Singapore.

Right-hand drive

Yes — required (LHD vehicles are generally prohibited from road use)

Maximum vehicle age

3 years for standard used car imports; classic/vintage vehicles must be 35+ years old

Required documentation

Inward Cargo Clearance Permit · Import declaration and commercial documents · Emissions test certificate (from recognised laboratory within 3 months, or at VETL on arrival) · Certificate of Entitlement (COE) in appropriate category · Motor insurance certificate

Customs duty

20% excise duty on Open Market Value (OMV)

VAT / local tax

9% GST on total (OMV + insurance + freight + duties)

Registration cost

Additional Registration Fee (ARF): 100% of first SGD 20,000 OMV; 140% on next SGD 30,000; 180% beyond SGD 50,000 — plus COE (auctioned, currently approx. SGD 100,000+). Total costs for a mid-range vehicle commonly exceed SGD 200,000.

Roadworthiness inspection

Yes — LTA mechanical inspection required; emissions must meet Euro VI standards; tested at VETL (Vicom Emissions Test Laboratory)

Notable restrictions

Maximum 3-year age for standard used cars. Diesel and diesel-hybrid vehicles banned for new registration from January 2025. COE availability is limited and determined by public auction — prices can be extremely volatile. Strict Euro VI emissions compliance required.

Port clearance time

1–5 working days customs clearance; 3–5 working days post-clearance

Buyer note

The COE alone can exceed SGD 100,000 — Singapore is among the world's most expensive countries to own a car. Confirm COE category and current pricing before committing to any shipment.