Vehicle Legalization
Get Your Vehicle Road-Ready
Simplify Legalization with Us
Make vehicle legalization in Portugal a breeze with our efficient services. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on the road ahead.
Say goodbye to bureaucratic roadblock
Legalizing an imported vehicle in Portugal is a mandatory process enforced by local regulations. This ensures that vehicles meet safety, environmental, and administrative standards set forth by Portuguese authorities. Failure to legalize an imported vehicle can result in fines, vehicle confiscation, or restrictions on usage.
Smooth Roads Ahead
It's Time to Legalize Your Imported Vehicle in Portugal!
Ensure compliance with local regulations.
Smooth drives await on Portuguese roads!
Don't procrastinate, meet deadlines promptly - 20 days of importing the car to Portugal.
A Comprehensive Vehicle Legalization Guide for Portugal
Importing a vehicle into Portugal opens up exciting opportunities but also comes with important obligations. To ensure a smooth transition and comply with local regulations, it’s crucial to understand the process of legalizing your imported vehicle.
Unlocking the Road
National Homologation
Ensure your vehicle meets Portuguese standards for roadworthiness.
Inspection
Undergo a thorough inspection to verify compliance with safety and emissions regulations.
Customs Declaration (DAV)
Complete the necessary customs declaration to legalize the importation of your vehicle.
ISV Payment/Exemption
Pay the applicable Import Tax (ISV) or apply for exemption if eligible.
Installation of Plates
Obtain and install Portuguese license plates for your vehicle.
IMT Register
Register your vehicle with the Portuguese Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT).
Property Register
Complete registration with the Property Register to confirm ownership of the vehicle.
Vehicle Insurance
Secure mandatory insurance coverage for your vehicle.
IUC Payment
Pay the annual road tax (IUC) to maintain legal compliance and road access.
Certification of the Model 9
Obtain certification of the vehicle model by the brand's representative in Portugal.
Inspection
Subject the vehicle to inspection to ensure compliance with safety and emissions standards.
Technical Data Sheet Request
Request a technical data sheet to provide detailed specifications of the vehicle.
Homologation Request at IMT
Submit a homologation request to the Portuguese Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT).
Customs Clearance (DAU)
Obtain customs clearance for the importation of the vehicle (DAU).
VAT and Customs Duties Payment/Exemption
Pay applicable value-added tax (VAT) and customs duties or apply for exemption if eligible.
Customs Declaration (DAV)
Complete the customs declaration (DAV) to legalize the importation of the vehicle.
ISV Payment/Exemption
Pay the applicable Import Tax (ISV) or apply for exemption if eligible.
Installation of the Plates
Obtain and install Portuguese license plates for the vehicle.
Property Register
Complete registration with the Property Register to confirm ownership of the vehicle.
Vehicle Insurance
Secure mandatory insurance coverage for the vehicle.
IUC Payment
Pay the annual road tax (IUC) to maintain legal compliance and road access.
Note: If your vehicle has European Homologation, some steps in the legalization process may be unnecessary.
For Ukrainians in Portugal's Temporary Protection Program
If you're Ukrainian and registered under the Temporary Protection Regime, let us assist you in legalizing your vehicle in Portugal!
We’ve helped over 200 Ukrainians and we offer discounted rates!
Act Now!
The clock is ticking!
Don’t Wait! Meet the Deadline! Legalize Your Vehicle Within
20 Days of Importing to Portugal
What our clients say
“One of the best and most competent Tax Consulting agencies in Portugal.️”
Transparent Fee Quotes
Navigate Your Budget
Get clarity on the fees involved in legalizing your imported vehicle in Portugal. Our transparent quotes ensure you know your costs upfront, helping you budget effectively and avoid surprises.
Tailored Solutions Await!
Administrative costs not included
Please note that accompanying you to the inspection and IMT for document delivery is not included, as these tasks are typically handled by the vehicle owner. Additionally, administrative costs, which may total up to EUR 200 for EU vehicles or EUR 600 for non-EU vehicles, are not included in the fee quote.
How to Get Started
Enjoy the free time!
