRT payable is €98

 

Example 2

Suzuki GSXR 600 has a 599CC engine, if we apply the rule above the VRT is as follows
The first 350cc is at €2.00 so
350x€2=€700
The cc of the bike is 599cc-350cc=249
249x€1=€249
€700+€249=€949 is the VRT payable on a GRXR600

 

Example 3

Yamaha YZF-R1 has a 998CC engine, if we apply the rule above the VRT is as follows

The first 350cc is at €2.00 so

350x€2=€700

The cc of the bike is 998cc-350cc=648

648x€1=€648

€700+€648=€1348 is the VRT payable on a Yamaha YZF-R1

 

VRT on second hand Motorbikes and Scooters

  • more than 3 months old but less than a year you get 10% discount (and may have to pay VAT)
  • less than 2 years, 20%
  • less than 3 years, 40%
  • less than 4 years, 50%
  • less than 5 years, 60%
  • less than 7 years, 70%
  • older than 10 and less than 30 years, 90%
  • over 30 years old has no charge

VAT on importing Second hand bikes

The important thing to remember if you are planning to import a Scooter or Motorcycle with under 6,000 Kilometers and or is under 3 months old you will be liable to pay VAT in full and that currently 23%. If the Motorbike or Scooter is 7 months old with 5,000km you’ll end up paying VAT and VRT.

 

Revenue say

What is the correct VRT registration process?

A vehicle imported into the State, must be presented for registration at an NCTS Centre. The appointment to register at the NCTS Centre must be made within 7 days of entry into the State, and the vehicle must be registered within 30 days of entry into the State. All of the required documentation must be presented at the time of the appointment in order to register the vehicle successfully. VRT will ordinarily be charged at the time of registration, although there are reliefs and exemptions from VRT available.

From 12 September 2016 a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) must be on the Revenue system before a new vehicle can be registered. What you are purchasing a new vehicle abroad you MUST get the CoC, either in paper or electronic form, from the seller. It is advisable that you check in advance that the seller has a CoC and the other mandatory documentation available. You will not be able to register your vehicle if you do not have the CoC or the other mandatory documentation.

 

http://www.revenue.ie/en/tax/vrt/faqs-vrt.html#question2

 

VAT Liability

When is VAT due on a vehicle?

VAT is due on a new vehicle brought into the State, (or in VAT terms, a new means of transport) which meets either one of the two criteria following:

  • It is supplied six months or less after the date of its first entry into service.

  • It has travelled 6,000 kilometres or less at the time of registration.

If the vehicle meets either of these criteria the vehicle is treated as a new means of transport for VAT purposes and VAT is chargeable at registration.

Retail Inc Vat & VRT

Motorcycles and Scooters registered in the republic of Ireland attract VRT in the price.

How to calculate VRT on Motorcycles and Scooters

VRT is calculated at €2.00 per CC of the engine for the first 350CC and €1.00 per CC there after.

NOTE; Vat is not applied to VRT

Example 1

Yamaha Aerox R has a 49.3CC engine, if we apply the rule above the VRT is as follows

The first 350cc is at €2.00 so

49x€2=€98

The VRT payable is €98

Example 2

Suzuki GSXR 600 has a 599CC engine, if we apply the rule above the VRT is as follows

The first 350cc is at €2.00 so

350x€2=€700

The cc of the bike is 599cc-350cc=249

249x€1=€249

€700+€249=€949 is the VRT payable on a GRXR600

Example 3

Yamaha YZF-R1 has a 998CC engine, if we apply the rule above the VRT is as follows

The first 350cc is at €2.00 so

350x€2=€700

The cc of the bike is 998cc-350cc=648

648x€1=€648

€700+€648=€1348 is the VRT payable on a Yamaha YZF-R1

VRT on second hand Motorbikes and Scooters

  • more than 3 months old but less than a year you get 10% discount (and may have to pay VAT)

  • less than 2 years, 20%

  • less than 3 years, 40%

  • less than 4 years, 50%

  • less than 5 years, 60%

  • less than 7 years, 70%

  • older than 10 and less than 30 years, 90%

  • over 30 years old has no charge

VAT on importing Second hand bikes

The important thing to remember if you are planning to import a Scooter or Motorcycle with under 6,000 Kilometers and or is under 3 months old you will be liable to pay VAT in full and that currently 23%. If the Motorbike or Scooter is 7 months old with 5,000km you’ll end up paying VAT and VRT.

Revenue say

VRT Registration Process

What is the correct registration process?

A vehicle imported into the State, must be presented for registration at an NCTS Centre. The appointment to register at the NCTS Centre must be made within 7 days of entry into the State, and the vehicle must be registered within 30 days of entry into the State. All of the required documentation must be presented at the time of the appointment in order to register the vehicle successfully. VRT will ordinarily be charged at the time of registration, although there are reliefs and exemptions from VRT available.

From 12 September 2016 a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) must be on the Revenue system before a new vehicle can be registered. What you are purchasing a new vehicle abroad you MUST get the CoC, either in paper or electronic form, from the seller. It is advisable that you check in advance that the seller has a CoC and the other mandatory documentation available. You will not be able to register your vehicle if you do not have the CoC or the other mandatory documentation.

http://www.revenue.ie/en/tax/vrt/faqs-vrt.html#question2

VAT Liability

When is VAT due on a vehicle?

