How to Import a Car from Germany to Spain: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Import a Car from Germany to Spain: Step-by-Step Guide
Importing a car from Germany to Spain remains a popular and economically justified option, especially for buyers looking for high-quality vehicles at more competitive prices. German cars from brands such as Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Volkswagen are known for their comfort, reliability, and safety. However, the process requires careful planning and compliance with all formal requirements.
A vehicle can be purchased from private sellers, dealerships, car markets, or online platforms. To avoid risks related to hidden technical defects or legal issues, many buyers choose to work with professionals. CAR-CHECK24 provides a full range of services — from vehicle selection and price negotiations to technical inspections and complete document handling.
Many people are concerned about complex paperwork, but in reality, importing a car from Germany to Spain is relatively straightforward since both countries are members of the European Union. After the vehicle is brought into Spain, the required taxes must be paid, a technical inspection completed, the vehicle registered, and Spanish license plates issued. The total cost depends on the age of the vehicle, its technical specifications, CO₂ emissions, and length of use.
When selecting a vehicle, VAT regulations must be taken into account. If the car is classified as new under EU rules (less than 6 months since first registration or less than 6,000 km mileage), VAT must be paid in Spain. If the vehicle is older and has higher mileage, double taxation does not apply.
Special attention should be paid to the Certificate of Conformity (COC). This document should be requested from the seller at the very first stage, as registration in Spain is not possible without it.
After import, the following mandatory payments apply: the registration tax (Impuesto de Matriculación), which depends on CO₂ emissions; the annual municipal vehicle tax (Impuesto sobre Vehículos de Tracción Mecánica); and the state registration fee with the DGT. The vehicle must then pass the mandatory technical inspection (ITV), after which the Spanish technical registration document (Ficha Técnica) is issued.
Cost example as of 2024 for a BMW 330d (model years 2022–2024):
ITV inspection with issuance of the Ficha Técnica — approximately €100 (this procedure differs from a regular periodic inspection and is not available at all stations); DGT registration fee — approximately €100; municipal vehicle tax — around €40–50 depending on the region; license plates — approximately €40; assistance services for submitting documents to tax authorities and the DGT — approximately €130.
The registration tax amounted to 4.75% of the vehicle’s value, as the CO₂ emissions were between 120 and 160 g/km, confirmed in the COC and recorded in the Spanish technical document.
Customs clearance for vehicles imported from Germany to Spain is limited to taxes and fees, as no customs duties apply within the EU. The process is relatively quick, and with the right vehicle choice, importing a car from Germany remains a cost-effective and sensible decision.