Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. One of the many things expats need to consider is how to import their car into the new country. If you’re moving to Portugal as an expat and want to bring your car with you, this blog post will guide you through the process of importing your car into Portugal.
- Check if your car is eligible for import
Before importing your car to Portugal, it’s important to check if your car is eligible for import. You can import any car that is less than six months old and has less than 6,000 km on the odometer. If your car is more than six months old or has more than 6,000 km, you’ll need to pay a registration tax, which can be quite high.
- Get the necessary documentation
To import your car to Portugal, you’ll need to have the following documents:
- Original vehicle registration document
- Purchase invoice
- Proof of ownership
- Insurance certificate
- Technical inspection report (MOT)
If your car is financed, you’ll also need a certificate of ownership from the finance company.
- Choose a shipping method
Once you have all the necessary documentation, you’ll need to choose a shipping method to transport your car to Portugal. You can either ship your car by sea or by road. If you choose to ship your car by sea, you’ll need to find a reputable international shipping company that will transport your car to Portugal. If you choose to ship your car by road, you’ll need to find a professional car transporter that can safely transport your car across Europe.
- Pay the taxes and fees
When your car arrives in Portugal, you’ll need to pay the necessary taxes and fees. This includes the registration tax if your car is over six months old or has more than 6,000 km, as well as the value-added tax (VAT) and customs duty. The amount you’ll need to pay depends on the value of your car.
- Register your car in Portugal
After paying the taxes and fees, you’ll need to register your car in Portugal. This involves getting a Portuguese license plate, registering for Portuguese car insurance, and obtaining a Portuguese vehicle registration certificate.
In conclusion, importing your car into Portugal as an expat can be a complex process, but it’s worth it if you want to have your own car in your new home country. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you’ll be able to successfully import your car into Portugal and enjoy the freedom of having your own vehicle.
