As a member of the European Union you are entitled to purchase a vehicle from any other member state. Indeed, Volkswagen were fined £67 million in January 1998 for preventing Italian dealers from selling cars to German and Austrian customers where the same models are more expensive. Follow this link to read the full story.

Even after this ruling, manufacturers are stilling putting hurdles in front of UK buyers. Some are even quoting 18 months to year delivery dates.

The only legal requirements that you must abide by are, to pay the VAT and to register the vehicle with the DVLA once you have brought it back into the UK.

VAT

VAT is payable within seven days of arrival in the UK. A useful booklet is available from your local VAT office (VAT Notice 728). You can also follow this link http://www.hmce.gov.uk/notices/728.htm.

Vehicle Registration

Once the VAT has been paid, your local DVLA office will be able to register your new car. As we are members of the EU there are no vehicle type approval problems to overcome.

This is a brief explanation of the legal process. If you need further information please call us on 01628 620061.