VAT is due on a new vehicle brought into the State, (or in VAT terms, a new means of transport) which meets either one of the two criteria following:

  • It is supplied six months or less after the date of its first entry into service.

  • It has travelled 6,000 kilometres or less at the time of registration.

If the vehicle meets either of these criteria the vehicle is treated as a new means of transport for VAT purposes and VAT is chargeable at registration.

132 thoughts on “Importing a motorcycle to Ireland

  1. Fernando says:

    Hi, thanks for your great article! It did clear many of my questions 🙂

    I’ve recently moved to Ireland from outside UK/EU, and in my home country, I have a harley motorcycle I have for years. I’m very sentimental about my motorcycle and would be painful to just sell it and buy another one in Ireland.
    I’d really like to import it to Ireland, but all those taxes, forms, car tests, and so on… they sound very complicated. Do you happen to know which professional helps with personal imports?

    Thanks in advance 🙂

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi

      Motorcycle, motorbike scooters and certain all terrain vehicles VRT is charged based on engine size. The rate is €2 per cc up to 350 cc and €1 per cc above 350.
      The revenue allow 10% off for each year. If you are moving to the country and own the bike for over 6 months you should be able to import it for free.
      If not follow this…
      If you folow this link you can calculate the cost of importing it
      https://www.ros.ie/evrt-enquiry/vrtenquiry.html?execution=e1s2
      You can book the VRT your Bike on this link, https://www.ncts.ie/1195

    2. John McCarthy says:

      It is not too painfull If it is old payments are not very high go to vrt calculator and you can make out not sure about outside EU but I would say if you are moving here it may not cost anything/or very little. But you will not be able to sell it for a year.
      John

  2. Desmond. Wisley says:

    I want to import a new 50cc scooter from Thailand, can it be done

    1. Andrew Stones says:

      Actually very easy to import a motorcycle from Thailand, certainly not easy the other way round! To be honest I spent 16 years living in Thailand and I can’t remember ever seeing new 50cc bikes in Thailand, the smallest I ever saw was 100cc but anyway the import process is the same.

      You will need proof of previous registration in Thailand (green book) or the paperwork that the Thai shop would use to get the green book, however after years and years of dealing with Thai motorcycle and car showrooms in Thailand I an tell you that 99% of them cannot get the proper papers for 30-90 days after you buy the bike, this is why there is a delay in Thailand in getting the green book.. and the reason is because the dealers have the bikes on credit from manufacturer and even though you paid the dealer, the dealer cannot get the registration paperwork until they have paid for the bike themselves and they are usually on 60 or 90 day credit, if you have not yet bought the bike you are unlikely to be able to get the papers quickly.

      In Ireland you will need to do a proper import document, any agent will do that for about 100 euros, then you pay some duty and VAT to customs, get a receipt and take that to the registration centre in Ireland.. Its quite easy, but I would be very very surprised if it worked out cheaper than buying a 50cc in Ireland.

  3. Terence says:

    Hi what about an electric motorcycle from the usa .
    Regards Terence

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Series production electric motorcycles are exempt from VRT until 31 December 2021.

  4. Gary Cooney says:

    It might be easier to get the trike approved in Northern Ireland, Book it in for an SVA, or find a dealer in the North that can do it for you.
    Here is the link
    https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/motorcycle-single-vehicle-approval-msva-scheme

  5. Gary Cooney says:

    Hi you will VRT and VAT, The bike would need to have 6,000 km or more on the clock not to attract vat.

  6. Gary Cooney says:

    Hi,Have you a COC for it?, You won’t have to pay taxes on it if it was your for at least 6 months before entering Ireland. Our Vehicle registration tax is paid on cc, You should be exempt.

  7. Gary Cooney says:

    If you want it on the road you need to get it certified as roadworthy, Michael Sweeney engineers can do this for you, Google them, The VRT won’t change or be any less.

  8. John mohan says:

    Hi could anyone tell me about the new rules on taking a bike into Ireland from the UK,are you charged vat along with the duty,looking at a Suzuki gsx1250 2012 what would the total cost to duty pay
    Thanks john

    1. Henry foley says:

      Does the vat on second hand bike have to be paid at the port the minute you land

      1. Gary Cooney says:

        Yes, you need to pay VAT and Duty, Best get a customs clearing agent to arrange to do it for you, You will need an SAD (single administrative document). These guys can arrange it all for you, easycustoms.ie/
        Hope this helps.
        Thanks
        Gary

  9. Cristina says:

    I want to buy a motorbike in my home country which is spain and travel to Ireland (where I live) on it. Is the same process?

  10. Thomas says:

    Hi Guys,
    I have to buy a brand new motor bike 650cc from Germany. How the VRT and VAT work in Ireland?

