Full Breakdown of Customs and Port Costs for Importing a Car from Japan to Cyprus

When importing a vehicle from Japan, a non-EU country, the final cost includes government taxes and mandatory port charges. Below is a transparent step-by-step calculation of all expenses required after the vessel arrives in Limassol or Larnaca.

1. Customs Payments and Taxes

Taxes are calculated based on the CIF value:

CIF = vehicle cost + insurance + shipping to Cyprus

• Customs Duty: 10% of the CIF value.
• VAT: 19%, calculated on the total of CIF plus Customs Duty.

Example for a vehicle costing €10,000 including shipping

• Customs Duty, 10%: €1,000
• VAT, 19% of €11,000: €2,090
• Total taxes: €3,090

2. Local Charges and Services

In addition to taxes, several mandatory fees must be paid before the vehicle can be released from the port.

On average, you should allow approximately €600 to €900, depending on the shipping agent, shipping line and type of vessel.

• Delivery Order, D/O: Paid to the shipping agent for permission to collect the vehicle. Usually €380–€550.
• Port Charges: Charges for unloading, storage, security and other port services. Usually around €200–€250.
• Customs Broker Services: Preparation of the customs declaration and assistance with the clearance process. Usually €100–€200.

Estimated Total Costs

If the vehicle, including shipping, costs €10,000, the additional expenses in Cyprus will be approximately:

ExpenseEstimated amount

Customs Duty, 10%

€1,000

VAT, 19%

€2,090

Delivery Order, D/O

€550

Port Charges

€200

Customs Broker Services

€100

TOTAL ADDITIONAL COSTS

€3,940

Important Restriction

Under Cyprus regulations, used passenger vehicles imported from Japan or another non-EU country may only be imported if no more than five years have passed since the date of first registration.

This calculation is provided for general guidance only. The exact amount will depend on the vehicle invoice, customs valuation and the current charges of the relevant shipping line, agent and port.

Cars from Japan have long been regarded as some of the most reliable and well-maintained on the market. However, before buying one, it is important to understand the key points to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

The Japanese market is attractive for several reasons:

As a result, even second-hand cars are often in excellent condition.

Virtually all cars from Japan are sold at auction.

The auction list contains:

👉 Важно:

In Japan, the chassis number is often used instead of the standard VIN.

What you need to check:

👉 This will protect you from counterfeits and tampered odometer readings.

In Japan, it is difficult to ‘fudge’ the odometer reading because:

But:

👉 Always check the details of the auction and the documents

Японские версии автомобилей могут отличаться от европейских:

👉 Make sure this configuration is right for you.

The price at auction is not the final price.

In addition:

👉 The final price may increase by 20–50%

Although the climate in Japan is milder, it is worth bearing in mind that:

👉 Be sure to check the auction damage chart.

If you are purchasing through a company:

👉 A good broker is half the battle when it comes to a successful deal.

Even Japanese cars may be subject to service campaigns.

👉 Before you buy:

This has a direct impact on safety.

There are times when you can get a better deal:

👉 There are more offers and lower prices at this time of year.

Buying a car from Japan is a great way to get a reliable car at a good price.

But here's the important thing:

👉 Take care when buying a car — and you’ll end up with one that will last for many years.