Table of Contents
Import or Buy Locally?
Buying in Cyprus is almost always simpler and often cheaper. Left-hand drive in left-hand traffic: legal but impractical. Lower resale value for LHD cars in Cyprus.
When Import Makes Sense
High-value vehicles (€25,000+). Rare/special vehicles. Personal belongings privilege (6 months prior ownership = excise duty exemption). German premium brands 20-40% more expensive in Cyprus.
This was exactly our experience: When Import Makes Sense High-value vehicles (€25,000+). Rare/special vehicles. Personal belongings privilege (6 months prior ownership = excise duty exemption). German premium brands 20-40% more ex...
– Family from Leipzig, in Limassol since 2022
Import Process
Ship: RoRo €1,200-1,800 or container €2,000-3,000, 2-4 weeks. Customs clearance at Limassol port. Excise Duty: 0-50% based on CO2 (can be €3,000-8,000). MOT inspection: €35. Headlight adjustment for left-hand traffic.
The Alternative: Buy in Cyprus
Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai dominate – parts cheap and everywhere. Used on Bazaraki.com: Toyota Corolla €10,000-15,000. Right-hand drive, immediate use, no import bureaucracy.
Importing a Car to Cyprus
Locations: Limassol
Topics: Import or Buy Locally?, When Import Makes Sense, Import Process
CMC Practical Tip
When Import Makes Sense High-value vehicles (€25,000+).
Frequently Asked Questions
No – LHD is legal. But impractical for overtaking and roundabouts. Many sell their LHD after 1-2 years.
Import tax based on CO2: 0-50% of vehicle value. Personal belongings exemption if owned 6+ months before move.
Shipping 2-4 weeks. Customs 1-5 days. Registration 1-2 weeks. Total: 4-6 weeks.
80% of cases: buy locally. Import only worthwhile for high-value vehicles with personal belongings privilege.
How CMC Supports You
At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.
As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.