Complete Registration Guide: Importation, Change of Residence
Registration for Vehicle Purchase Abroad
The paperwork for registering an imported vehicle may seem like a labyrinth, but it's actually a logical process. Having all the correct documents from the start is key to a quick, surprise-free process. This guide will help you prepare everything you need.
1. Personal Documentation of the Holder
Regardless of the vehicle's origin, to register the car in your name in Spain, you'll always need to have your personal documentation in order.
- Valid Identity Document:
- If you are a Spanish citizen: your ID.
- If you are a foreign citizen: your NIE, along with your passport or national identity document.
- Certificate of Registration: Updated proof that you reside in a Spanish municipality.
2. Vehicle Documentation
This is where the process is divided according to the origin of the car.
CASE A: Vehicle imported from the European Union (EU)
(Eg: Germany, France, Belgium, Italy, etc.)
Original Vehicle Registration Permit from the Country of Origin: You must have complete documentation. For example, in Germany there are two documents: the Zulassungsbescheinigung Part I and Part II.
Certificate of Conformity (CoC) or Short Form:
The CoC is a document issued by the manufacturer certifying that the car complies with European standards.
If you do not have the CoC, we need to prepare a Reduced Technical Sheet.
Purchase Agreement or Invoice:
If the purchase was from a private individual, the sales contract is required to pay the Property Transfer Tax (ITP).
If the purchase was from a company/dealership, an invoice is required, which must reflect the VAT.
CASE B: Vehicle imported from outside the EU
(Eg: Andorra, Switzerland, USA, UK, etc.)
Original Vehicle Registration Document from the Country of Origin: The documentation with which the vehicle was legally circulated in its country.
Single Administrative Document (SAD): This is the most important import document. It proves that you have cleared Spanish customs and paid the corresponding import duties and VAT.
Proof of Approval in Spain:
In the vast majority of cases, an Individual Homologation will be required, which is the technical report issued by a Spanish laboratory certifying that the vehicle is suitable for circulation in Spain.
Don't worry if you're missing any documents or if your case seems more complicated.
Our job is to analyze your situation and find a solution. Contact us and we'll review your case without obligation.
step-by-step registration process by purchase
Once we have the documentation, this is the path we follow to obtain your Spanish license plates:
- Technical Verification: We conduct a preliminary review of all documentation to ensure viability and avoid surprises.
- Obtaining the Spanish Technical Data Sheet: We arrange your appointment at the vehicle inspection (ITV) and present the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) or the Reduced Data Sheet so the station can issue the final technical data sheet for Spain.
- Tax Settlement: We calculate and file all necessary taxes: the Vehicle Registration Tax (IEDMT) with the Treasury and the Road Tax (IVTM) with your local council.
- Final Procedure at the DGT: With all the above, we submit the file to the Traffic Headquarters to obtain your license plate number and the Spanish Vehicle Registration Permit.
Registration for Transfer of Residence to Spain
If you've moved to Spain and brought your car with you, you're in luck. The law provides a special regime for these cases that offers significant tax advantages, but requires a very specific process and documentation.
The Big Advantage: Tax Exemption
The main benefit of registering your vehicle due to a change of residence is that you will be exempt from paying vehicle registration tax. Depending on the vehicle, this can mean savings of hundreds or even thousands of euros.
Additionally, if you come from a country outside the EU (such as Andorra, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom), you will also be exempt from paying customs duties and import VAT.
Requirements to qualify for the Exemption
To benefit from these advantages, it is essential to meet a series of strict conditions:
1-Previous Residence: You must have effectively resided outside of Spain for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the date of your move.
- How to prove it: The main document is the Consular Deregistration, but employment contracts, rental contracts, or utility bills from your previous country can also be used.
2-Vehicle Ownership: You must own the vehicle for a minimum of 6 months in your home country before moving.
- How to prove it: Original vehicle documentation showing your name as the owner for more than 6 months.
3-Registration Period: You must apply for permanent registration in Spain within a maximum of 12 months of obtaining legal residency here.
- No-Sale Commitment: You may not sell the vehicle for 12 months after its registration in Spain.
How We Help You
The registration process for change of residence is complex, and any errors in the documentation or deadlines could result in your losing your right to tax exemption.
At Motor Time Service, we specialize in managing these cases. We handle:
- Verify that you meet all the requirements.
- Help you gather all the necessary documentation.
- We'll guide you through every step of the process to ensure you get your tax exemption and Spanish license plates without any problems.
Vehicle pickup services from homes and businesses
Pioneers in offering convenient and efficient solutions for vehicle pickup and delivery from Murcia to Alicante. Fast, secure, and high-quality service: Committed to speed and excellence in every transaction, ensuring the protection of your vehicle at all times.
Liability Coverage: We have insurance that supports every transaction, giving you complete peace of mind and confidence in our services.
