Hi,
I imported my car recently and the following is basically correct.
I'd never do it again regardless of the savings.
try olx.pt to check car prices they've started to fall over the last year.
The only thing it doesn't mention is that a UK car here is subsequently very difficult to sell, and depending on engine size, co2 emissions etc you can end up paying a hugely inflated annual road tax - based on the import date / co2 emissions not the age of the car.
For example i imported a mercedes and my anual road tax is 550 euros per year, for the same model/age Portugueses car its 50euros per year - be careful especially with an older large engine car that you expect this.
There are lots of agents here who will help you with the process - most charge around 500euros
If you do it yourself the costs are approx 200euros +time, effort, several visits to customs / imtt/ ipo etc
Plus whatever you have to spend on your car, headlights etc to make it legal.
If you'd like any further info please send a pm.
how to do it - info copied from heyportugal
It is possible to import a vehicle to Portugal from the UK or other EU country without paying additional taxes, provided the vehicle has been fully tax-paid in your former country of residence, and you have been the registered owner of the vehicle in your former country of residence for at least 12 months.
Before embarking on this procedure, be aware this can be a lengthy process with a large amount of paperwork involved. It is possible to employ an agent to undertake this, but their costs can be considerable. This article therefore includes criteria to be met and steps to be taken in order to minimise the time and inconvenience involved.
To commence, you must:
a) transfer your residency status to Portugal. If you do not transfer your residency, then you cannot import a vehicle tax-free. See steps (1) and (2) below for details.
b) lodge an application to the Alfandega (Customs Office) with jurisdiction for your area of residence. This should be done within 6 months of the date on which your Portuguese residency commences. Your contact should be the Head Office for your area, which may involve quite a few kilometres to be travelled.
Paperwork required:
1. Original of your “Atestado de Residencia”. Obtained from your local Junta de Freguesia. Cost approx. €3.
2. A copy of the certificate of transferring your residency ( Certificado de Registo de Cidado Da União Europeia). Obtained from your local Camara. Cost approx. €7.
3. Consular certificate. Persons previously resident in the UK should request a “Certificate to Import a Vehicle” from the UK Embassy in Lisbon. All contact can be via telephone and e-mail, with the Certificate being posted to you. You will be required to provide :
- proof of UK residency for the previous 12 months eg utility bills, council tax payments or similar - its important to have bills showing right upto the day you leave England, and proof of arrival in Portugal the following day
- your passport,
- certificate of residency (see 2. above).
Cost is €85. Persons from other European countries should contact their own Consulate for details.
4. Registration Certificate for the vehicle – original + 3 copies.
5. Proof of residency in the UK (or other EU country) for at least 12 months prior to transferring your residency, eg, copies of payslips, water bills, electricity bills. Although provided in (3) above, the Alfandega will also require these.
6. 2 copies each of : your passport, fiscal number paperwork, and driving licence
7. Certificate of Conformity for the vehicle. Available from the vehicle manufacturer (this can be done prior to leaving your former country of residence). Request a copy in Portuguese and one in your native tongue; this will be crucial in assisting you to complete required paperwork. There may be a charge for this certificate.
8. IMTT form Modelo 9. Complete the details for “Requerente” and “Características do veículo”. The form must be taken to a vehicle inspection (see (9) below) and the “Inspecção” section completed. It must also be taken to your local IMTT office for their official stamp.
9. Inspection Type B. Click on Tipo B to find your nearest IPO station (like UK MOT centre). Please note that Inspection centres will not undertake any necessary works, they are inspection centres only. Prior to inspection:
- ensure your vehicle corresponds to the Certificate of Conformity eg ensure that any after-market alterations, such as wheels, are the correct size.
- UK right-hand drive vehicles will require headlights (and fog lights if applicable) altered for driving on the right-hand side of the road
- ensure that you have a Hi-Viz warning vest and a Portuguese Warning Triangle. Inspectors will check this.
If in doubt, check with a local garage first. The actual inspection costs approx. €68.
In addition, you will be required to purchase and complete the following forms from the Alfandega :
a) Mod 221100
b) Mod 211063 (for Alfandega use only)
c) Mod 221101
These cost under € 3 and are self-explanatory. These forms ask for personal details, and vehicle details which can be copied from the Certificate of Conformity.
The Alfandega will also provide you with, and ask you to complete, a “Declaration of Value” for your vehicle” and an “Authority for Consultation”.
Once all documents have been completed and received by the Alfandega, your case will be considered, and a decision sent to you in writing.
If successful, you must not sell the vehicle within 2 years (we are couble checking this as 2 different time periods have been quoted).
If unsuccessful, you may either pay the required customs duty, or take the vehicle out of Portugal. Your intent will require to be declared to the Alfandega within 30 days of their decision.