  11. Kevin barry says:

    I plan on importing a 2013 motorcycle with 25k miles from the UK will this be subject to VAT if so what is this vat calculated on

  12. Jerry says:

    I bought a 2010 F4 motorbike in Germany from a private seller. The bike has 1,700km on it. I went to the VRT office and they said I need to pay VAT including VRT. How is Ireland allowed to charge me VAT for a bike that was bought in Italy in 2010 which had the VAT paid already. The motorbike (goods) are already in the EU for free circulation but as it’s under 6,000km (stupid rule and shouldn’t apply to motorbikes IMO) I have to pay Irish VAT? So now VAT is being paid twice on an EU motorbike. This to me sounds illegal or at least it should be reasonably possible to reclaim the paid VAT at time of purchase in 2010. (Ya, best of luck trying to get money from the Italian government). Can someone please chime in with their thoughts? Time to route out these cowboys in Irish government!

    1. Edmond Walsh says:

      Welcome to ireland.

    2. Never tell lies says:

      Odometer could have be replaced with a new unit, you would have to have a letter from main dealer stating that the odometer was replaced with a new unit and the “correct mileage” is current reading plus 6543kms….

  13. Shine says:

    Hi Riders,

    I am new to Ireland. My husband wants to bring his Harley 2019 , 1200cc ( 15000 KMs) from UAE to Ireland, as he comes here in a month . Will he be able to register it in Ireland with International license, at first? What will be the insurance amount like?
    What are the charges other than VRT and shipment? Customs??? Appreciate your valuable advice . Where should I go to find out about the actual cost of the whole procedure.

    Thanks
    Shine

      1. Shine says:

        Thank you Mr. Garry for the info. That was really helpful.

  14. Shine says:

    Hi Climent,

    Would you please tell me what were the procedures or costs for bringing your bike from USA to Ireland ?

    We have one to bring from UAE to Ireland.

    Thanks
    Shine

  15. John Creegan says:

    I wish to import a 60 year old motorcycle from England. I know VRT is zero but are there other charges?

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi John, You’ll more than likely have to pay 23% vat on your invoice price.
      Gary

      1. Darren says:

        This is surprising. Would a 60-year old bike not be considered old enough and second-hand and therefore avoid VAT?
        I am planning to bring my second-hand ’06 Ducati with 35k in, but have no sales receipt, so how would VAT be calculated?

  16. Abith David says:

    How Didi you managed it, because I have the same situation. If you have idea please share with me. Thanks

    1. eugenepfarrell says:

      Hi, it’s crazy that 6,000 is required on a bike the same as a car when one considers that most bikes only clock-up a fraction of car miles per year….has anyone found any wiggle room with the VAT. I just bought a 2nd hand bike which has less than 6,000km……if’s there’s no wiggle room, I’m gonna have to take the long way home before a cross the border into the state ;-(

      1. Gary Cooney says:

        Hi
        No way around the VAT.

  17. Brian Mc Loughlin says:

    I want to import a motorbike from Italy. What documents do I need to have from the seller that are required by the VRT people here.

    1. Sir,
      Iam Neethumol Ealias, nurse, working in Duplin. I like to bring one 125 cc Activa scooter from India to Duplin shortly. The scooter will be a new one. Kindly advise me the required papers and proceedures.
      Thanking you.
      Neethumol Ealias

      1. Gary Cooney says:

        An appointment for a pre-registration examination of the vehicle must be made with the NCTS within 7 days of the vehicle entering the State. Registration must be completed within 30 days of the vehicle entering the State.
        Customs Duty and VAT will be payable.
        A Certificate of Conformity is required for previously unregistered vehicles. Check you can get this first.

      2. Gary Cooney says:

        Hi I’d suggest you buy the scooter from a dealer in Dublin, Buy the time you have it imported the cost will be higher.
        I can sell you a new 125cc scooter for €2500 delivered to Dublin.
        Thanks
        Gary

    2. Gary Cooney says:

      You need a receipt for the purchase and a Tax book.

    3. David Dalton says:

      I , you will need a receipt for the purchase of the bike,the log book for the bike from the seller.,(this will need to be translated into English for vrt office).some sort of proof of date of entry into Ireland also needed.after that it’s straight forward enough.ring vrt office and make an appointment to bring bike for registration.

  18. Ashutosh says:

    I wish to import my 200 cc bike from India to Ireland. The bike is almost 4 years old now. What all charges do I need to pay and how can the transportation of the bike be done?

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      You will pay Duty, VAT and VRT. Duty will be 8% of the price of the bike and the shipping, VAT at 23% will be charged on the final price. VRT is be €400.
      If you don’t have a COC, Certificate of Conformity revenue won’t register it.

    2. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi
      I suggest you look for a transport company, Get the bike crated up and find a company thet offer LCL, Part loads. You will need a COC. The bike will attract Duty at 6% on the purchase price and transport, plus your agency fees and Vat at 23%.
      Gary

    3. Edmond Walsh says:

      just sell your bike in india and use the money to buy a scooter in ireland,but i must admit that the brand and type of scooter in ireland is very limited.

  19. Brendan says:

    Hi

    Great site really useful, thanks for all your help

    I am looking to buy a 30 year plus 750cc motorbike from Holland, from your site it looks like I will not have to pay vrt or vat on it, is that right

    Thanks

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Brendan, You would need to have more than 6,000km on the clock or you could get caught for VAT, It should be free of VRT.

