01 — Key details
Destination port
Hong Kong
Transit time
28–45 days (container, via RoRo hub or direct)
Local currency
HKD (HK$)
Available methods
Container, RoRo (via transhipment hub)
02 — The route
UK to Hong Kong.
Container
RoRo (via transhipment hub)
How it works
We source your vehicle from UK auctions or dealers
Full inspection, export documentation and DVLA notification
Vehicle shipped from UK port to Hong Kong
You receive all documents and updates throughout
Vehicle cleared and delivered to your door
03 — Local import rules
What you need to know about importing to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is a free port: there is no import duty and no VAT or GST on vehicles. It drives on the left, so UK right-hand drive cars are required and ideal for registration. The dominant cost is the tiered First Registration Tax (FRT), which on higher-value vehicles can approach or exceed the car's value. We handle shipping, documentation and customs coordination.
Right-hand drive
Yes — Hong Kong drives on the left; UK RHD vehicles are required and ideal. Left-hand drive vehicles are generally not accepted for registration.
Maximum vehicle age
No fixed age limit for import, but vehicles must meet Hong Kong emission and noise standards (Air Pollution Control / Noise Control regulations).
Required documentation
Bill of Lading · Original V5C / proof of ownership · Purchase invoice · Certificate of Conformity or approved emission test report · Insurance certificate · Passport / ID · Import Return (filed with Customs & Excise within the statutory deadline)
Customs duty
None — Hong Kong is a free port with no import duty and no VAT/GST on vehicles.
VAT / local tax
No VAT/GST. However, First Registration Tax (FRT) applies on first registration — a significant cost.
Registration cost
First Registration Tax is tiered and substantial: approximately 40% on the first HK$150,000 of taxable value, rising in bands up to ~100–115% on higher-value vehicles. Plus a vehicle licence fee.
Roadworthiness inspection
Yes — vehicle examination at a designated Vehicle Examination Centre is required before first registration; emission compliance must be proven.
Notable restrictions
Left-hand drive vehicles generally cannot be registered for road use. The Import Return must be filed with the Customs & Excise Department within the statutory period; failure to do so is an offence.
Port clearance time
Customs clearance is typically quick (free port); registration and examination add additional days.
Buyer note
First Registration Tax is the dominant cost — obtain the provisional taxable value from Customs & Excise before purchase to estimate your full landed cost. We handle shipping, documentation and customs coordination.
Sources
Information last researched 13 May 2026. Import regulations and duty rates change frequently. Always confirm current requirements with the destination country's customs authority before shipment. Damianos Auto Exports provides current verification as part of our export service.
04 — Ready to begin
Start your Hong Kong export.
Tell us what you need and we'll handle everything from sourcing to delivery.
Request a vehicle