You have probably looked at car classified ads and come across some great deals abroad. Some models are sometimes cheaper elsewhere, which makes them very attractive. However, many people are reluctant to buy these vehicles outside their own country because they don't want to have to go through certain procedures. Rest assured, the administrative steps are simpler than they seem.
VAT for vehicles purchased outside Belgium
It is important to note that only new vehicles are subject to VAT in Belgium. Vehicles are considered new if they are sold less than six months after their initial registration or if they have less than 6,000 km on the odometer. In this case, the car will be purchased VAT-free in its country of origin, but 21% VAT will be payable in Belgium.
However, if the car is second-hand (more than 6,000 km and more than 6 months old) and is purchased from a seller by a private individual, then the VAT payable will be that of the country in which the vehicle is purchased.
There are no import duties on any car imported into the EU. Vehicles sold outside the EU will therefore be subject to a 10% tax on their customs value.
What steps are involved in importing a vehicle into Belgium?
First, the insured person must go to MyMinfin to clear their vehicle through customs. Whether they are purchasing a vehicle or moving house, they will then be issued with an E705 sticker. To do this, they will need:
1. The purchase invoice
2. The certificate of conformity
3. The registration certificate from the country of origin
In case of problems with MyMinfin, the customs office remains available for the procedure.
Vehicle Crossroads Bank
Next, once the vehicle has been cleared through customs, it must then be pre-registered with the vehicle database (via theapplication provided by the Public Service for Mobility and Transport). In order to proceed to this step, it is essential that customs formalities have been completed beforehand.
In order for technical inspection
Afterwards, if the vehicle has passed its technical inspection, issued in a country that is part of the EU, registration is then possible directly via WEBDIV (otherwise, the vehicle must undergo a technical inspection, which then issues a registration application).
- When moving house, vehicles that are already registered in another EU member state and have a European approval number are not required to have a European certificate of conformity. These vehicles are therefore exempt from technical approval testing.
- If you are purchasing a used vehicle and therefore changing ownership, a used vehicle inspection must be carried out. This is a "normal" appointment.
- On the other hand, no inspection is required for the registration of a new vehicle or re-registration in the name of the same owner.
Registration
These first three steps only apply to customers who are moving from abroad and importing their own vehicle. Or who have purchased a vehicle (new or used) in a foreign country and are importing it themselves. This does not apply to professionals who import vehicles for sale in Belgium.
Finally, you need to register your vehicle. The RGF Group takes care of all the necessary steps, includingcar insurance. Contact an advisor now.
