A Car in Greece: Bring your Own or Buy Locally?

Next comes the calculation of taxes and fees, which differ depending on whether the vehicle comes from an EU country or a non-EU country. For vehicles purchased from another EU member state, no customs duties are charged. VAT (24%) is generally payable in Greece only if the vehicle is considered new for VAT purposes (i.e., it is less than six months old or has travelled fewer than 6,000 km). In addition, a Registration Fee (Registration Tax) must be paid. The amount depends on factors such as the vehicle's taxable value, CO₂ emissions, age, and other characteristics used by the Greek authorities to calculate the tax.

If the vehicle is imported from a non-EU country, customs duties may also apply. For passenger cars, a customs duty of 10% is common, although the exact rate can vary depending on the vehicle's origin and any applicable trade agreements or exemptions. VAT and the Registration Fee are also payable. In all cases, imported vehicles must be registered in Greece, issued Greek registration plates, and comply with the relevant technical inspection requirements before they can be legally driven on Greek roads.

In terms of cost, the transport and shipping process can be expensive. Transport costs typically range from €500 to €1,500, depending on the country of origin and the shipping method. For imports from non-EU countries, the combined cost of customs duties, VAT, registration taxes, and related fees can represent a significant percentage of the vehicle's value. For example, a vehicle valued at €20,000 could incur several thousand euros in additional taxes and charges, depending on its specifications and the applicable tax treatment. The cost can increase further for vehicles with higher CO₂ emissions, as registration taxes may be higher.

By contrast, when purchasing a new car in Greece, there are no customs procedures or import duties for the buyer. VAT is already included in the advertised retail price, and the price charged by Greek dealerships generally includes the Registration Fee and other applicable taxes. Depending on the model and equipment level, many new small cars are priced roughly in the €18,000–€25,000 range. New vehicles also come with a manufacturer's warranty, access to local service networks, and, in many cases, financing or trade-in options.

To register a vehicle in Greece and obtain Greek registration plates, the owner will generally need a Greek tax number (AFM) and proof of address or residence, along with the other required registration documents.

If the car you want to bring is new, has low emissions and was bought at a low price abroad, it may be economically advantageous to bring it, especially if it comes from an EU country and is not subject to customs duties. But if the car is older, has high CO2 emissions, or comes from a third country, then the costs go up significantly and the process becomes more complicated.

For the average buyer who wants security, predictability, and a guarantee, buying a new car from the Greek market is usually the most advantageous and practical solution.

In any case, before you decide, it is important to consult a legal representative or accountant to accurately calculate your costs and obligations. Sometimes, the sentimental value of a car or special needs may outweigh the cost. But if we consider pure financial aspects, for most people, the answer is clear: It is preferable to buy your new car in Greece.

Disclaimer: The article is based on current information found in reliable sources.