    2. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi
      I think you’re right, Holland is in the EU so as long as the bike was registered there then you won’t have vat to pay, on a 30 year old bike the VRT is 0, You will need a receipt for the purchase.
      Gary

  20. Declan Murphy says:

    Ok quick one.
    I have an 1987 600cc motorbike with 6400 mile on it any idea on cost to bring into Ireland from Northern Irelan??
    Decky

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Declan
      If the bike has been registered in the North for more than 6 months you only need to pay VRT which should be €0
      Gary

  21. Tony says:

    Hi.. is there a point of contact for where a bike will land when delivered from Japan into Dublin port??

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Tony,
      I’d suggest your shipping agent would be the one to ask.
      Gary

  22. Kris says:

    Hello. I booked vrt. What does it mean? Where can l get it? Thank you. For used vehicles, you must provide documentation approved by the Revenue commissioners confirming the CO2 emissions. (only applicable to category A vehicles)

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi
      You can book a VRT appointment here https://www.ncts.ie/vrt-home/
      You will need a C02 emissions currently don’t apply to motorcycles.

      Gary

  23. James says:

    Hi, looking to bring in a 2008 49cc scooter with 7500klm from Japan.
    Am I right in thinking this is vat exempt? Will I need a coc?
    Revenue vrt calc says vrt will be €9.

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi James
      You will need a COC, I’d think this would attract duty and vat. Duty from Japan is 2.7% for a bike up to 50cc and the Taric code is 8711100000
      Gary

  24. Al says:

    Hi, i am looking into importing a 4 year old motorbike from the UK, the bike currently has 18000 miles on it, so could you please clarify if I would need to pay vat please.

    As the bike is over 1 year old, and has over 6000 miles on the clock I have read that the VAT will be zero, however there is some conflicting information out there.

    Any help would be greatly appriciated.

    Regards,
    Al

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Al
      As the UK is now outside Europe and Ireland isn’t all good imported are subject to Duty and Vat. If the bike was registered in Northern Ireland for 6 months prior to importing it neither would apply.
      This is my understanding, Hope this helps
      Gary

  25. Paul says:

    Hi Gary

    Looking to bring in a 2012 Harley Davidson sporster 1200 with 10,000 km on clock from the US. Value €6,000. Would I be right in saying VRT would €1,550 less 80% discount because of age? Any other hidden revenue rabbit holes on costs? Thanks in advance Paul

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Paul, You can work out the VRT from this link, https://www.ros.ie/evrt-enquiry/vrtenquiry.html?execution=e2s2, It should be €155, However you will have to pay duty and vat on the import. Duty is 6% and will be on the receipt price from the purchase, you will also have to pay 6% duty on the transport cost of getting the bike here. Vat will then be charged at 23% of the total, You will need a clearing agent and have to pay their charges, customs clearance, Agency, ISPS, THC etc.
      Taric code is 8711500000
      Hope this helps
      Gary

      1. Paul says:

        Thanks Gary so much for your help. Kind regards. Paul

  26. Peter Downey says:

    Hi I got a new full electric moped and I have a Cóc document and looking to get it registered for road use

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Peter.
      You need to make an appointment to pay the VAT and VRT, The Moped is currently exempt from VRT if registered before 31st December 2023. Vat is paypable at 23% unless you can show the vat was paid already.
      To make the appointment, follow this link https://www.ncts.ie
      Hope this helps
      Gary

  27. Hadrien says:

    Hi,
    Thanks for this info, it’s really helpful.
    I’m just wondering how does it work with the date of entry: I rode the motorbike from France and took the ferry to N. Ireland, then spent there a few days before entering the country.
    Should I use the invoice from the ferry company as shipping detail, even if I did spent time in N. Ireland?

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi
      Yes this will definitely be helpful.

  28. António Cunha says:

    Hi

    I want to import my mash125cc bike from Portugal the bike has ±6000 kms and over a year old. What taxes do I have to pay? And to whom do I report to drive it legally?

  29. Joseph Reynolds says:

    Bringing a 1985 Yamaha DT 125 in from UK which was brought in from France but never registered in UK so still on French logbook.
    My understanding is as over 30years, only 5% VAT to pay or should this be VAT exempt?

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Joseph
      Great question. VRT is calculated on a sliding scale for Motorcycles.
      A 30 year old bike is exempt from VRT.
      I think you’d have to pay the standard rate of vat on your purchase and that is 23%
      Gary

  30. Stephen says:

    Hi Gary
    Looking at importing a motorcycle from the uk. It was first registered in 98, brought to uk as grey import and re registered in 2010. It’s done over 20k Km and is rvf 400. Price is £5600 . will i need a coc to register it in Ireland and will it be liable for vat /vrt.
    Kind regards
    Steve

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Steve
      If you have a UK tax book you won’t need a COC. You will be Liable for Vat of 23% on the purchase price and duty of 8%. The duty is calculated on the landed cost, that means the purchase price and the cost of getting it, This could be the cost of the courier or you boat ticket. Vat is then charged on top of that.
      Hope that helps.
      Thanks
      Gary

      1. Colleen says:

        Hi Gary, Are you sure about that? I’m bringing a custom trike in from the UK, it’s registered as a trike on the UK registration cert – so I won’t need a CoC?

