United Kingdom: separate customs, approval and registration
A permanent import requires HMRC notification within 14 days. The NOVA process depends on Great Britain or Northern Ireland, origin and importer circumstances. DVLA registration follows the relevant tax, NOVA and approval steps. A European badge does not establish an EU-registration approval route.
No listed vehicle is represented as eligible for import. Before paying a deposit, ask your local importer and relevant authority to check the exact VIN, model and variant.
Reviewed:
Prepare before committing
- Tell your agent whether the destination is Great Britain or Northern Ireland, whether the importer is VAT-registered and how the vehicle will arrive. Agree who handles HMRC/NOVA.
- Ask which approval route applies to the actual registration history and vehicle; any exemption is conditional and does not remove other duties.
- Confirm the original registration documents and any required approval, inspection, insurance and DVLA application evidence before payment.
Questions for your importer
- Who makes the declaration and tracks the 14-day notification deadline?
- What approval or exemption evidence applies to this Japan-registered vehicle?
- What must be completed before DVLA registration, and which charges are separate?
Official sources
- GOV.UK · Telling HMRC · Reviewed 2026-10-16
- GOV.UK · Vehicle approval · Reviewed 2026-10-16
- GOV.UK · DVLA registration · Reviewed 2026-10-16
Enquire with these details
Send the stock ID or sourcing brief, destination and port, importer details, intended use and timing. Request a written quote identifying included and excluded work, responsible parties, payment terms and unresolved approvals. Freight, insurance and destination services must be specifically confirmed; an enquiry does not reserve a vehicle or confirm transport or delivery.