Good to know · Residency
Importing a US-registered car into Spain
A car bought outside the EU has to clear customs, get the H1 import certificate, pass the ITV inspection, pay the registration tax and be registered with the DGT before it can get Spanish plates.
- Why it matters
- US expats sometimes consider shipping a car they already own rather than buying one in Spain; this item flags the real administrative and tax burden before they commit to shipping costs.
- When
- Considering shipping a personally owned US vehicle to Spain rather than selling it and buying a vehicle locally.
- How long it takes
- Multi-step process that can take weeks to months depending on homologation complexity.
- Official page
- Importar un vehículo de fuera de la UE
- Last checked
- 22 Oct 2026
In the guide: the 6 steps, what to bring (6 items), the office with addresses and hours, and 3 Easy to miss lines, with every official source.
One Easy to miss, on us
For the change-of-residence customs exemption you need proof that you lived outside the EU customs territory for at least 12 months in a row before the move, and an ownership document showing when you became the owner.