  31. Paul says:

    Hi ,

    If I were to purchase a privately owned bike in the UK and drive it back to Ireland , can I pay customs / duty charges at the port on the day ?

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi No, You need to make an appointment with the NCTS
      Click here for more information from Revenue.ie
      You get 30 days from the date the vehicle enters the state.

  32. Laszlo Geczo says:

    Hi,

    I’m looking to import a custom bike from NI, year 1998, 650cc. Am I correct in thinking that I only have to pay VRT?
    What about the insurance? Can I get insurance on it while it still has the NI plates?
    Thank you!

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi
      Yes provided the bike was in NI before Brexit.
      You can insure in on a NI plate on a temporary basis. You get 30 days to VRT it from the day you import it.

      Thanks

      Gary

      1. Laszlo Geczo says:

        Thanks Gary!

  33. Paul Croasdell says:

    Hi I just bought a bsa aerial 3 49cc moped with English reg and its 49 years old. The only document I have is the. UK registration form. How do I register this bike in Ireland. Thank you

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Paul
      Book it in for VRT, Bring your driver licence, Proof of PPS, Utility bill, Purchase invoice and Tax book. That should suffice. The VRT value will be Zero. I think you may be charged 8% Duty and 23% VAT.
      They might look for a COC, hopefully not.
      Let me know how you get on.
      Thanks
      Gary

  34. KC says:

    Hi. I am considering buying a used 2007 motorcycle in NI, The bike is costing 2900stg and is on an English Reg plate with 25000 miles. Although the owner has had it in NI for a while it seems he’s having a problem with proving that which i dont understand. If i went ahead and bought the bike. how much would it potentially cost with VRT. Vat ect, TIA

  35. Brian says:

    Hi Gary, hope you are well smashing site great information, but of course I do have a question. I am looking at importing an Xl 1000 varadero from the UK, can you tell me what will I have to pay on it as in vrt, vat, customs charges etc etc. i’am thinking of driving the bike back myself, https://www.autotrader.co.uk/bike-details/202303275679342?advertising-location=at_bikes&include-delivery-option=on&make=Honda&model=XL1000V%20Varadero&page=3&postcode=BT35%207NB&fromsra

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Brian
      The bike is 2009 and will attract duty at 10%, Vat at 23%. These costs will be on the purchase price plus the transport home. VRT when new was €1346, so you’ll get 90% of it as the bike is more than 10 years old.
      The dealer may credit you 20% of the purchase price as the bike is being exported to Europe. Its worth asking. Have a look at these links
      Gary
      https://www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-on-goods-exported-from-the-uk-notice-703
      https://www.gov.uk/guidance/personal-export-scheme-notice-707#:~:text=The%20Personal%20Export%20Scheme%20allows,motor%20vehicles%20into%20some%20countries.

  36. Jamie says:

    Hi Gary,

    I am looking at importing a mt07 from japan to ireland I know I have to pay the vrt and the shipping on the bike. The bike is 2017 with 7000km on the clock. Is there any other charges like customs duty or any other charges I need to know about and if so how are they calculated. Thanks so much for the help.
    Kind Regards Jamie

  37. Jim BOB says:

    Hi any idea how much it would cost to bring a VW trike in from North, its a 2002

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi
      Duty rate will depend on the cc, If it is over 800cc the rate is 6%, VRT should be 0% and Vat will be charged at 23% of the purchase price including the duty.
      Gary

  38. Wayne Scullion says:

    HI Andy
    Im in the same boat,about to bring a bike same year and similiar mileage into Ireland.How did you fare out?

  39. Joseph Curran says:

    Hi Gary great site. Very informative and straightforward. I’m looking to purchase a 2017 Honda cb650f from a chap in Wexford.
    The bike is on European plates at the minute and I would like to vrt it myself to save having an extra owner on the logbook and also to get my county reg.
    I’ve calculated the vrt to be €1000 less 70% due to its age.
    This comes to €300. Does this seem correct to you or would there be any vat or add on tariffs that are not immediately obvious.?
    Any information would be greatly appreciated.
    Thanks in advance. Joe curran

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Joe
      You’ll need a purchase receipt and a COC (certificate of conformity) when you go to import it. I think the duty rate if the bike came from Europe is 0% but you will be charged VAT at 23% on the purchase price. VAT isn’t charged on the VRT.
      Hope this helps.
      Thanks
      Gary

  40. Ian says:

    Hi Gary,

    Thanks for all the informative answers here. Im thinking of bringing my 2022 Kawasaki ZX25R home with me from Indonesia to Ireland and unclear if ill run into issues related to emissions. Its a 250cc inline 4 ~50hp, I have heard that emissions regulations are what has historically prevented it from being imported. Its only available in a few asian countries. Any ideas?

