Electric vehicle (EV) ownership has skyrocketed globally, and with the steady migration of Indian residents to countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia, a new question arises: Can I take my EV with me? In 2025, governments have laid out specific customs and EV import taxes in top countries that immigrants must follow while relocating with their electric vehicles.
The tax structures differ from country to country, and understanding these policies beforehand can save time and unnecessary costs. Whether you’re importing a family-owned electric car or purchasing one abroad, this guide provides a clear breakdown of EV taxes, import duty, and rules for immigration vehicles in the top immigrant destinations.
Canada – Tax Relief and Eco-Friendly Incentives
Canada has become a popular destination for Indian EV owners due to its green transportation policies. Fortunately, the EV import taxes in top countries reveal that Canada offers considerable tax benefits to permanent residents bringing EVs.
Here’s what you need to know:
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Duty-Free Exemption: If you’re moving permanently and the EV is part of your personal household effects, you may qualify for a customs import duty exemption.
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Federal Excise Tax: Not applicable for most EVs.
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GST/HST: You may still need to pay this depending on the province.
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Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) Fee: ~$325 CAD, mandatory for all non-exempt immigration vehicles.
To qualify for the exemption, your EV must be at least six months old and owned by you before relocation.
United Kingdom – VAT and Registration Charges
In the UK, importing a vehicle means navigating both HMRC and the DVLA. When it comes to EV import taxes in top countries, the UK has a mix of import tax and VAT systems.
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Import Duty: 10% on the customs value of the EV (unless exempted via Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief).
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Value Added Tax (VAT): 20% of the total cost including shipping and insurance, unless ToR relief applies.
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Registration Fees: Varies by region, but standard DVLA fees apply.
To avoid full EV taxes, immigrants must apply for ToR relief, which exempts both VAT and import duty if the vehicle is for personal use.
Australia – Clean Car, Clear Rules
Australia is rapidly adopting EVs, and its import system reflects that. Here’s how the EV import taxes in top countries apply for Australian immigration:
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Import Duty: 5% unless exempted.
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Luxury Car Tax (LCT): Applies if the EV exceeds AUD $89,332 (threshold as of 2025).
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Goods and Services Tax (GST): 10% standard on all imports.
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Roadworthiness Inspection and Certification: Mandatory before registration.
Australia allows certain immigration vehicles to be brought in tax-free under Personal Import Scheme, provided the EV has been owned and used overseas for at least 12 months.
Summary Table – EV Import Tax Comparison (2025)
| Country | Import Duty | GST/VAT | Special Rules |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | 0% (with exemption) | 5–13% (varies) | Must qualify under personal effects exemption |
| UK | 10% (if not exempt) | 20% | Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief available |
| Australia | 5% | 10% | LCT applicable for luxury EVs over AUD 89,332 |
Tips for Smooth EV Importation as an Immigrant
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Apply for import duty waivers under personal relocation schemes.
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Use authorized shippers experienced with immigration vehicles.
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Keep documents like proof of ownership, registration, and insurance.
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Translate all paperwork to English or the destination country’s language.
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Verify roadworthiness standards beforehand.
Understanding the EV import taxes in top countries empowers immigrants to save on costs and comply with all legal formalities while enjoying sustainable mobility abroad.
FAQs
Do all countries allow tax-free import of EVs for immigrants?
Not all. Some countries like Canada offer tax exemptions under certain conditions. Others, like the UK, require ToR approval. Understanding EV import taxes in top countries helps plan better.
Is there a standard GST or VAT on imported EVs?
No, it varies. For example, EV taxes in Canada vary by province, the UK charges 20% VAT, and Australia levies 10% GST.
Can I import a used EV and still get tax relief?
Yes, if the used EV meets age, ownership, and personal use criteria defined in the destination country’s import duty rules for immigration vehicles.
What documents are required for EV import as an immigrant?
Key documents include proof of ownership, Indian registration, insurance, emission clearance (if required), and shipping invoices.
Will I need to modify my EV after import?
Sometimes. Modifications might be needed to meet EV taxes compliance such as lighting standards, metric speedometers, or safety upgrades.
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