Embark on a hassle-free journey with Step Inside Portugal.
Here’s how to kickstart the process:
Your peace of mind is our priority.
P.S. We’ll always send the documents for your review and approval before submitting anything. 😉
Requirements
The documents you need to have in place
Owner's Documents
- Identification Document
- Portuguese Taxpayer Number
- Driving License
Vehicle's Documents
- Vehicle Registration Certificate
- COC (Certificate of Conformity) - if applicable
- Document certifying the acquisition of the vehicle by the owner (purchase invoice)
Tax Exemption Documents
- Portuguese Residence Permit / European Union Certificate Register (CRUE)
- Proof of daily life in the country of origin for the last 6 months (monthly bills for water, electricity, gas, fixed internet, tenancy agreement, payslips)
- Certificate of Residence in your last country (with start date of residence)
- Declaration of Cancellation of Residence in your last country (obtainable from Town Hall or Consulate)
- Informative Note
Free
What Sets Us Apart
Discover Our Unique Approach to Vehicle Legalization
Explore our innovative methods and personalized solutions to streamline the vehicle legalization process. With expert guidance and exceptional service, we ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for our clients every step of the way.
Expertise
Our team boasts extensive knowledge and experience in vehicle legalization procedures, ensuring smooth and efficient processes.
Personalized Service
We understand that each client’s situation is unique, and we tailor our services to meet individual needs and preferences.
Transparency
We prioritize clear communication and provide transparent pricing, keeping our clients informed and confident every step of the way.
Step Inside Portugal have been INVALUABLE.
I contacted other places when I first needed information and Step were head and shoulders above the rest – so I stayed with them and used their services throughout the whole process of moving to Portugal. Highly recommended.
Peter Chesley
FAQs
Your Questions Answered
From required documents to the process timeline, we’ve got you covered with clear and concise explanations.
What does vehicle legalization in Portugal involve?
Vehicle legalization in Portugal involves registering a foreign vehicle with the Portuguese authorities, ensuring it meets local regulations, and obtaining Portuguese license plates.
Why do I need to legalize my vehicle in Portugal?
Legalizing your vehicle is required to legally drive it in Portugal. It ensures compliance with Portuguese road safety and environmental standards and is necessary for obtaining Portuguese license plates.
Who needs to legalize their vehicle in Portugal?
Any person who moves to Portugal with a vehicle registered in another country or purchases a vehicle abroad and wants to use it in Portugal must legalize the vehicle.
Are there any special requirements for non-EU vehicles?
Yes, non-EU vehicles might need additional certification to ensure they meet European standards. This can include emissions testing and obtaining a Certificate of Conformity if the vehicle does not already have one.
How long does the legalization process take?
The process can take two weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the case and the efficiency of document submission and processing.
Can I drive my vehicle while it's being legalized?
You can drive your vehicle for a limited time with foreign plates, but you must start the legalization process within 20 days of bringing the vehicle into Portugal. Temporary plates may be issued during the process.
What taxes and fees are involved in vehicle legalization?
The main costs include Vehicle Registration Tax (ISV), inspection fees and administrative fees for registration and issuance of license plates. Value Added Tax (VAT) and customs duties may be applicable for non-EU vehicles.
How is the Vehicle Registration Tax (ISV) calculated?
The ISV is calculated based on the vehicle’s engine capacity, CO2 emissions, and age. There are online calculators provided by the Portuguese Tax Authority to estimate the tax.
Are there any exemptions for vehicle legalization?
Yes, certain exemptions apply, such as individuals moving to Portugal if some conditions are met.
How can your service help with vehicle legalization?
Our service provides comprehensive assistance including:
• Guidance on required documentation.
• Help with customs declarations and tax calculations.
• Scheduling and preparing for vehicle inspections.
• Handling all administrative processes with IMT and other authorities.
• Ensuring compliance with all regulations to avoid delays and fines.
How can I get started with your vehicle legalization service?
You can get started by contacting us through our website, phone, or email. Our team will provide an initial consultation to assess your needs and guide you through the next steps.