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Ian
      Have you a COC (certificate of conformity) for the bike, ie, is it homologated for use in Europe. That maybe the problem.
      Gary

  41. Ben says:

    Hi Gary, I have a 1992 BMW K75 RT which I bought in the Uk in February 2022 for £3,600. I am a UK citizen, but I have a house in Kerry and a PPS number though my main residence is in the UK, at least for now. The new ULEZ zone will mean I cannot ride my bike in and around London so I want to re-register the K75 in Ireland and keep it in my Kerry house. The bike is currently here: I brought it over in May ’22 and it had mechanical problems and I had health problems (I am in my 60s) so I was unable to take the bike back. Can you tell me if I can re-register the bike here or do I have to take it back to the UK (where it needs an MOT) and if I can re-register here, what charges would be applicable? Also, if this can be done, where can I find an agent to help me do it? Many thanks in advance for your help. Ben

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Ben

      Book it in for VRT as soon as possible.
      I’ll email you directly.

      Gary

  42. Evan says:

    Hi Gary
    I have a 2016 Mt07 i plan to import from Australia to Ireland.Been living here the last 4 years. It has less than 5000klms.
    Just wondering do you know what paper work i will need and what vrt or vat will need to be payed as im a bit confused with the whole thing.
    Many Thanks
    Evan

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Evan
      I’d suggest you apply for a transfer of residence (tor). This way you should have no VRT, Duty or VAT to pay. You need to have owned the bike for at least 6 months before you bring it in and you need to keep it for 12 months.
      Follow this link, Apply well in advance.
      Hope this helps.
      Gary

      https://www.revenue.ie/en/vrt/reliefs-and-exemptions/transfer-of-residence.aspx

  43. Andrius says:

    What paperwork should I present on importing motorcycle from Netherlands?

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Andrius

      You need proof of entry into the state, a COC, SAD, original proof of purchase, drivers licence, proof of your PPS number and a recent utility bill.

      Thanks

      Gary

  44. Hi Gary
    I have a gsxr 1000 that’s in the country since 2015 it’s on Uk plates it’s 2004 and there’s 23000 on the clock will it cost much to put it on Irish plates and what’s involved
    Thanks
    Patrick

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Patrick
      If the bike was registered to a UK mainland address, You will be required to pay import duty, VAT and VRT.
      You’ll will also need a purchase invoice or receipt from when you purchased it.
      If the Bike was registered to someone from Northern Ireland, Your’ll only pay the VRT.
      Hope this helps
      Gary

  45. Aaron S says:

    Hi Gary,

    thank you for all the information regarding importing Motorcycles.

    Im looking at buying a second hand motorcycle from a private seller in the UK. Do I need to make a customs declaration first.. or can I bring the bike over and then do all the paperwork. I’ve been reading so many sites on this subject that I’ve confused myself.

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Aaron

      You get 30 days to clear it from when it enters the country.

      Thanks

      Gary

  46. john says:

    Hi Gary,

    Very informative article, thank you very much for posting.
    I have a unique situation:
    So, I have a CAT B write off bike (frame is broken) and I was thinking of rebuilding, well building a new bike from the salvagable parts.

    My plan, is to buy a frame from France (it has all papers) and build a new bike (will be same as factory, not custom or chopped) so when I am finished it will be an “original factory” model

    I cannot seem to find any info regarding registering the frame, once i import it and get a new licence plate etc, I can only find info on importing an entire bike

    Is it the same process, or because its a bare frame there is a different process do you know?

    Thank you and have a lovely weekend!
    John

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi John
      My thoughts are as follows.
      You will import the frame as a part, You import the bike (broken or not), You must be able to get the tax book to register it in the South.
      Once you reframing the bike you will need it certified to undo the CAT B write off. Michael Sweeney can help with this https://sweeneyassessors.com/
      The repair will not get you a new 2023 bike registration, you will only be able to register it using the previous tax book changing the chassis number.
      If you have no taxbook with your CAT B, Apply for it to the relevant parties using the engineers report to show proof it is now repaired.
      The alternative is to get the bike IVA’d, here They may still require proof of birth, ie when the Bike was originally manufactured, its Type approval ETC
      Hope this helps
      Gary

  47. Hi Gary,
    I’m looking at buying a Yamaha yzf600r thundercat it’s on UK plates but it’s currently in Galway. The man selling it is unsure of how long it’s in the country as he bought it privately. He has the V5 logbook there, what tax’s and fee’s I need to pay to register if I bought it from him? It current has 13,200 miles . Thanks

  48. I forgot to add it’s a 2002 bike

  49. Nico says:

    Hi Gary,

    I would like to buy a used 2022 (after brexit) motorbike with 2000Kms from NI, I know I must pay VRT and VAT but should I pay Customs Duty as well if the bike was first registered in NI and not imported from GB? As fire as I can read proof of declaration of duties when a vehicle has been imported from GB to NI must be shown when registering the bike in Ireland, now I’m wondering, what if the bike was first bought in NI, would the customs automatically declared?

    thanks a lot for your help in advanced

  50. PaulS says:

    Hello, is it possible to import a vintage moped from the UK that has no V5 document? thanks.

  51. Keith says:

    Hi
    I’m thinking of importing a royal Enfield 500 from India into Ireland
    I understand the vat and the vrt but what is the likelihood of getting COC
    for a Enfield from India.
    If the bike is vintage will it still need a COC.
    THANKS.

