Importing a classic car from Europe to the UK has always been a dream for many enthusiasts. The process, however, has become a bit more complicated since Brexit, requiring importers to navigate through various regulations and taxes.
One such example is the recent arrival of a 1993 Renault Twingo, a car that has captivated the hearts of many since its debut. With its quirky styling and impressive driving manners, the Twingo has become a sought-after classic for car enthusiasts like Nick Bailey.
Nick’s passion for the first-generation Twingo led him to import a 1993-reg model painted in Vert Coriandre from France. However, post-Brexit regulations have made the process more daunting. Importers now need to inform HMRC within 14 days of receiving the car through the Nova service, which calculates the VAT and duty owed on the vehicle.
The rules regarding VAT are relatively straightforward, with older cars attracting a 5% tax and newer cars a 20% tax. However, additional VAT on shipping and import duty adds to the cost. Importers now need to hire an import agent to liaise with HMRC, as the government stopped offering direct assistance in October 2022.
For a fee, the import agent will handle the necessary paperwork and submit the required evidence to HMRC. Upon payment, HMRC will issue a C384 form for the importer to proceed with registering the car. Cars less than 10 years old require a European Certificate of Conformity and a certificate of GB conversion IVA, while older cars will have their lights checked during the MOT test.
Despite the challenges posed by Brexit, the allure of owning a classic car like the Renault Twingo remains strong. With determination and the right guidance, importing a beloved vehicle can still be a rewarding experience for enthusiasts like Nick Bailey.
