Importing a classic car from Italy to the UK means clearing UK customs, paying 5% import VAT on a qualifying classic over 30 years old (instead of 20%), filing a NOVA notification, and registering with the DVLA. Italian-built cars can also avoid customs duty entirely. Here is what to expect on an Alfa, Fiat, Lancia or Ferrari.
The rates on an Italian classic
Italy is the spiritual home of the enthusiast car, and the numbers are friendly if the car is old enough. A classic over 30 years old in original condition pays 0% duty and just 5% VAT. Even for newer Italian cars, the 10% duty can drop to 0% because they were built in the EU, as long as the seller provides a valid origin declaration.
| Vehicle | Duty | VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Classic over 30 years, original (e.g. Alfa Giulia, Fiat 500) | 0% | 5% |
| Modern Italian car, valid origin proof (e.g. recent Ferrari) | 0% | 20% |
| Modern Italian car, no origin proof | 10% | 20% |
On a €15,000 Alfa Romeo, the classic rate saves thousands against the standard 20% VAT. Getting the classification right is where the money is.
The process in short
- Customs declaration. A UK import declaration is filed and HMRC confirms the VAT and any duty due.
- Pay VAT and duty. 5% for a qualifying classic, 20% otherwise, on the price plus shipping.
- File NOVA. HMRC must be notified within 14 days of the car arriving, and this has to clear before registration.
- MOT or approval if needed. Cars over 40 years are MOT-exempt; some need an IVA test.
- DVLA registration. Submit the application, get a UK number, order plates.
In Italy the number plate belongs to the driver, not the car, so the plates usually stay behind. If you plan to drive the car home, you may need temporary export plates and insurance tied to the VIN. Collect the original registration document and a signed, notarised declaration of sale before you leave.
Bringing an Italian classic home?
We handle the customs, VAT, NOVA and DVLA registration under one roof, from £95. A real person, real answers.
Get my free import assessmentWhat to check before you buy
- Confirm the car's exact build date, since 30 and 40 years are the two thresholds that matter
- Ask whether the seller can provide an EU origin declaration if it is a newer car
- Keep the bill of sale and any transport invoices, since shipping counts towards the VAT
- Gather evidence of originality if you want the 5% classic rate
Since Brexit we have cleared and registered over 1,500 vehicles into the UK, including plenty from Italy. If you would rather skip the queues at HMRC and the DVLA, talk to a classic car import specialist and we will tell you exactly what your car will cost to sort.