  52. Travis says:

    do you still need a COC if you are importing a bike you’ve owned? so I’ve lived in Ireland for 2 years and 4 months and I’m finally shipping my storage unit with my motorcycle that I bought in 2016 brand new. so will I be able to just take my pink slip to the NCT?

  53. Sean says:

    I have a xt350 1993 on French plates I want to vrt to get Irish plates I don’t think I have a grey card whitch is a French logbook I do have passport for the bike it was entered into the country a good few years ago is it possible to still get Irish logbook and vrt

  54. Cian says:

    Hi Gary or Anybody! I want to import a 2021 Honda XR650L from the US into Ireland. Honda in Dublin told me that this bike can’t be sold in Ireland because of the emissions. However there was one for sale fully Road registered about a year ago on done deal so it’s clearly possible. A bike shop told me that they think second hand versions like the 2021 model can be brought in if there is the correct paperwork. Is this true ?and do you know is there a way of doing this and what paperwork would be needed to get it through?
    regards

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Cain,
      We currently have no regulation on emissions so I think that information may be incorrect. It might not be CE compliant for Honda to import them as a new vehicle.
      You need to make an appointment to have your bike inspected within 7 days of it entering the State, so have the following lined up.
      You need a COC, (Certificate of Conformity)
      Previous registration document,
      A purchase invoice
      An SAD document
      Proof of ID, (Passport, Driver licence)
      Official document showing your PPS number
      Current Utility bill

  55. Nicola Sinclair says:

    My husband has been left a Harley Davidson from his brother who has passed away .it is registered in the Uk .how do we go about registering it In Ireland

  56. Aoibheann Ni Ealai says:

    Hi,
    Im looking to buy a scooter thats currently on swedish reg plates in ireland, I know the VRT should only cost me 9 euro but just wondering if anyone knew if I would have to pay vat on it (2010 moped and has done well over 6000km) ?
    thank you

  57. druma69 says:

    Hi there,
    If I purchase a bike with less than 6000km from a dealer in EU and ride the bike for a few months in Spain before importing to Ireland, is mileage calculation done at time of import into the state vs when I bought it? (I have a valid address and NIE number for spain). Dealer invoice would state approx 2500km

    Thanks

  58. James says:

    hi Garry I bought a mash 400 it’s a 2015with a UK reg from a private seller on done deal last Tuesday June 10th I have the v5c document and mot till January 2025 do you think I’ll be able to register it without any problem I’m kinda of worried to be honest regards James.

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Yes you can register it, For something like this I’d suggest you contact easycustoms.ie They can give you the SAD document you will need for VRT.

      Thanks

      Gary

      1. Adam Kylczyk says:

        Hi Gary, I see you helped a lot of people on here. Thank you for that.

        Recently I moved to Ireland from Poland and I am having a real hard time selling my scooter in Poland. Even though the price is low, no one is interested, and I don’t know why. If I can’t sell it in summer, it has to sit for another year, and I don’t want that.

        I can calculate the VRT (Which is really low, considering it is a 2016 model) but I couldn’t find any information on how to calculate the VAT. I see it is 23% but how is it determined? I bought it as second hand and I made a very simple contract with the previous seller (This is how it works in Poland) when I was buying. I think we agreed on a symbolical amount (Like 1/10 of the actual price) and signed it off like that. In that case how would the customs calculate the VAT amount? I am thinking about importing my scooter only because I can’t sell it in Poland, not because it is easier (or cheaper) to bring than find another one in here, so the VAT amount would have a big impact on my decision.

        Many thanks in advance.

  59. Ian Horan says:

    Hello Gary, im looking to re register a Suzuki dr 650 registered in Australia, its been in my name since July 2019, I entered Europe from Morocco at Christmas.
    because its been in my name for over 6 months would I be right in saying I don’t have to pay vrt? also im not sure if you’re familiar with the carnet de passage, but I’ve been travelling on that and when I import it into Ireland I need to get them to sign it off so I can get a refund from AA Australia. what are your thoughts on all of the above? also I don’t think I need a coc? also there is well over 6000km’s on the clock

  60. James says:

    hi Garry how are you ? I hired a custom agent to clear my bike I got all the documents back on email paid revenue for clearance. but I’m a a bit of a dunce what I’m looking at to be honest on these documents I booked my bike for VRT and I was looking at the list what to bring and one stood out and that was a VRTVPD2 form to fill out .just wondering if one of the documents I have which shows the seller and address on top my details are in the middle and custom agent on bottom all on left hand side of form which also shows bike information and lots of numbers and dates just like to know is that good enough for VRT the bike.kind regards james

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi
      https://www.revenue.ie/en/vrt/documents/vrt/form-vrtvpd2.pdf
      Give me a call on 074 9177348, I’ll help you as best I can
      Gary

  61. peter dunne says:

    Hi Gary, im looking to bring a 2014 vfr800 in from northern ireland. it has been with current owner there for 2 years on english plates.
    can you tell me what costs are expected in importing this?
    kind regards,
    peter

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Peter
      We spoke on the phone about this.
      Any concerns come back to me.

