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.