Importing a Motorhome from France to Ireland: Costs Explained

Importing a Motorhome from France to Ireland - Costs Explained

Importing a Motorhome from France to Ireland: Costs Explained

Bringing a motorhome from France to Ireland can be an attractive option, but it’s important to understand the costs and taxes involved. Below we outline what you can expect to pay, depending on whether the vehicle is new or used.

Importing a Used Motorhome

When importing a used motorhome from France into Ireland, you will not pay VAT again in Ireland if the vehicle has already been registered and used within the EU. However, you will need to pay:

  • VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax): This is calculated based on the vehicle type, its open market selling price (OMSP) in Ireland, and CO2 emissions. Motorhomes generally fall into a specific VRT category with a flat rate of 13.3% of OMSP.
  • NCT (if applicable): The vehicle may need to be inspected before being put on Irish roads.
  • Registration fees: Standard registration and number plate fees apply.

Importing a New Motorhome

If the motorhome is new (less than 6 months old or with fewer than 6,000 km on the odometer), VAT is payable in Ireland instead of France. The steps are:

  • French VAT reclaim: If you are charged French VAT at the point of sale, this can generally be reclaimed from the French seller once you prove the vehicle has been exported to Ireland.
  • Irish VAT: You will be required to pay 23% VAT on the purchase price of the motorhome when registering it in Ireland.
  • VRT: As with used vehicles, 13.3% of OMSP applies to motorhomes.

Summary

  • Used Motorhome: No Irish VAT, but VRT at 13.3% + registration costs.
  • New Motorhome: 23% Irish VAT (instead of French VAT) + VRT at 13.3% + registration costs.

With the correct paperwork and understanding of taxes, importing a motorhome from France to Ireland can be a smooth process and, in many cases, a cost-effective way to get the vehicle you want.

Alternative Option: Keep the Motorhome in France

Instead of importing your motorhome into Ireland, another route is to keep the vehicle registered in France under a Société Civile (civil company) arrangement. This option is especially appealing for those who plan to travel extensively throughout Europe, while still spending being able to spend time in Ireland.

  • Non-resident ownership: You don’t have to be a French resident to set up a Société Civile to hold the vehicle.
  • Cost savings: You avoid paying Irish VRT, VAT (on a new vehicle), and Irish annual motor tax.
  • No annual road tax in France: France does not charge yearly road tax for private vehicles. You only pay a one-off registration fee, similar to Ireland’s charge when ownership changes.
  • Travel flexibility: With French plates, the vehicle is legally registered in the EU, allowing you to travel freely across member states.