# How to import a car from Japan to Cyprus

> Step-by-step guide to importing a used car from Japan to Cyprus: auctions, shipping to Limassol, duty, VAT, and registration, with a landed-cost table.

- Canonical: https://periodiko.com/import-car-japan-cyprus/
- Updated: 2026-07-05

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Importing a used car from Japan is one of the most cost-effective ways to
buy a well-maintained, low-mileage car in Cyprus — and because Cyprus
drives on the left, Japanese right-hand-drive cars work here without any
conversion.

## How much does it cost to import a car from Japan to Cyprus?

The landed cost is the auction price plus roughly 35–45% in fees, freight,
and taxes. For a typical mid-size car bought at auction for €10,000, expect
a total on-the-road cost of around €15,500. <!-- VERIFY: refresh figures against a real recent import -->

| Cost item | Typical amount |
| --- | --- |
| Auction price (example) | €10,000 <!-- VERIFY --> |
| Auction agent fee | €500 <!-- VERIFY --> |
| Inland transport + export (Japan) | €350 <!-- VERIFY --> |
| Sea freight to Limassol (RoRo) | €1,200 <!-- VERIFY --> |
| Marine insurance | €150 <!-- VERIFY --> |
| Import duty (10% of CIF) | €1,170 <!-- VERIFY --> |
| VAT (19% on duty-inclusive value) | €2,445 <!-- VERIFY --> |
| Clearance, inspection, registration | €400 <!-- VERIFY --> |
| **Total landed cost** | **≈ €16,215** <!-- VERIFY --> |

## Which cars are worth importing from Japan?

Hybrids dominate the Japan-to-Cyprus route because Japanese domestic-market
hybrids are plentiful, cheap at auction, and suit Cypriot fuel prices.
Compact SUVs and kei-class city cars also land well below local dealer
prices. Check that parts are available locally before bidding on
Japan-only models. <!-- VERIFY: confirm current popular models with a local importer -->

## What documents do you need?

You need the auction invoice, the Japanese export certificate with a
certified translation, the bill of lading, proof of marine insurance, and
your ID and proof of address in Cyprus. EU residents relocating to Cyprus
may qualify for transfer-of-residence relief on a car they have owned for
more than six months. <!-- VERIFY: relief conditions with Cyprus Customs -->

## Is it cheaper than buying locally?

Usually yes, by 15–30% for the same age and mileage — Cypriot dealers
import many of their used cars from Japan themselves and price in their
margin. The trade-offs are the 8–12 week wait and the risk of buying from
an auction sheet instead of a test drive.

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**Doing it yourself vs. using an importer.** Sourcing a car from Japan means juggling auction bidding, inspection, shipping, customs and registration. If you would rather have it handled end to end, [CarsJapan](https://carsjapan.cy/) imports Japanese vehicles directly to Cyprus. And whether you import or buy locally, check the car's history first — mileage, accident and write-off records, import provenance — with a vehicle-history service like [CarTrust](https://cartrust.cy/) before you pay a deposit.