At Schengen Auto, we have helped many clients register their foreign vehicles in Spain, but some cases stand out due to their complexity and positive impact. For example, we provide services to help you register a UK car in Spain. Today, we share the story of how we assisted a retired Irish couple with the registration of their car from Ireland in Spain, specifically a Toyota RAV4, after relocating.
Although this case involves an Irish vehicle, the process is very similar for right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles from both Ireland and the UK, making it crucial to understand how to register a UK or Irish car in Spain post-Brexit. However, since Brexit, UK vehicles must go through customs and pay import taxes unless they qualify for a transfer of residence exemption.
The Context: Relocation and Special Needs
This recently retired couple moved to Spain to enjoy a warmer and more peaceful environment. However, they faced an unexpected challenge: the registration of their car from Ireland in Spain. Additionally, one of them required a wheelchair, making the vehicle essential for daily mobility as they lived in a house outside the town.
Initially, they attempted to handle the paperwork themselves, but language barriers and the complexity of the requirements led them to seek professional assistance. That’s when they found us and entrusted Schengen Auto with the process, choosing our VIP service to eliminate stress and hassle.
Challenges: Right-Hand Drive and Tow Bar Registration
The Toyota RAV4 was in good condition, but two key challenges had to be addressed for its registration in Spain:
- Right-hand drive adaptations: These modifications were necessary to comply with Spanish regulations. Although the couple first opted to have the modifications done by their trusted mechanic, they did not meet the required standards. Eventually, they followed our advice and successfully completed the process.
- Tow bar legalization: While tow bar registration is often not possible in these cases, we successfully managed to get it approved and registered.
Register UK car in Spain: Additional Steps Post-Brexit
The process of registering an RHD vehicle in Spain is similar for cars from both Ireland and the UK. However, if the vehicle is from the UK, additional customs procedures apply:
- Customs clearance: Since Brexit, UK vehicles are treated as third-country imports.
- Taxes and duties: 10% customs duty and 21% VAT apply unless exemptions are met.
- EU homologation: UK cars must comply with EU vehicle standards before being registered. Exceptions may be possible if registration is part of transfer of residence.
If you are importing a right-hand drive car from the UK, it is highly recommended to seek professional advice before proceeding. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure you benefit from all available exemptions.
Our Approach: VIP Service Without Hassle
We took care of the entire process, from temporary registration and insurance to the ITV inspection and all necessary documents for the relocation. Our goal was to ensure the car was fully compliant and ready before the temporary plates expired.
The couple appreciated our fast responses, clear communication, and professional handling of every step. Thanks to our expertise, we ensured their Toyota RAV4 met all legal requirements and was ready for use without complications.
A Satisfied Client
By the end of the process, the clients were deeply grateful for our help. Not only did we successfully complete the Irish car registration in Spain, but we also provided them with peace of mind during an important transition in their lives.
Need Help with register your Irish or UK Car in Spain?
At Schengen Auto, we are experts in registering foreign vehicles in Spain. If you’re facing language barriers, complex requirements, or simply want to avoid the hassle, we’re here to help.
★ Contact us today and discover how our VIP service can make the process easier for you.
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