Bringing Over UK Vehicle

We did it (twice) in 2019.

The authorities needed copies of (a) the car's UK docs (b) the matriculation report from the ITV centre, (c) our passports, (d) our Residency cards (TIEs nowadays) and (e) our padrons.

So NO, we didn't show bank/HMRC details but YES we did prove that we had moved here.

There used to be a rule whereby the tax you need to pay is determined by the length of time between signing on the padron and presenting the car for "import". I don't know if that still applies post-Brexit.

It usually takes a year or two (after you gain Residencia/TIE) before you deal with the income tax/HMRC issue - the process is quite drawn out - so that doesn't seem to be a helpful request.

Many UK banks will no longer let you keep a UK account unless you keep a UK address, so depending on your circumstances, that doesn't sound helpful either. 

I received incorrect advice from Car Registrations Spain, as they told me that I would need to pay something like 'Spanish Car Registration Tax', which was based on the value of my vehicle, allowing for depreciation; and also emissions.

I subsequently found that, in most cases, if you bring your car as part of a permanent move of residence, you don't need to pay this tax. I would suggest you check this.

Ultimately, I chose to sell my car in the UK and buy a replacement here, as this makes driving easier & safer, along with being on the correct side for tickets at toll booths, car parks, etc.

Re- documentation - you should inform HMRC via Form P85 that you are leaving the UK; and we also obtained a letter from our local council confirming that we were no longer registered for council tax at our address in the UK - which helps proving that you don't need to pay any import tax or IVA on your belongings that you bring with you.

Hope this helps!

Hi Rich, 

Thanks for this. The email I had from Car Registrations Spain did state that I would be exempt this tax if we were moving to Spain for re-location so they must have updated their info.

This is extremely helpful, was unaware of the requirement for a P85. I can get that sorted when I finally get an address in Spain,

Thanks for the great advice !! :)

Does anyone know how long you can keep your UK registered car in spain before you have to either take it back or get it registered in spain?  

6 months 

You might find the following useful - I am not endorsing the information

https://lifestylegroup.es/how-long-can-i-legally-keep-and-drive-a-uk-registered-car-in-spain/