Germany Import Regulations

General Information & Import Requirements

• • Drive Orientation: Only Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are permitted for importation into Germany.
• • Technical Inspection: Every vehicle must pass the Fahrzeug-Hauptuntersuchung (TÜV) before it can be legally registered.
• • Age Restriction: There are currently no specific year restrictions mentioned for importing vehicles into Germany.
• • Temporary Use: Imported vehicles may be driven with their original home license plates for up to 12 months, after which German registration is mandatory.

Shipping & Logistics

• • Destination Ports: Hamburg and Bremerhaven.
• • Shipment Details: Approximately 24–34 days via RORO.
• • Vessel Schedule: Monthly frequency.

Duties & Taxes

• • Import Duty: Standard rate of 10% calculated on the Cost & Freight (C&F) value.
• • VAT: Standard 19% rate calculated on the C&F value.
• • Kfz-Steuer: A special motor vehicle tax is due immediately following successful vehicle registration.

Criteria for Duty Exemptions

• • The importer must have lived outside the European Union for at least one year.
• • The vehicle must have been purchased and driven outside the EU for at least 6 months prior to import.
• • The vehicle must be for personal use only and retained in Germany for at least one year.
• • The importer must be a registered German citizen.

Required Documentation

• • Original Passport or ID and Residence registration confirmation.
• • Original Vehicle Registration papers and Title copy.
• • TÜV technical inspection and official emissions certificates.
• • Proof of ownership (Bill of Sale or Invoice if owned for less than 6 months).
• • Insurance card from the country of origin and third-party liability insurance for customs.
• • Official Export Permit from the origin country.