Importing an electric car from the UK to Ireland can still offer excellent value — but since Brexit, the process has become far more complex. Customs declarations, VAT, VRT calculations, Northern Ireland rules, strict deadlines — one mistake can be costly.
At DC EV, we specialise in helping customers import electric cars from the UK to Ireland, backed by over 20 years of experience importing vehicles into Ireland. We handle the entire process so your EV arrives legally, correctly, and without surprises.
20+ years importing vehicles into Ireland
EV-specific knowledge and tax understanding
Clear, transparent pricing
No hidden surprises
In many cases, yes — particularly for nearly-new EVs or models with limited availability in Ireland. However, once customs duty, VAT, VRT, and transport costs are included, the savings can reduce significantly. We calculate the full cost before you commit, so there are no surprises.
If the vehicle is coming from Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales), import VAT usually applies.
If the car is from Northern Ireland and qualifies under private-use rules, you may not have to pay import VAT — but strict conditions apply.
VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) is based on Revenue’s estimated Irish market value of the car (OMSP), not what you paid for it. The rate applied depends on emissions and current EV reliefs. We estimate your likely VRT before proceeding with the import.
Great Britain imports are treated as non-EU imports and usually involve customs declarations, VAT, and possibly duty.
Northern Ireland vehicles may avoid customs duty and VAT — but only if they meet Revenue’s private-use requirements.
You must book a VRT inspection within 7 days of the vehicle entering Ireland and complete registration within 30 days. Missing these deadlines can result in penalties.
Yes. We provide a fully managed UK EV import service, including sourcing, transport, customs paperwork, VAT and VRT compliance, and Irish registration — backed by over 20 years of experience importing cars into Ireland.
We’ll assess the vehicle, estimate total import costs including VRT, and manage the process from purchase to Irish registration.
