Import a Car from Australia to Ireland

Importing from Australia to Ireland

No FTA for cars, so 10% customs duty applies, plus VRT and 23% VAT.

The VRT itself is the same CO2-based calculation used for every Irish import. What changes with Australia is the customs duty and the currency conversion (prices are typically quoted in AUD). Always budget for VRT plus customs duty plus 23% VAT when calculating your total landed cost.

Step-by-step Australia import process

• Buy the vehicle and obtain the registration document and proof of purchase.
• Arrange shipping/transport to Ireland.
• Clear customs and pay any duty (10%) and Irish VAT at 23%.
• Book a VRT appointment and present the Certificate of Conformity with CO2 and NOx data.
• Revenue assesses OMSP, charges VRT, and you receive Irish plates.

Australia Import Cost Example

For a car with an Irish OMSP of EUR 40,000 and CO2 of 140g/km (20% band), the VRT would be EUR 8,000 before age depreciation. Add customs duty of 10% on the value and 23% Irish VAT on the combined figure. Use the calculator above to model your specific vehicle.

Australian Car Imports to Ireland

Australia is a right-hand drive market, which makes it one of the most straightforward sources for Irish imports — no headlight conversion or speedometer changes needed. The most commonly imported models are Japanese-built vehicles sold through Australian dealers: Toyota LandCruisers, Nissan Patrols, and Mitsubishi Pajeros are popular choices, particularly for buyers who want a well-maintained 4x4 with low mileage. European brands like BMW and Mercedes are also available but tend to be priced higher than UK equivalents.

The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD), and car prices are generally moderate compared to Singapore or the UK. A 2021 Toyota LandCruiser Prado can be found for AUD 45,000–55,000 (roughly €27,000–€33,000). Shipping from Australia to Ireland takes 8–12 weeks, with container costs of approximately €1,800–€2,500. The most common departure ports are Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Roll-on/roll-off shipping is available but less common.

Australia Import Considerations

Australian vehicles use the ADR (Australian Design Rules) standards, which are broadly similar to EU standards but not identical. You'll need an independent emissions certificate showing WLTP CO2 and NOx figures, since Australia uses its own testing cycle. Some older vehicles may only have ADR emissions data, which Revenue may or may not accept. Budget for an NCT test (€55) and check whether the vehicle needs any modifications for Irish compliance. The VRT bands apply to the OMSP, so compare Australian and Irish prices before committing.