Importing a Car to the Netherlands

Bringing your car to the Netherlands might seem daunting, but the process is manageable with preparation. In the Netherlands, all cars—whether new or used—are subject to a one-time BPM tax (Belasting van Personenauto’s en Motorrijwielen), often referred to as a “luxury tax”. However, for expats relocating to the Netherlands, you can potentially avoid BPM if you bring your car as part of your household goods. Here’s how.

Key requirements for BPM exemption

• You are the legal owner of the car: Lease or company-owned vehicles are not eligible.
• You’ve owned the car for at least six months prior to your move: Ownership must be established before your registration in the Netherlands.
• The car is part of your personal belongings: The vehicle must be imported as part of your household goods during your relocation.

Important: Once imported, you cannot sell or rent out the car for 12 months after its registration. Family members may use it, but selling within the first year triggers retroactive BPM payment.

The import process

Importing and registering a car in the Netherlands involves several steps:

Transporting the vehicle

You can drive the car yourself, use a transport company, or opt for car trailers. Ensure you have a valid Green Card (EU car insurance) for border crossings. If the process takes longer, get a Green Card valid for 2–3 months.

Proof of registration in the Netherlands

Obtain a registration certificate (Uittreksel BRP) from your local municipality to confirm your BSN and address.

Customs declaration

Arrange customs clearance through brokers who declare the car as personal belongings. Examples of brokers include Goenee, Sintrex, and Hemtex. Costs vary from €90 to €1,200, depending on services provided.

Technical inspection (RDW)

Schedule an inspection with the RDW to ensure the car meets Dutch safety and environmental standards. Bring customs clearance documents, proof of ownership, and CO2-related certificates.

Pro Tip: If CO2 details are missing, request them from the manufacturer or dealer. Otherwise, the RDW uses default emissions data, which may increase BPM calculations.

Tax declaration

Submit BPM paperwork to the Dutch tax office. Tools like Autotelex.nl can help calculate BPM costs for around €20.

Vehicle registration certificate

Once approved by the RDW, you’ll receive a plastic registration card with your license plate number. Use this to print plates at authorized shops (find locations here).

Insurance

To complete the process, purchase car insurance. Coverage options include:

• WA (Third-party liability): Mandatory basic coverage.
• WA + Limited Casco: Covers theft, fire, and vandalism.
• WA + Full Casco (Comprehensive): Includes self-inflicted damages.

Platforms like Independer.nl can help you compare rates. Some insurers honor no-claims histories from your home country, reducing premiums.

Documents you’ll need

• Appointment confirmation with RDW, including a barcode.
• Customs clearance documents (e.g., Toestemming Tot Wegvoering).
• Vehicle registration documents (originals and translations if necessary).
• Passport.
• BRP extract confirming your BSN and address.

Note: Verify whether your car requires an APK inspection (mandatory for cars older than three years). This may not always be part of the RDW process.

Final thoughts

While importing a car to the Netherlands may seem complex, thorough preparation makes the process straightforward. Following these steps ensures a smooth transition for your vehicle. For further information, contact the RDW, your local municipality, or trusted customs brokers.