Importing cars into Andorra has become increasingly popular due to the country's economic and tax benefits. If you're thinking about moving or just want to buy a vehicle to enjoy your holidays in the Principauté d'Andorre, here you'll find all the necessary information on how to go about this process.
Mar 2, 2024
One of the main attractions of importing cars into Andorra is its favorable tax regime. In general terms, the taxation in Andorra is lower than in other European countries, allowing for significant savings when purchasing a vehicle.
Although you must comply with certain requirements and legal procedures to be able to register your car in Andorra, once completed, you can enjoy numerous benefits like the lower cost of fuel, the low price of insurance, and the absence of cumulative pollution taxes.
Before starting the procedures to import a car, make sure you meet the following requirements:
Being a resident in Andorra: Residency is one of the first steps before importing a vehicle, since owning a car registered in the country without having legal residency is not allowed.
Vehicle approved for Europe: Approval is a necessary process so that a foreign vehicle can legally drive in Andorra. Ensure your car complies with European regulations before importing it into the country.
The process of importing and registering a car in Andorra consists of several steps, including customs, technical, and administrative procedures:
Declaration at customs: The first thing you need to do is submit a declaration to the customs authorities of Andorra in order to pay the corresponding duties and taxes for the vehicle importation.
Approval: To be able to register and drive an imported car in Andorra, you must apply for approval at the Vehicle Technical Inspectorate Unit (ITV). The ITV will assess whether the car meets the applicable technical and safety standards.
Request for a green plate: Once you obtain approval, you must request a green plate in the Commune of your place of residence. The green plate will allow you to drive for a maximum period of six months while you complete all the vehicle registration procedures.
Registration: The last step is to register the vehicle in the Commune. For this, you must present all necessary documents, such as the approval certificate, proof of payment of customs duties and taxes, and the vehicle's technical sheet.
The following are the main documents you must present during the vehicle importation and registration process:
Invoice or purchase contract: This document must indicate the price of the vehicle and contain information about the seller and buyer.
Driving permit: You must have the valid driving permit issued by the country of origin of the vehicle.
Technical sheet: This is a document containing all the technical information of the car, such as its mechanical features, dimensions, and equipment.
European conformity certificate: This certificate proves that the vehicle complies with the technical and safety standards of the European Union.
Proof of residence in Andorra: You can use your residency certificate or a registration document to prove that you are a resident of the country.
When importing a car into Andorra, consider various costs, including:
Customs duties and taxes: Depending on the value of the car and its engine size, you will have to pay a certain amount in tariffs and taxes to the customs authorities.
Administrative expenses: These include costs related to approval, the request for a green plate, and vehicle registration.
Mandatory insurance: This arises from taking out insurance to be able to drive the car. The price of the insurance will depend on the vehicle's characteristics and the insurance company you choose.
To facilitate the process and avoid complications, it is advisable to consider the following:
Do your research before buying a car: Check that the vehicle meets all the necessary technical and legal requirements for import and use in Andorra.
Don't hesitate to consult professionals and agencies specialized in vehicle importation in Andorra. This will allow you to get advice and guidance throughout the process.
If you wish to import a car from outside the European Union, bear in mind that the procedures and associated costs could be higher due to specific applicable regulations.
In summary, importing cars in Andorra can be a good option if you're looking to save on costs and enjoy the fiscal advantages offered by the country. Make sure to comply with all the necessary legal requirements and procedures so that your vehicle can drive without issues on Andorran territory.
