01 — Key details
Destination port
Valletta
Transit time
14–21 days
Local currency
EUR
Available methods
RoRo, Container
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 Valletta
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 Malta.
Malta drives on the left and only permits right-hand drive vehicles — making the UK one of its primary sources for vehicle imports. As an EU member state, EU import duties and Maltese VAT apply to post-Brexit UK imports. Vehicles must be registered within 30 days of arrival.
Right-hand drive
Yes — only right-hand drive vehicles are permitted; LHD vehicles face practical and legal restrictions
Maximum vehicle age
No formal age limit; classic vehicles 30+ years eligible for reduced annual circulation tax; vehicles 50+ years may be tax-exempt
Required documentation
Original registration certificate (logbook/V5C) · VAT invoice · Odometer Certificate or EU-approved roadworthiness certificate · Proof of ownership · Import declaration · Valuation document from Transport Malta website
Customs duty
10% of CIF value (EU external tariff on passenger vehicles from the UK)
VAT / local tax
18% Maltese VAT on CIF value + duty
Registration cost
€50 inspection fee + €15–1,500+ administration and plate fees + annual circulation licence €100–749 (varies by CO2 emissions and fuel type)
Roadworthiness inspection
Yes — Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (VRT) mandatory for vehicles over 4 years old; valid for 1 year; random inspection selection system implemented December 2024
Notable restrictions
Must register within 30 days of arrival or incur €30/day fines. Only RHD vehicles permitted. EU emissions standards apply. Vehicles failing VRT have a 16-day free re-test window.
Port clearance time
30-day deadline for full registration process; practical customs clearance 2–4 working days
Buyer note
Register within 30 days of the vehicle's arrival in Malta — €30-per-day fines apply if the deadline is missed.
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 Malta export.
Tell us what you need and we'll handle everything from sourcing to delivery.
Request a vehicle