Current Car Import Duties in Germany: Rates, Exemptions & Tax Guide 2025

Importing a vehicle to Germany involves navigating a specific tax structure that varies based on several factors, including the vehicle's age, origin, and your residency status. Understanding these import duties is essential for proper budgeting and compliance with German customs regulations.

Standard Import Duties for Vehicles

For vehicles imported to Germany from non-EU countries like the United States, the standard import duty structure includes:

• Basic Import Duty: 10% of the vehicle's declared value
• Value Added Tax (VAT): 19% calculated on the combined total of the vehicle's value, shipping costs, and the 10% import duty

This means that for a vehicle valued at €30,000 with €1,500 in shipping costs, you would pay:

• Import Duty: €30,000 × 10% = €3,000
• VAT: (€30,000 + €1,500 + €3,000) × 19% = €6,555
• Total import taxes: €9,555

Special Exemptions for Classic Vehicles

One of the most significant advantages for classic car enthusiasts is the preferential tax treatment for vintage vehicles:

• Vehicles over 30 years old: Completely exempt from the 10% import duty
• Reduced VAT rate: Only 7% instead of the standard 19%

This creates substantial savings when importing classic cars to Germany. For the same €30,000 vehicle that qualifies as a classic:

• Import Duty: €0
• VAT: (€30,000 + €1,500) × 7% = €2,205
• Total import taxes: €2,205

Resident Exemption Opportunities

If you're relocating to Germany permanently, you may qualify for duty-free importation of your vehicle under specific conditions:

• You must have owned the vehicle for at least six months prior to relocation
• You must be establishing permanent residency in Germany
• The vehicle cannot be sold within 12 months of importation

To claim this exemption, you'll need to provide documentation proving your change of residency and vehicle ownership history.

EU vs. Non-EU Considerations

Import duties vary significantly based on the vehicle's origin:

• Imports from EU countries: No import duties apply, though VAT may still be applicable depending on the vehicle's age and your circumstances
• Imports from non-EU countries: Subject to the full 10% duty and 19% VAT unless exemptions apply

For comprehensive assistance with navigating these import duties and the entire vehicle shipping process to Germany, contact our German import specialists who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.