      Thank
      Gary

  62. Shane says:

    Hi Gary

    I’m looking to go to the UK and buy a 2007 Bonneville 865cc with 50k miles valued at 3500e

    Could you advise me on what I’d have to pay to get her registered in Ireland? VRT, VAT etc

    Many thanks

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi Shane
      Can I assume you are going to the UK main land and not Northern Ireland?
      That being the case, You will need to pay duty and vat and custom charges to do the SAD.
      Duty is 10% of the landed price, (purchase price plus the cost of getting the bike to Ireland).
      Vat will be charged at 23% on top of that.
      VRT will be €121 as the bike is 2007 and gets a 90% depreciation allowance. You need a customs agent to submits an SAD document digitally to Revenue on your behalf.

      You need a purchase receipt, ferry receipt, SAD, Photo ID, Proof of PPS number and proof of address. These guys are experts at it, http://www.easycustoms.ie, give them a call and they’ll do all the paperwork for you.

      Best of luck

      Gary

      1. Shane Lindsay says:

        Thanks Gary! Appreciate the response

  63. Martin says:

    Hi Gary
    You have a great site and seem to give very helpful information .
    22 yrs ago approx I bought a bmwr80rt at an auction in Uk £1750 put it in van back to Ireland parked up . Between work , kids bad health never got time to use . Now light at end of tunnel have a little time for myself but don’t know what is best to do as I have all the paperwork reg docs etc for bike but still on Uk plates can you advise what I should do an approx cost ?
    1994 reg 45000 on the clock

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      PM Sent

  64. Chandrakant Sharma says:

    can we import motorcycle from India and what would be the total cost for 2k euro priced used motorcycle to be imported to Dublin

  65. Tom Jenkins says:

    Hi Gary,

    I have a 2004 Honda CR450F dirt bike (scrambler) which I have owned for the last two years, as it is an off highway vehicle, it was never registered, therefore I have no title documents for this motorcycle, only a bill of sale, I am returning to Ireland from the USA (Irish citizen) and would like to bring this bike with me, I am confused with VRT, VAT and duties associated with this move on this motorcycle.
    Further to this I also restore old offroad motorcycles and would also like to bring my 1978 YZ 250 dirt bike (project) this will be in pieces as it is currently a work in progress.

    Any advice will be much appreciated!

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      Hi

      If you have been living out of the country, can I assume you are moving back. This being the case, get it done correctly and employ a customs agent.
      The CR450F is not road legal so can’t be road registered. Therefore, VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) doesn’t apply. You shouldn’t have to pay VAT or Duty on your move home. http://www.easycustoms.ie are the guys to help. I think you should declare the YZ250 at the same time, its an off road bike so won’t be road registered in the future.
      Hope this helps.
      Thanks
      Gary

  66. pat kearns says:

    Hi Garry great site, have 1977 yamaha on uk plates,all paperwork lost.was brought into ireland 1999 been stored in shed ever since.Have reg number and last tax disc dated 1998 ,Would like to restore as very origional bike.Any advise on obtaining registration in Ireland would be greatly appreciated. THANKS PAT.

  67. Jack says:

    Hi I am going to import 3 bikes (a 13 year old S1000RR, a 23 year old R1 and a 10 year old FJR 1300) from the USA into Ireland, all 3 bikes have aftermarket exhaust systems which are louder than stock, will that cause the bikes to fail the NCT test, if so if I’ll fit a OEM system to each bike prior to shipping which hopefully will that take care of the problem. You’re providing a valuable service here, thanks

    1. Gary Cooney says:

      There is no NCT for Motorcycles in the south of Ireland

  68. Arthur Boyton says:

    looking to bring in from Germany, 1982 yamaha xj750 seca, can you give me ball park figure on courier prices please

  69. AH says:

    Hi Gary, smashing and very informative site!

    I just bought a BMW K75 from Holland. It’s from 1992, has 2 previous owners (both Dutch) and 56,500 kms. Seller says COC is not available or necessary due to the age (pre-1996). The bike already has a Dutch EU export license plate.
    I will have it shipped directly to a garage to have it fully serviced so it’ll be off the road for a while (shipping cost around €500).
    I understand no VRT, Duty or VAT are due to age and importing from the EU. Is that correct?
    Will any vat or duties be due to Revenue on the shipping costs?
    What paperwork will I need to register it in Ireland?
    Do I need to apply to NCTS before arriving in Ireland, as soon as it arrives or when the garage finishes the work?
    Can I then resell the bike immediately or do I need to keep it for a minimum amount of time?
    Thanks in advance,
    AH

  70. Messias says:

    Hello dear,
    IS there any change in the rules recently? I am trying to import a BMW k75 1992 with around 70 thousand miles and some custom agents are telling me I need to pay VAT on it. Can anyone help me with this issue please?

  71. Kathleen says:

    I bought a Harley in the uk in 2012. I want to clear it now, I think it has approx 3500 miles on clock. Will I need to clear customs seeing as I have owned it from new? And what if I don’t have proof of entry into Ireland?

    1. Gary says:

      You will need to pay Duty, Because it is under 5000 miles vat is chargable, Best talk to easycustoms.ie and see if they can help.

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