Planning to import your car or motorbike into Cyprus in 2025?
If you’re relocating from the UK to Cyprus and wondering whether to take your car or motorbike with you, you’re not alone. It’s a question many families ask during the moving process. And at Central Moves Ltd, we’ve helped hundreds of clients ship vehicles safely to Cyprus as part of a smooth, well-planned international move.
So is it worth it? What’s involved? And how do you avoid getting caught out by customs rules, fees, or delays?
This guide walks you through everything you need to know in 2025 . whether you’re planning a permanent move or just want to bring your vehicle over temporarily.
Why UK Families Are Bringing Their Vehicles to Cyprus
- You’ve invested in a good car or motorbike and don’t want to sell it for less than it’s worth
- Vehicles in Cyprus can be expensive, especially for right-hand-drive models
- You know your vehicle’s history, it’s safer and more reliable than starting over
- You want the flexibility of having your own transport, especially if you’re settling outside major cities
Option 1: Permanently Importing a Vehicle to Cyprus
If you’re moving permanently, you may be able to import your car or motorbike tax-free, under the transfer of residence exemption.
Here’s what that means:
To qualify for customs and VAT relief, you must:
- Have owned and used the vehicle in the UK for at least 12 months before moving
- Be transferring your main residence to Cyprus (you’ll need to prove this)
- Import the vehicle within six months of arriving
- Agree not to sell the vehicle in Cyprus for at least 12 months
If approved, you’ll be exempt from:
- Import duty
- Excise duty
- VAT
Central Moves Tip: If you’re moving with a partner or spouse, and you each own a vehicle, you may both qualify separately — but only once per person.
Option 2: Temporarily Importing a Vehicle to Cyprus
Not moving permanently yet? You can temporarily import your vehicle for up to 6 months in any 12-month period.
This is great for:
- Digital nomads or remote workers testing life in Cyprus
- Families who want their car while getting settled
- Holiday home owners
Here’s what to know:
- You won’t pay duties or VAT during temporary use
- You must carry Form C.104O in your vehicle at all times
- Your vehicle can’t be used beyond 6 months without formal registration
- After 6 months, you’ll either need to export it or switch to permanent import
Don’t overstay your allowance — Cyprus Customs can fine or seize vehicles if rules are breached.
Documents You’ll Need (Permanent Import)
It’s not complicated if you prepare properly. For a smooth process, gather:
- Form TOM 6 – Completed by a licensed technician in Cyprus
- Form TEL 72A – Issued by Cypriot Customs at the port of entry
- V5C logbook (UK vehicle registration)
- Original purchase invoice or proof of value
- Passport and proof of residency transfer
- UK driving licence and insurance certificate
- Shipping paperwork (Bill of Lading, packing list, etc.)
For motorbikes, the same process applies. Don’t forget your helmet when you ship — surprisingly common.
How Central Moves Can Help
Shipping a vehicle sounds daunting — but it doesn’t have to be. At Central Moves Ltd, we coordinate the entire process so you don’t have to chase paperwork or worry about compliance.
Here’s how we help:
1. Personal Pre-Move Survey
We assess your situation, route, timing, and what paperwork you’ll need based on your vehicle and location.
2. Vehicle Transport Options
Whether you’re shipping a family car, classic motorbike, or even a van, we offer containerised vehicle transport and part-load services to save costs.
3. Packing & Protection
We ensure your car or bike is safely secured and protected during loading, transport, and unloading in Cyprus.
4. Customs Clearance Support
No guessing games — we handle the documentation and liaise with local Cypriot customs on your behalf.
5. Short- or Long-Term Storage
Need time to settle in? We offer secure storage solutions both in the UK and in Cyprus, so your vehicle is safe until you’re ready.
Trends in 2025: What We’re Seeing
- More families are choosing to ship their own vehicle rather than buy locally
- We’ve seen a spike in part-load removals that include household goods and a car or bike
- The temporary import option is growing in popularity with families moving in stages
- Vehicle transport to Cyprus is now easier and faster than in previous years
Final Thoughts: Should You Ship Your Vehicle?
If your car or motorbike is in good condition and suits your lifestyle, then yes — it’s absolutely worth bringing it with you. It saves time, money, and stress once you’re on the island. And with the right removals company handling the process, it’s surprisingly straightforward.
Talk to the Cyprus Relocation Experts
With decades of experience moving families across Europe, Central Moves Ltd is your trusted partner for full-service relocations to Cyprus — including vehicle transport.
We’ll guide you through every step — and make sure nothing gets lost in translation.
Contact Central Moves Ltd today to request your free quote and expert advice.
Call us on 020 8892 8931
Visit our Removals to Cyprus page to learn more.