Bringing your car to Cyprus
Whether you can bring your car tax-free depends on three things: where you owned it, how long you've owned it, and whether you qualify for transfer-of-residence relief.
Cyprus drives on the LEFT — UK and South African right-hand-drive imports work; other LHD imports need conversion. RHD vehicles from mainland Europe are technically importable but resale is harder.
Transfer-of-residence relief?
- · Owned ≥6 months: ✓
- · At previous residence ≥6 months: ✓
- · Permanent move: ✓
If TOR applies
VAT and registration tax both waived.
If TOR does not apply
- · Registration tax · €1,500
- · VAT (19%) · €3,800
The fees in plain English
Registration tax (Excise duty): based on engine size, CO₂ emissions, and age. A 2.0L petrol family car can be €700–€2,200; a luxury SUV can exceed €5,000. Older cars are taxed higher (CO₂ surcharge).
VAT: 19% on the customs value if it doesn't qualify for transfer-of-residence relief.
Transfer of residence relief: waives both VAT and registration tax IF you owned and used the car at your previous residence for ≥6 months, you've moved your residence permanently, and you've owned the car ≥6 months before transfer. Strict.
MOT (annual): €40 once due. Cypriot insurance third-party from €280/yr.