Do I need IVA approval for a JDM import in the UK?

Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) is required for most vehicles imported into the UK that do not hold a UK or EU type approval. Older vehicles (pre-1998 approximate) may be easier to approve. The IVA test covers lighting, glazing, mirrors, and other safety items — DVSA administers it.

Is import duty reduced under the UK-Japan trade deal?

Yes. Under the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA, effective January 2021), UK import duty on Japanese passenger vehicles is 6.5% — the same as the pre-Brexit EU rate. This is expected to reduce to 0% in future CEPA iterations.

Country market · pSEO

JDM cars for sale in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has no minimum age requirement for JDM imports post-Brexit (2021). Vehicles must meet Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) or pass a Type Approval process. Vehicles over 40 years are MOT-exempt. The UK drives on the left, making RHD Japanese vehicles directly compatible. HMRC applies a 6.5% import duty on vehicles from Japan under the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Age ruleNo minimum age; IVA or Type Approval required for newer vehiclesRHD permittedDuty6.5% under UK-Japan CEPA (reduced from 6.5% MFN); VAT (20%) applies.

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United Kingdom market — right now

Active listings: 47
From: USD 8,000
Up to: USD 90,100
Average price: USD 32,268

Source: JDMBUYSELL live marketplace data, updated daily. Prices in USD.

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FAQ

JDM imports to United Kingdom

Do I need IVA approval for a JDM import in the UK?: Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) is required for most vehicles imported into the UK that do not hold a UK or EU type approval. Older vehicles (pre-1998 approximate) may be easier to approve. The IVA test covers lighting, glazing, mirrors, and other safety items — DVSA administers it.
Is import duty reduced under the UK-Japan trade deal?: Yes. Under the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA, effective January 2021), UK import duty on Japanese passenger vehicles is 6.5% — the same as the pre-Brexit EU rate. This is expected to reduce to 0% in future CEPA iterations.

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